Auto Channel 42

ISSUE 42 DECEMBER 2021

THE VOICE OF THE NEW ZEALAND AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY

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Guernet’s revolution in truck tyre changing THE GUERNET TYREBOX HAS SECURED 80 PERCENT OF THE MOBILE TRUCK TYRE-CHANGING MOBILE MARKET IN EUROPE. NOW IT’S HITTING THE RUBBER HERE arter’s Tyres is setting up five trucks and vans with the new Guernet Tyrebox tyre changers and fleet service trainer Mike Guard says the new gear is “a game changer on the body”.

Carter’s Tyres’ Rodger Puttick manages a fleet of 240 tyre trucks, both Carter’s and franchisees’ vehicles, providing planned tyre changes at truck bases around the country, as well as puncture repairs. It will be a surprise to many familiar with the effort involved in changing passenger car tyres that most truck tyres are changed manually, using levers. And the bead is broken with hefty blows from a big hammer.

The firm’s existing fleet of tyre trucks carry air compressors but they are just fired up to inflate the new tyres.

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RECORDS TUMBLE “The Tyrebox system is faster, and the hydraulics take a lot of the physical effort out of the

operation, which also extends the service life of our servicemen in the field,” says Rodger. “We gave the first truck to one of our best guys and immediately he did 30 tyres in a day instead of 20 — and he didn’t fall asleep on the way home. The next day he did 50.”

Trainer Mike, who has done 17 years in fleet service, says the family-owned business wants to look after its top staff. “I’ve had people start, go off for smoko and never come back.”

Just recently, says Mike, one of their top technicians said he was thinking of packing it in. “We gave him this and he said he could do another five years,” grins Mike. “And probably more after that.”

He says investing in new gear freshens everything up for experienced staff and increases their interest “and they realise they are not going to be fatigued”.

Mike admits there was some scepticism. Some

CONTINUED ON PAGE 4

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Contents

From the Ed.

28 New mobile truck tyre machine

o New Zealand is about to lose Marsden Point Oil Refinery which, let’s not forget, is the country’s only oil refinery, and has been since it was built in 1961.

The Refining NZ board decided there was more money in importing fuel instead. They said profit margins in refining had become too slim, even though some projections had said profitability would increase again in a few years’ time.

Concerns about the nation’s fuel security and exposure to a highly volatile international market, let alone the loss of 240 jobs in an area already short of them, did not deter them. Market forces are all well and good, but they are poor at taking into account factors that haven’t shown up on the balance sheet.

Apparently, energy and resources minister Megan Woods was looking at options to save this strategic asset but could not get enough support from cabinet colleagues. It’s concerning that the normal business of government and pressures growing in many other sectors appear to be getting scant attention, while the tight circle around the prime minister remains fixated on Covid.

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1 and 4

Dirty Steve cleans up

8

Smokers make a comeback

10

Ryco innovation rewarded

12

Why are turbos like tyres?

18

Car News

20

Haynes manuals and a digital ally

24

Feature car: Well-built Challenger

28

Product profiles

40

Supplier directory

44

20 Ian Parkes, Editor

Auto Channel is distributed 11 times per year.

To receive your free copy or to change your address, simply visit autochannel.co.nz.

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even thought it would take longer, and it meant getting a class 2 driver’s licence for the new trucks which have increased in size from six to nine metres, as they also carry 24 tyres. The first five new Tyrebox equipped vehicles, including a van, are going to Carter’s best and most experienced staff who work late shifts. The main challenge now is that everyone will want one.

Importers Century Distributors’ general manager Todd Jenkins says the Tyrebox is an off-the-shelf solution and all components are built into one

simple-to-install package. Developed by Guernet Compressors, the diesel engine, tyre changer, and compressor in the Guernet Tyrebox are all designed to work together.

ALL HYDRAULIC All of the tyre changing operations, including clamping unit rotation, are hydraulically driven and it is currently the only fully hydraulic option in the market. This compressed air-driven hydraulic solution provides more torque, more reliability, and as it’s diesel powered, it can be mounted anywhere outside without the need for a power supply to an electric motor.

A 17hp Lombardini diesel engine drives a piston compressor and 120L reserve air tank. Being a simple diesel engine, the maintenance requirement is low and servicing can be carried out by any diesel mechanic. No special parts or tools are required.

The hydraulics deliver a massive 25,000 Newtons of bead breaking force — that is the equivalent of the Sice S45A in-store tyre changer, and 5500 Newtons more than the nearest competitor.

The Tyrebox comes with two 20m hose reels — one for inflation and one for air tools — however, the unit is still 100kg lighter than the nearest competitor, at 739kgs for the complete unit, an equivalent of two extra tyres in weight saving.

PISTONS VS SCREWS

Mike Guard with the traditional tools — levers

The tyre machine folds out from the truck

The key strength of the Guernet Tyrebox is the piston-type compressor, which offers greater reliability in mobile use. The alternative screwtype compressors are designed to run in industrial applications where they have 18-24 hours continuous use.

In a mobile tyre unit, screw compressors suffer premature wear of the screw due to cold starts and water emulsion in the oil. Screw compressor starts will dramatically increase water emulsification in oil, which can be carried from the sump and forced through the air lines. Mike confirms the screw-type compressors on their other trucks need frequent maintenance and rebuilds.

A piston compressor, on the other hand, is designed to be run intermittently, optimally at 60 percent use and turned on and off as required — a most suitable match for the mobile tyre changing environment.

The Guernet Tyrebox will run consistently between 105 and 170 Psi and never drop lower than the pressure required to inflate a truck tyre, which is the largest demand in the tyre change cycle.

For more information on the Guernet Tyrebox, contact Century Distributors on 04 567 1405.

Mike checks tread depth digitally

The bead-breaking hammer

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Auto Channel Issue #42 December 2021

GREAT RANGE TO SUIT MOST MAKES AND MODELS

Air Filters

Oil Filters

Cabin Filters

Fuel Filters

Wipers & Optikleen

PPE

Brakes

4x4 Service Kits

Coolant

Drive Belts

Spark Plugs

Batteries

Bulbs

Chemicals

Oils

We have a great range of quality servicing parts at competitive prices

Available from: Your local Holden & GM Trade Parts Outlet

www.gmtradeparts.co.nz

www.acdelco.co.nz

Tested to extremes — the next-gen Ranger’s punishing path to customers TESTING A ROAD CAR IS RIGOROUS. TESTING A VEHICLE DESIGNED TO ALSO HANDLE OFF-ROAD CONDITIONS, FROM THE MUDDIEST JUNGLE AND ROCKIEST MOUNTAIN TRACKS TO BAKING DESERT OR FREEZING TUNDRA, CALLS FOR NEXT-LEVEL CHALLENGES ord’s global team of development engineers doesn’t pull any punches when it comes to testing the next-generation Ranger’s toughness and durability. After all, they need to deliver a truly global pick-up that is up for the challenge across 180 markets.

Built from the ground up to be the toughest, smartest, most versatile, and most capable Ranger ever, the truck is being subjected to more physical and virtual testing than ever before. The next-generation truck will be an all-new model based on the new Ford Bronco platform. It had yet to debut as this issue went to press, but Ford Europe was due to reveal the new model in late November.

“Earning a Built Ford Tough status is not something we take lightly,” says John Willems, Ford Ranger’s chief programme engineer. “Every part of the next-generation Ranger was tested to the same standards that we demand of every Ford vehicle.”

The next-gen Ford Ranger is being put through its paces on some of the toughest terrain around the world to not only ensure it’s capable and customer ready, but that it also meets Ford’s own quality, reliability, and durability standards.

“It’s important that our customers are able to rely on Ranger to deliver years of dependable service,” says Willems. “So we’ve gone to great lengths to subject next-gen Ranger to extreme tests —

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Auto Channel Issue #42 December 2021

stressing it much more than a typical consumer would — to help ensure it is ready to face everything life throws at it.

“Whether it’s tackling muddy bush tracks, coping with the rigours of extreme tropical weather, towing over alpine passes, or enduring temperatures of more than 50°C, Ranger has to do it all.”

So far, next-generation Ranger testing has covered around 10,000km of desert driving — the equivalent of 1,250,000km of customer driving — and the equivalent of 625,000km of off-road testing at maximum load capacity. Testing is continuing around the world. But even before the road and off-road testing, Ford’s engineers subjected nextgen Ranger to thousands of hours of computer simulations and thousands more physical simulations in labs, covering aerodynamics as well as component and structure durability.

“Computer simulations have helped us speed up development, while lab testing has helped us refine and test specific components, but there really is no replacement for real-world testing to really see how it stands up to years of customer use,” Willems says.

This rigorous testing mimics a variety of realworld scenarios customers might put their pick-up through and it takes place at Ford facilities across the world to ensure next-gen Ford Ranger meets the needs of customers in more than 180 markets.

Packing a lifetime’s use into a test time frame means some of these tests are deemed too rigorous for humans to endure. In those cases, computer simulations and robotics take the place of people in tests that include the extreme ‘squeak and rattle’ rig in which the pick-up’s suspension and whole body is exposed to punishing test cycles that are repeated 24/7.

“Our job as engineers is to translate the customer experience insights into a clear product definition brief for the engineering group, which becomes the absolute reference for engineers. This is particularly important for the Ranger, given we are developing it to be sold across the globe,” says Willems.

PEACE OF MIND

WITH FORD GENUINE PARTS EcoSport TRADE PRICE1

GETGENUINE POINTS2

PART NUMBER

PART

GN1Z3078B

Right front lower arm

$

120

180 pts

GN1Z3079B

Left front lower arm

$

120

180 pts

CN1Z5K484C

Front sway bar link

$

43

64 pts

ACPZ1215A

Front wheel bearing

$

71

106 pts

ACPZ1104N

Rear hub/bearing assembly

$

218

327 pts

3M5T13480AC

Brake light switch (to 9/17)

$

20

30 pts

GL3T9G854BA

Brake light switch (from 9/17)

$

26

39 pts

AB3914A664AC

Rotary coupling - clock spring (to 9/17)

$

210

315 pts

H1BT14A664AB

Rotary coupling - clock spring (from 9/17)

$

177

265 pts

CN153A500BC

Steering rack (1.5L)

$ 1,146

1,719 pts

8V513C367AA

Tie rod end right

$

85

127 pts

8V513C437AA

Tie rod end left

$

95

142 pts

AV6Z10346Y

Alternator (1.5L)

$

367

550 pts

CV6T10300FA

Alternator (1.0L)

$

411

616 pts

BK3Z19805B

Heater fan motor

$

157

235 pts

CN1119E624AA

Heater fan resistor

$

170

255 pts

AE8Z1S177A

Axel seal

$

40

60 pts

H2MZ1V125L

Front brake rotor

$

97

145 pts

Call your local Ford dealer today 0800 FORD NZ (0800 367 369) Prices are recommended only and are net after discount and exclude GST. Recommended prices were correct at the time of printing. 2 GetGenuine reward points are awarded only to trade customers registered under the GetGenuine GetRewards Programme. Some exclusions apply. Images shown are example parts only. For full warranty terms and conditions ask your authorised Ford Dealer. Promotion ends 31 December 2021.

1

Get Dirty Steve to clean DIRTY STEVE IS KEEN TO CLEAN UTES, 4WDS, SUVS, CARS, MOTOR HOMES/ RVS, DIRT BIKES, JET SKIS, AND BOATS he new Dirty Steve range of automotive and marine cleaning products includes a Foaming Wash, Foaming Degreaser and, for boat owners, a marine Engine Flush Salt Elimination wash.

As Dirty Steve gets to grips with the muckiest jobs, it starts to smell surprisingly good and, while it’s hard at work, the operator can think of more pleasant things and enjoy the scent of bananas, strawberries, or peppermint.

Dirty Steve is all about making those tough cleaning jobs less of a chore after a tiring day on the water, blasting dirt bike trails, slamming through muddy off-road tracks, or just on a backroads family road-trip.

“Dirty Steve cleaning solutions are specially formulated and rigorously tested by the Dirty Steve team to cater for the many adventurous journeys Kiwis take,” says Tim Paterson, national sales manager for distributors Griffiths Equipment.

“Dirty Steve is formulated with some incredible ingredients to make vehicle or craft surfaces sparkle and, in the case of the marine flush, to purge the boat engine of salt and other contaminants to prolong its life and maintain top performance.

Importantly, the detergents used in all Dirty Steve products are also biodegradable.”

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The team at Dirty Steve says their Banana Foaming Wash is engineered specifically for use on marine vessels and is great for removing salt, along with prevention and general maintenance washing of any craft, as well as land vehicles. It also leaves behind a ceramic (hydrophobic) layer of protection.

Everyone knows it’s bad luck to take bananas out on a boat, but it’s fine to wash it with them afterwards.

When it comes to stubborn and sticky oil, grease, and grime, what could be better than emerging clean, smelling of strawberries? Strawberry-scented Dirty Steve Foaming Degreaser is the perfect solution for a professional and perfumed heavyduty clean. It is particularly suitable for removing chain lube residue on dirt bikes and oil and grime under trailers and campers, 4WDs, utes, and farm vehicles.

Clever Dirty Steve has designed special

applicators that click onto a water hose for easy application of both the foaming wash and foaming degreaser.

Finally, Dirty Steve will reward a proper washdown and engine flush of water-craft and equipment with a sparkling fresh peppermint scent.

The Dirty Steve Engine Flush and Salt Eliminator, which also has its own engine flush applicator, is an ideal companion for boats, jet-skis, trailers, or any surface that may come into contact with corrosive salty sea air.

The Dirty Steve range is now available from automotive and marine stores throughout New Zealand. For more information and a list of dealers go to dirtysteve.co.nz, or visit Facebook ‘Dirty Steve NZ’, or Instagram@dirtysteve.nz. For more information contact, Griffiths Equipment Limited New Zealand, on (09) 525 4575.

ONE STEP PERMANENT

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KSEAL.COM/NZ 8

Auto Channel Issue #42 December 2021

Corghi raises the game — again — in tyre changers THE NEW ARTIGLIO MASTER 28 COMBINES FEATURES OF TWO TOP-OF-THE-LINE MODELS TO CREATE CORGHI’S ULTIMATE TOUCHLESS TECH TYRE MACHINE n 2001 Corghi revolutionised the world of tyre changers, introducing the concept of leverless tyre mounting and demounting. While other brands now feature leverless technology, Corghi’s patented touchless Smart Corghi System has a range of features that leave it unmatched, and Corghi has continued to develop this technology.

The new demounting tool head combines features found on the Artiglio Master 26 and the Artiglio Master Code, merging the advantages of the two solutions.

The key benefit of the Artiglio range and the Master 28, due in New Zealand soon, is the electronic setting of the rim diameter with auto positioning of all working tools to ensure they never touch the rim during any stage of the work process.

The turntable moves back and forth as required to ensure the correct distance from tool heads, which cancels any tension on the tyre during the mounting and demounting process. The Artiglio range has a built-in wheel lifter, all operations are handled from the control panel, and bead

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handle all types of wheels from 10 to 24-inch with a simple adjustment.

Tall cast clamps offer clamping from both inside and outside, and clamp covers provide protection for rims. Wheel lifters are also available, as well as helper arms which provide greater control, and different tools and techniques for more difficult jobs such as low-profile or run-flat tyres.

For more information see automaster.co.nz/ products/corghi-a2025ti-tyre-changer, and the new Master 28, arriving soon, at automaster.co.nz/ products/4-corghi-artiglio-master-28, or email info@automaster.co.nz.

breaking is done on the turntable with a patented automatic disc system.

The motor and even the movement of the main tool have dual speed operation to suit different operations and operators.

As well as offering its own range of six tyre machines for the most cost-conscious workshops, distributor Automaster offers seven Corghi passenger tyre machines for wheels up to 28-inches in diameter, as well as five heavy-duty or commercial Corghi machines.

Automaster’s Gary Cotterell says the most popular machine in the Corghi range is the A2025TI tyre changer. Like the Artiglio models, it has a variable torque inverter motor and a pneumatically operated tilting column, and a 24-inch turntable suitable for car, SUV, van, and motorcycle wheels.

The bead breaker features a dual-position telescopic arm and a two-position pad to handle wheels up to a maximum width of 14-inches.

A patented system on the turntable will also

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9

Sanitise with a smoking gun BNT AND AUTOLIGN’S NEW THERMAL FOGGING MACHINE MAKES FAST WORK OF SANITISING CAR INTERIORS FOR WORKSHOP STAFF AND FOR CUSTOMERS BEFORE COLLECTION he GL-900WF Smoking Gun disinfection fogging machine is a portable, lightweight solution for disinfecting and sanitising customer cars on drop-off and for collection.

The machine, exclusive to BNT and Autolign, produces a thick disinfecting fog that saturates the air and surfaces to kill germs, bacteria, fungi, and viruses on contact.

Filled with an appropriate disinfectant solution, the GL-900WF will supercharge automotive workshops’ hygiene and sanitising capability. It’s an ideal hygiene tool to incorporate in regular vehicle maintenance, providing fast physical protection against infection for staff and customers. It is just as effective in larger spaces such as public reception areas and workshops.

To use, plug the machine into a standard socket, turn on the machine, and let the 900-watt unit warm up to operating temperature — about three-and-a-half minutes.

Filled with Smoking Gun sanitising solution, the unit will create a thick fog of atomised disinfectant that cleans and disinfects space at the rate of about 56cu/m a minute. It can be aimed and triggered directly from the machine, or by using the cabled remote control. The recommended cleaning fluid is

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safe on skin and achieves 99.9 percent sanitisation.

Shut off the machine after enough fog has been created for the space, leave it to circulate and settle for five to 10 minutes, then aerate the space before resuming normal use.

The Smoking Gun is an effective and efficient tool in a sanitising strategy that will address WHO guidelines for preventing the spread of viruses and contamination.

The GL-900WF Smoking Gun is exclusively available through BNT and Autolign.

Sachs clutches for power and safety HILL STARTS, TRAFFIC JAMS, AND WINDING ROADS — PASSENGER CAR CLUTCHES CAN BE SUBJECT TO A WIDE VARIETY OF DEMANDS EVERY DAY hat is where Sachs clutch components — available through ZF in Oceania — can get drivers into gear easily.

ZF ensures reliability and a long service life from its Sachs clutches by manufacturing components from the highest quality materials, using state-ofthe-art technology and processes.

Sachs clutches are available as individual components, or as practical installation kits for simplified assembly.

However, when you consider that the service life of individual clutch components has been designed to be almost identical, Sachs clutch kits provide all relevant parts replacement required for a complete clutch service. Each kit includes a pressure plate, clutch disc, and release bearing, as well as special grease for ease of assembly, ensuring

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Auto Channel Issue #42 December 2021

that the clutch can be replaced safely, effectively, and quickly.

Sachs clutch kits are available in various combinations, including a dual-mass flywheel and the XTend pressure plate with automatic wear compensation, plus a kit with a concentric slave cylinder.

The Sachs brand is well-known for impressive performances in motorsport across the world. The knowledge gleaned from competition flows directly into the production of components used on the road, allowing Sachs clutches to deliver a longer service life and greater thermal load capacity.

The Sachs clutch catalogue numbers more than 1500 components, including clutch covers

and discs, flywheels, and clutch release systems for various applications in passenger cars, light and heavy commercial vehicles, buses, agricultural, and construction vehicles.

For more information, see www.aftermarket. zf.com/au or call +61 2 9679 5555.

AREA AREA

Ryco Filters a top 10 innovator for a third straight year RYCO FILTERS IS AGAIN HONOURED TO BE RECOGNISED AS ONE OF AUSTRALIA AND NEW ZEALAND’S MOST INNOVATIVE COMPANIES. THE PRESTIGIOUS ANNUAL LIST, PUBLISHED BY THE AUSTRALIAN FINANCIAL REVIEW AND BOSS MAGAZINE, IS BASED ON A RIGOROUS ASSESSMENT PROCESS MANAGED BY AUSTRALIA’S LEADING INNOVATION CONSULTANCY, INVENTIUM, IN CONJUNCTION WITH A PANEL OF INDUSTRY EXPERT JUDGES. yco was ranked second in this year’s manufacturing and consumer goods category among the 700 nominated organisations across Australia and New Zealand that entered in this year’s awards. The assessment measures a top innovation implemented in the past two years. Specifically, the judges look at how valuable the problem is that the innovation is solving, the quality and uniqueness of the solution being provided, and the level of impact that the innovation is having in the market. Inventium also assesses internal elements such as innovation culture, strategy, resources, and process that demonstrate a sustainable and repeatable approach to innovation.

Ryco Filters achieved second place this year for its cabin air filters. The Ryco MicroShield N99 cabin air filters are effectively medical-grade face masks for vehicle cabins.

In a world first, MicroShield N99 brings medical-grade air filtration to vehicles, protecting the health and safety of occupants from hazardous pollution, allergens, bacteria, and viruses with a fine-particle filter suitable for most Australian

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and New Zealand vehicles.

The MicroShield N99 filters outside air entering the vehicle cabin and occupants’ airways. It replaces existing coarse or large-particle dust filters with a unique integrated fine-particle filter, comprising: • An anti-viral and bacterial pre-filter to eliminate biological agents • Activated carbon barrier to remove chemicals and odours • Electrostatically charged nano-fibre filter to capture fine particles • A 360° air-tight seal to prevent air bypassing the filter Occupants experience an enhanced air quality with improved health and safety benefits, removing 99.7% @ 0.3micron viral and bacterial particles that can enter deep into the lungs.

Ryco says customers have praised the noticeably reduced-odour driving experience.

The MicroShield N99 cabin air filter range is suitable for most vehicles in Australia and New Zealand. The initial range covers more than 10 million vehicles.

MicroShield is easily fitted during a regular professional or DIY service following simple instructions with no specialty tools required.

“I’m extremely proud of Ryco’s second placing on this year’s list,” said Stuart Chandler, Ryco’s executive general manager. “The continued outstanding and innovative work being carried out within the entire Ryco business, in particular identifying and successfully solving one of the most interesting problems faced by car owners.

The development of a product that is not only easy for the automotive service trade to install, but also delivers a world-first product that enhances the health and safety of consumers when driving their vehicles in these tough Covid times and beyond, is certainly cementing Ryco as the leader in filtration solutions.”

For more Information on Ryco products see rycofilters.com.au, or see facebook.com/rycofilters, or instagram.com/rycofilters.

Efficiencies gained bringing services in-house KAWERAU AUTOMOTIVE MECHANICS SAYS ITS DECISION TO BRING WHEEL SERVICING IN-HOUSE HAS PAID OFF orkshop manager Rod Stephenson said the garage used to send tyre work down the road to a tyre shop but the team decided they might as well bring tyre changing and balancing into the business. It would add a small margin but the main benefit was in extra convenience.

“I hadn’t done it [tyre changing] before so I didn’t know what [equipment] was good or bad,” says Rod. Treadway Equipped was contacted and they assessed the workshop’s needs, recommended a Steiner ST260 with helper arm, then they handled the installation and training. One year on, Rod says he is “more than happy” with the gear and the ongoing support from Treadway Equipped.

“It was a bit of a learning curve and while it would have been ideal to have someone on the spot sometimes, once or twice we’ve called up and worked through it on the phone.”

The Steiner ST260’s large turntable with an 11- to 24-inch clamping range handles larger wheels and tyres, as well as standard sizes and smaller rims.

While the ST260 is designed for dealerships and smaller workshops looking to add a tyre-changing capability, the generous spacing between the

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Auto Channel Issue #42 December 2021

table and rear post gives the ST260 the flexibility to tackle anything on the domestic market.

Wheels and tyres up to 1.1m in diameter are not a problem. The bead breaker has adjustable width settings, and is generously wide, giving the capability to deal with wider rims, and even some agricultural wheels. The solid double box construction of the rear post prevents movement on the mounting arm and that in turn prevents scratching or damage to the rim or tyre. This feature was important to McGlashen’s hire car business where pristine presentation is important.

The optional helper arms give extra support when dealing with hard-to-handle tyres, like run flats, low profiles, or tyres that have been in place a long time. The added degree of control and care lowers the risk of damage to the tyre or rim when putting a tyre back on.

It’s literally like having an extra set of hands to hold, move, and massage a

tyre on and off the rim.

“It’s all about getting the right equipment for the customer and then making sure they get the most out of it for their business, especially if it’s a service new to them,” says Loren Bill, sales manager at Treadway Equipped.

One year on and the Steiner ST260 is still going strong, as is the Kawerau Automotive Mechanics/Treadway Equipped relationship. For more information on customised equipment solutions for workshops, see treadwayequipped.co.nz or call 0800 436 436.

WHEN ADVENTURE CALLS YOU BE RYCO READY

When your customers are heading out to enjoy some of New Zealand’s most picturesque locations, make sure they do it in comfort.

Ryco’s N99 Cabin Air Filter range is designed to exceed OE, with added seal and N99 medical grade media for increased filtering of dust, camp-fire smoke, soot, pet allergens, odours, viruses*, bacteria and more, down to 0.3 microns.

So when your customers cabin needs superior protection, be Ryco Ready.

*H1N1/H3N2 RYC2730

ST260 Tyre Changer

COMPACT, EFFICIENT, RELIABLE The perfect option for Car Dealerships and Workshops that have a tyre changing facility or need to get into changing tyres. › A clamping range of 11 to 24", variable torque bead breaker, and the option of a helper arm make the ST260 an extremely versatile machine.

Installation and training › Our After Sales Team ensures that your machine is set up and staff trained, so your business is ready to go.

OUR PROMISE:

100 ONE HUNDRED DAYS 100% SATISFACTION

If you are not 100% satisfied with your equipment, Treadway Equipped will repair, replace or refund the equipment free of charge within the first 100 days.

GET IN TOUCH

0800 436 436 treadwayequipped.co.nz

Delkor deep cycle batteries designed to power adventure WITH INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL STILL OFF THE CARDS FOR NOW, A ROAD TRIP AROUND OUR BEAUTIFUL COUNTRY MAY BE THE WAY TO TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THE UPCOMING HOLIDAY SEASON ravellers planning to hit the roads should take into consideration the importance of a vehicle’s battery in travel plans. Whether the holiday features a motorhome, caravan, or boat, having a reliable battery that goes the distance should be at the top of every holidaymaker’s plans. Delkor marine and deep cycle batteries are designed and built with travellers’ best interests in mind. Developed with thicker plates and powered by cutting-edge technology, these batteries offer steadfast power over long journeys and in all kinds of weather.

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Exploring the coastline, islands, and harbours surrounding New Zealand is a hassle-free experience with Delkor marine batteries. The M series marine batteries’ dual-fit marine terminals are built maintenance free for convenience, with no topping up of fluid required. Their wrought grid plates provide reliable electrical performance in all kinds of weather, with anchor bonding for added strength and vibration resistance. Their rugged durability is a result of the high-strength polypropylene case protecting the contents of the batteries. Delkor marine batteries effectively provide enhanced safety with the heat-sealed covers and built-in spark arrestor.

Delkor deep cycle batteries are built with recreational vehicles in mind. These batteries share many of the features and benefits of Delkor marine

GetGenuine partners with Ateco Group NZ GENUINE JEEP, RAM, ALFA ROMEO, AND FIAT GENUINE PARTS NOW EARN REWARDS n partnership with Waikato-based loyalty innovator Smart Loyalty, Ateco Group NZ is offering GetGenuine reward points to the automotive repair trade to encourage the use of genuine parts.

Ateco Group NZ is New Zealand’s importer and distributor of Jeep, Alfa Romeo, Ram, and Fiat vehicles. The loyalty programme offers GetGenuine members in the trade the opportunity to earn reward points on genuine parts purchases

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for these vehicles.

Ateco Group NZ’s aftersales manager, Guy Starling, says GetGenuine offers an added incentive to use genuine parts.

“Buying genuine parts from our dealer network avoids the risk of customers buying counterfeit parts from unapproved sources. We know that genuine parts beat aftermarket alternatives every time — they’re cleaner, tidier, and easier to work with, not

batteries, including thick plates and the ability to provide reliably steadfast current over an extended period of time. Their minimal fast recharge cycle makes them ideal for motorhomes, caravans, campervans, or any other leisure application that is used seasonally.

With summer around the corner and many families looking to hopefully enjoy returned freedoms, workshops can be proactive in helping their customers avoid having an unreliable or poorperforming battery hindering their travel plans.

R&J Batteries is the exclusive distributor of Delkor batteries in New Zealand. R&J Batteries has branches in Wiri, Christchurch, Hamilton, and Albany. Get in touch with your local R&J Batteries branch on 0800 546 000, or visit rjbatt.co.nz for more information on the Delkor range.

to mention more reliable, covered by warranty, and safer,” he says.

“Offering GetGenuine reward points is a way to say thanks to those automotive repairers who are doing the right thing by the vehicle and the customer by using genuine parts.”

Smart Loyalty’s director of automotive, Stacey Kearins, agrees.

“Genuine parts fit right first time and are supported by the manufacturer, which gives peace of mind to both repairer and customer,” she says.

“We’re excited to work with Ateco Group NZ and their NZ Jeep, Ram, Fiat, and Alfa Romeo dealer network to promote genuine parts to the automotive repair trade via the GetGenuine GetRewards programme.”

Members of the programme earn points for purchasing genuine parts from participating dealers, which they can choose to spend in a curated online rewards shop featuring more than 5000 products or, if that range isn’t big enough, they can request any reward they want. Redemptions have included spa pools, cars, engagement rings, travel, and even school tuition.

Part of the global Marque Group family of automotive technology companies, Smart Loyalty is a multi-industry loyalty solutions provider, providing solutions to New Zealand businesses since 1997. It has offices in both Hamilton and Sydney.

For more information on the GetGenuine programme, contact Kelly Burns, Smart Loyalty marketing manager, at kelly@smartloyalty.co.nz.

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Schaeffler takes its garage portal to the next level SCHAEFFLER’S NEW-LOOK ONLINE PORTAL FOR INDEPENDENT GARAGES OFFERS A PERSONALISED DASHBOARD, GIVING FASTER ACCESS TO MORE IN-DEPTH TECHNICAL CONTENT, CLEAR NAVIGATION, AND AN INTUITIVE SEARCH OPTIMISE USER EXPERIENCE bout 200,000 users from 36 countries access Repxpert portals in 16 languages. The website has been continually expanded over the past five years and has recently been restructured to make the information faster to find through a more userfriendly front end. Schaeffler makes everyday work easier for garages with the new version Repxpert 3.0, guiding users quickly to the topics they are looking for, and offering more technical content than ever before.

Extensive technical information and repair data, an overview of training courses, news, and events are available to every website visitor. Registered users have even more functions on hand. They can access the complete aftermarket parts catalogue and see all manufacturer data, and their recent activities — such as recently selected products or vehicles — and they can personalise their dashboard to show all relevant areas immediately. The revised navigation menu and the new global search function within catalogue and technical information

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quickly leads to the desired Repxpert content.

Garages also have access to the bonus programme, the complete range of repair data — including vehicle-specific repair and maintenance information (RMI) from TecAlliance — and can register for training courses.

Head of Schaeffler Repxpert Garage Services Sven Olev Mueller says the company has taken on feedback from workshops worldwide.

“Many of these we were able to implement with version 3.0 to offer our users an even better experience and, above all, more technical information,” he says.

The integrated parts catalogue continues to offer the entire product range of all aftermarket manufacturers for free and now allows for easier access to extensive repair and maintenance information (RMI). In addition, Schaeffler product data is now getting updated daily.

In the new training area, numerous Repxpert training courses provide interested garages with

How to choose the right scan tool YOU COULD LOOK AT THE MARKETING MATERIAL, OR YOU COULD TAKE A MORE ANALYTICAL APPROACH TO NARROW YOUR CHOICES everal aftermarket scan tools can perform most of the functions of factory scan tools, but even top-rated products will rarely offer everything you need, which means some workshops have opted for several scanners.

You need to choose the right scan tools for your shop to ensure that customers’ vehicles are effectively repaired, especially the most recent models where complexity continues to increase.

This means you will need to upgrade your scan tools regularly to keep up with the latest standards.

You don’t need to cover everything, however you should have a complete knowledge of the functionalities you need in your workshop.

Make a list of the vehicle makes, models, and years you work on, which will be easier if your scope is narrow, or if you specialise in one type or a few types of vehicles. Maybe look at what vehicles you don’t service? You might decide to get a scan tool that lets you service additional vehicle makes.

Find out the advantages and disadvantages of the type or category of scanner you need, such as code readers, OBD I, OBD II generic, OBD II generic

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with enhanced data, factory tools. Here are some considerations to bear in mind when selecting scan tools: Hardware: Are they compatible with PDAs (personal digital assistants), Smartphones, and PCs? Don’t forget those models that come with their own dedicated hardware.

Vehicle coverage: It’s important to know the range of vehicle makes and models that the tool is compatible with. What’s the extent of its functionality and what type of data can it produce?

Guidance/usage: Will it be easy to use or to learn how to use? What training is required, and how long will it take? What else is needed to make the scanner work?

Software compatibility: Details about software compatibility is important, whether for PDAs, PCs, tablets, or Smartphones. Operating systems like Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, and so on, need to be considered.

Ongoing support: Is there a technical support hotline available?

Regular updates/upgrades: Tools that offer

extensive theoretical and practical knowledge, such as classroom training courses, online training courses, and e-learning courses which can either be accessed directly or booked via an integrated calendar with online registration. On top of all this, Repxpert 3.0 offers more in-depth technical information that is continuously expanded, such as installation videos, step-by-step instructions, workshop tips, and help with typical fitting errors.

Schaeffler Group manufactures high-precision components and systems for drivetrain and chassis applications, as well as rolling and plain bearing solutions for a large number of industrial applications. Schaeffler is one of the world’s largest family companies with around 84,200 employees and is Germany’s second most innovative company, according to the German Patent and Trademark Office (DPMA), registering almost 2400 patent applications in 2019.

The Automotive Aftermarket division of Schaeffler has more than 1700 employees and generated sales of more than 1.8 billion euros in 2019.

constant updates and upgrades should be on your checklist. Their products will keep getting better over time.

Cost effectiveness: Think of affordability in terms of purchase price, plus regular updates/upgrades.

This is often overlooked, but testing a diagnostic tool is the best way to be sure that it’s the one for you. A manufacturer or seller that lets you demo before making a purchase is a valuable consideration.

After purchase, get to know the tool. Follow the instructions in the manual, undergo training, seek advice from experts and on forums. Then consider how to effectively market your shop’s new diagnostic know-how to potential customers.

There’s no one right answer for any workshop.

Create a decision-making process so you don’t end up by default with flashy, pricey, or cheap scanners.

Do your research and buy the most suitable one.

Eliminate the Guesswork

Take Charge and make the right choice Century Yuasa’s Battery Look Up system will help to ‘future proof’ your business by providing a complete battery finder and fitment solution for every vehicle on the market.

Call to find out more about how you can benefit.

0800 93 93 93 | centurybatteries.co.nz | CB123-3016

Why are turbos like tyres?

SOUTH PACIFIC TURBOCHARGERS OUTLINES WHY A TURBO SPECIALIST CAN GIVE BETTER VALUE AND OFTEN BETTER PERFORMANCE any turbochargers can be overhauled and rebuilt for considerably less than the replacement cost. It is also true that some turbos aren’t economical to repair, especially if the rotor assembly needs replacing. However, as South Pacific Turbochargers NZ managing director Craig Mills explains, having a wide range of quality turbos and parts in stock, or readily available from Australasia and Europe, means this specialist company can usually offer far better options than those available from the vehicle manufacturer.

“After all, vehicle manufacturers don’t make the turbos themselves,” says Craig. “Turbochargers are like tyres. Ford doesn’t make the tyres for its Ranger; nor do they make the turbocharger for it. These parts and many more like them are outsourced and simply fitted during assembly.”

Craig says turbos are designed to suit different engine models, power ratings, and emission standards but, even so, there are often a range of different turbos — sometimes even different brands — fitted to the same vehicle model in different markets.

“Again, like the humble tyre, you might have a turbo off a Nissan Navara, but which of the many

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different turbos is it? Like the tyre, there are many different types for a 15-inch wheel.” To get an exact match, Craig’s team needs the part number off the ID plate on the actual turbo (not the rego number) when quoting jobs. “This way we can give you the right price and be confident it will fit right the first time.” Or for specific needs, the team can suggest a different or better solution.

Craig says one of their core skills is troubleshooting and fault-finding. “Turbos tell us a lot about the condition of the engine. Some vehicles will log a fault code relating to the turbo, but often the turbo isn’t the root cause. We are happy to

discuss what we have learnt and we can often diagnose a problem that isn’t the turbo’s fault.”

The company dates back to 1981 and was originally set up to service large-frame turbochargers typically found in ships and power stations. Craig says marine engines making anything from 500hp to 100,000hp use turbos that can range in size up to 12 tonnes. Very large engines — often two-stroke — can have up to four turbochargers.

“We still service these large turbochargers with specialised training and tools, but we also have a core business of servicing and supplying smaller, automotive, commercial, and performance-type turbos. With a fully equipped workshop in central Nelson, we see all types of turbos in all sorts of conditions for overhauling or replacement.”

South Pacific Turbochargers is a Blackfern supplier and Blackfern is offering a draw of 10,000 reward points for all members using South Pacific Turbos during December and January. Call South Pacific Turbos on 03 545 8506, or email service@spturbos.co.nz.

Sift the sands for the remaining Parts Connection Gold Rush nuggets THE SEAM OF PARTS CONNECTION LUCKY GOLD NUGGET CARDS RAN OUT ON 30 NOVEMBER 2021, BUT THERE’S STILL GOLD TO BE FOUND IN THE SPOIL arts Connection’s Pam McNickle says that while Gold Rush nugget cards stopped being issued on 30 November, unclaimed cards can still be checked at pcgold.co.nz right up until midnight on 15 December 2021.

The Parts Connection Gold Rush promotion has run for several months for the past three years. It was open to trade customers who purchased parts from the 16 different Parts Connection members during the promotion period. Purchases made before 30 November qualified for Gold Rush cards, so customers can look up those unclaimed gold nugget cards — there could still be cash to be mined from the promotion.

“It’s been a great promotion this year despite not being able to run for the month of September due to the Covid restrictions in Auckland,” Pam says. “We have had over 150 different winners and we have given out over $100,000 worth of cash to lucky Parts Connection customers around the country.”

And others could still strike gold. “Don’t miss your opportunity to claim prizes and maybe cash by not checking your lucky nugget cards in time,” says Pam.

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Will the promotion be running again next year?

Of course, Pam doesn’t want to spill the beans just yet but she has said she has been working on something just as spectacular for the coming year.

In the meantime, Pam and Parts Connection want to recognise and celebrate the many winners among the company’s customers this year. Collision Repairs Takanini, who won $20,000 cash, and Moselle Panel & Paint, who won $15,000 cash, were

the big jackpot winners this year, but Pam says there were plenty of excited customers who also won cash. Pam personally visited the majority of winning customers around the country to get a photo and drop off some nugget treats for the whole team to enjoy.

Parts Connection is one of New Zealand’s oldest and most experienced auto parts supplier groups.

It is made up of 16 different specialist companies that all specialise in particular brands of vehicle, meaning they are experts. This iconic group of dismantlers has evolved and changed throughout the years to support the automotive industry, supplying quality recycled parts and new genuine and aftermarket parts. For all your car part needs, contact Parts Connection on 0800 70 70 40, or www.partsconnection.co.nz.

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE PARTS CONNECTION

GOLD RUSH LUCKY GOLD NUGGET WINNERS

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Car news

Polestar visible in December THE POLESTAR 2 ELECTRIC PERFORMANCE FASTBACK HAS LANDED IN NEW ZEALAND AND IS AVAILABLE FOR TEST DRIVES THIS MONTH olestar New Zealand brand manager Bruce Fowler reckons Polestar is a “truly exciting” addition to the motoring landscape.

“Across the range, Polestar 2 delivers a standard-setting level of quality, safety, performance, and zero-emission driving enjoyment.

Now we can confirm it’s also great value for New Zealand customers.”

Even at its entry point of $69,900, Polestar 2 retains the high-quality, premium components and solid driving experience that sets the all-electric fastback apart. Elements like vegan upholstery, Android Automotive OS-powered infotainment system with Google built-in, and avant-garde interior and exterior design are hallmarks of Polestar 2, no matter the variant. Constant development also means that improvements and new features can be deployed via over-the-air updates, meaning there’s no need to visit a workshop.

With a 78kWh battery pack, the $78,900 longrange single motor version has a driving range of up to 540km (WLTP). The model range is topped by the $93,900 long-range dual motor, which features a 300kW, 660Nm all-wheel drive powertrain.

Three option packages are available across the Polestar 2 range.

The Pilot Pack includes advanced safety and driver assistance features, such as the Pixel LED headlights with LED front fog lights, driver assistance with adaptive cruise control and pilot assist, a 360-degree surround-view camera, all-round parking sensors, and driver awareness including a blind spot information system (BLIS) with steering support, cross-traffic alert with brake

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support, and rear collision warning.

The Plus Pack includes premium equipment such as a full-length panoramic glass roof, Harman Kardon audio system with 13 speakers, ‘WeaveTech’ vegan upholstery, Black Ash deco panels, fullyelectric heated front seats with memory, heated rear seats, heated steering wheel, and heated wiper nozzles.

The optional Performance Pack remains available for the long-range dual motor variant only. It includes adjustable Öhlins dampers, Brembo brakes, forged 20-inch alloy wheels, and signature Swedish Gold details inside and out.

A handful of specific single options remain available, including ventilated Nappa leather upholstery (requires Plus Pack), metallic paint, 20-inch alloy wheels, and a semi-electric folding tow bar.

Polestar began as a race team created by a Volvo touring car driver. It launched its first production cars, the V60 Polestar and S60 Polestar, based on earlier race cars, in 2013. Volvo had acquired the brand but then got out of racing, which led to the creation of a new race team, Cyan Racing, still based on Volvos. It also built the spectacularly good-looking Volvo P1800 Cyan restomod.

Polestar, with new partners on board, has pivoted into electric vehicle production, launching the Polestar 1 and 2. As Volvo has already announced it will be going electric-only by 2030, the smaller and more nimble Polestar operation is almost certainly developing the tech that will power mainstream Volvos in the future.

For more information, see polestar.co.nz.

Suffering EV range anxiety?

GO HYDROGEN. TOYOTA RECENTLY SET A GUINNESS WORLD RECORD FOR THE LONGEST DISTANCE TRAVELLED BY A HYDROGEN-POWERED CAR WITHOUT REFUELLING. he Toyota Mirai was driven 1360km on a round-trip tour of Southern California earlier this year on a single tank of gas, leaving even the most long-legged battery-powered electric car in its dust.

The Mirai’s tank also took just five minutes to fill, which is similar to conventional petrol and diesel vehicles. The Mirai used a total of 5.65kg of hydrogen during the test.

Fuel-cell vehicles with hydrogen tanks are still prohibitively expensive but many manufacturers, including Toyota and Hyundai, see them as a long-term ticket to emissions-free motoring.

The appeal is the short recharging time compared with plug-in EVs, which can take an hour to fully recharge from a fastcharging station.

Plug-in EVs also dramatically slow up the last 20 percent of fast charging to protect the battery from overheating.

The Toyota Mirai uses a fuel cell to convert hydrogen into electricity and power an electric motor making 134kW/300Nm. The only tailpipe emission is water.

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Hydrogen is being touted as a possible climate change battling fuel, but it depends on the method of creating the hydrogen. Most hydrogen being created now is called ‘blue hydrogen’ that uses energy from fossil fuels offset by carbon capture. But ‘green hydrogen’ uses renewable energy sources to split hydrogen from water.

Hydrogen-powered cars are relatively new. Toyota and Hyundai are the two biggest proponents of the emerging technology.

Toyota believes hydrogen could be big business by 2030, especially in large four-wheel drives such as the Land Cruiser and Hilux.

Hyundai predicts that fuel-cell vehicles will have price parity with battery electric vehicles by the end of the decade.

Initially, the company plans to focus on trucks, utes, and vans. It aims to apply hydrogen power to every one of its commercial vehicles by 2028.

Currently only about 15,000 hydrogen fuel cell vehicles are being built every year, compared with up to 4 million battery electric vehicles, and more than 100 million petrol and diesel vehicles.

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favour of driving a car with autonomous technology available. The survey found 48 percent of London drivers would feel more comfortable if their car had technology that would brake if a pedestrian suddenly walked out in front of them.

Fiat’s survey also revealed what Brits are up to when distracted by their phones when out and about. Texting (35 percent), on WhatsApp (33 percent), using the internet (32 percent), making a phone call (28 percent), on Facebook (24 percent), taking pictures (22 percent), watching streaming services like Netflix or BBC iPlayer (13 percent), and taking selfies (12 percent) were some of the most common.

Tripping over (17 percent), nearly walking into a lamppost (17 percent) or shop window (15 percent), bumping into another person (16 percent), and tripping on an escalator (12 percent) were highlighted as mishaps pedestrians encountered due to phone distraction.

Car news

Smartphone zombies IN THE PAST 12 MONTHS, NEARLY A THIRD OF BRITS SURVEYED HAVE ADMITTED TO BEING ON THEIR PHONE WHILE CROSSING THE ROAD — RISING TO EIGHT IN 10 OF 18- TO 24-YEAR-OLDS. he survey by Fiat of 2000 UK drivers and Smartphone users found drivers had to take evasive action, such as honking their horns (24 percent), braking heavily (23 percent), and even swerving around pedestrians (16 percent) who had walked blindly across the road while on their phones.

Worryingly, almost one in 10 motorists said they had even hit a pedestrian using their phone, rising to one in four people in London.

Fiat’s research found distracted phone user incidents were all higher in the capital than the rest of the nation. More than a third of Londoners had to beep at a pedestrian (36 percent) and brake heavily (37 percent) to avoid hitting someone on their phone. In addition, 28 percent had to swerve around a distracted pedestrian. Alarmingly, 24 percent of London drivers had hit a pedestrian using a phone, although they avoided any serious injury.

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Thirty percent of drivers never check their oil

Castrol survey of UK drivers found just 24 percent of car owners say their car’s engine oil level is checked once a month, as per Castrol’s recommendation.

Castrol’s survey also found 30 percent of owners say they leave it to mechanics to do as part of the vehicle’s annual service. And 32 percent of respondents stated that they did not know the frequency with which oil checks should ideally take place.

Only 19 percent of car owners polled said that they would check the oil themselves, but only if they were alerted by a warning light. However,

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‘Smartphone zombies’ had also led to angry words (17 percent) and rude gestures (14 percent) being exchanged between the two parties.

Pedestrians aged 18 to 24 were also more likely to get involved in these altercations (36 percent rude gestures, and 33 percent swearing).

The survey also found the average Brit spent two-and-a-half hours a day on their phones — rising up to four hours amongst 18- to 24-year-olds — with just under a quarter (22 percent) picking up their phone between 41 and 60 times a day.

It’s little wonder a third said they would be in

according to Castrol, the oil warning light on most cars illuminates only when the oil reserve is at or below the minimum, and at this point the engine can already be at serious risk of damage.

A minority of UK car owners (32 percent) have never topped up the engine oil on their current car or any previous car, and 12 percent say they wouldn’t know how to perform a check on their current vehicle.

Castrol estimates that 21 percent of vehicles on European roads are currently low on oil, and are at immediate risk of damage because the oil level is at or below the minimum recommended level.

“It’s clear from our survey that there is still some work to do in making car owners aware that their vehicle oil levels should be checked regularly, and to build their confidence in doing so,” said Shailendra Gupte, marketing director EMEA, at Castrol.

Hyundai's Ioniq 7

Koreans go head to head in EV SUVs orean carmakers Hyundai and Kia have both launched EV concept cars in the larger mid-size (or big, to us) range.

Both are now strong players in the smaller EV market and both are staking out similar territory in the larger size segment.

Both feature 27-inch screens upfront, panoramic glass roofs, and swivelling seats to create a lounge-like interior, although the Kia’s centre row folds into a table making it a dining room as well.

They both feature distinctive light patterns front and rear, taking advantage of the absence of a conventional grille, but the most obvious shared feature is the pillarless design for the cabin and the surprisingly thin floors, considering they house battery packs.

They both feature recycled and reclaimed materials in their cabins. The Kia also boasts retractable roof rails and a camera monitoring system that replaces the conventional wing mirrors, while the Hyundai has wheel flaps that deploy or retract depending on brakecooling or low-drag requirements. The driver’s seat features a retractable control stick that hides away when not in use.

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Kia’s EV9

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Auto Channel Issue #42 December 2021

IF THE FILTER HASN’T BEEN REPLACED SINCE THE 90’S…

turn to available at

chicanetools.co.nz

trade quality // lifetime warranty

OurAuto gives workshops the inside running OURAUTO PROVIDES THE MOST COMPREHENSIVE STEP-BY-STEP WORKSHOP MANUAL SERVICE, INCLUDING HAYNES MANUALS, AND — STEP BY STEP — IT IS MAKING MECHANICS THEIR OWN SOCIAL MEDIA MARKETING EXPERTS urAuto joined the Blackfern Cooperative this year and Andrew Martin, the manager for Australia and New Zealand, says the take-up of its MotorTech range of repair information services is now going “incredibly well”. Another big reason for that could well be an OurAuto scoop — signing an exclusive deal with the famous Haynes Manuals, a vast library of repair manuals covering the world’s motoring fleet. A MotorTech subscription offers access to digital versions of the original Haynes manuals, and also thousands of searchable, wellorganised step-by-step processes in HaynesPro WorkshopData Tech, which features 100,000 highquality technical drawings. There are also tutorials, repair times, adjustment data and estimation tools, and an electronics module, with a Smart package covering all technical service bulletins.

In addition to the Haynes products, there’s access to MotorTech’s own TechOnline service, which has been the organisation’s core maintenance and repair database since 2002, its Techtimes Guide for assessing how long a job will take, and Tech Estimate for costs.

“What’s really important is how long a repair is going to take and they can customise that if it’s going to take a bit longer in an independent workshop,” Andrew says.

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HELP IS JUST A PHONE CALL AWAY Beside the bedrock online information, and a Launch-based scan tool linked to MotorTech’s resources, Andrew says OurAuto’s most valuable service to workshops is its tech advisory service available on an 0800 number. This personal technical service — unmatched by MotorTech’s biggest rival — is staffed by a team of technical experts with detailed knowledge of the largest and most comprehensive automotive technical library of 47,000 repair manuals.

“If you have trouble finding the right information, these guys know exactly where to go,” Andrew says.

“New Zealand has a lot of grey imports so if a workshop can’t find what they are looking for, they can call up and we can tell them what the nearest model in the database is that they need to focus on, which is pretty cool. It’s like having another team of mechanics who can get their repair processes to you.”

OurAuto is a VACC brand ​providing solutions to Australian and New Zealand automotive businesses.

The VACC Motor Trade Association was set up initially in Melbourne as the Victorian Automotive Chamber of Commerce to help independent workshops thrive. It now has representatives onsite in every state, and in New Zealand, and it is formally

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Auto Channel Issue #42 December 2021

linked to the New Zealand Motor Trade Association.

In addition to the VACC’s industry advocacy role and its workshop manuals, OurAuto publishes the Tech Talk magazine which is another online resource offering decades worth of technical discussion and advice on the current and legacy fleet in New Zealand and Australia.

THE FUTURE IS DIGITAL However, Andrew says one of the big issues workshops are grappling with now is the whole new ball game of marketing their businesses online and on social media. While small to medium-sized workshops are always being told it’s important, they often don’t have the knowledge, skills, people, or time to build an online presence. They can fall prey to developers who charge big fees for setting up. “Then they want to charge big monthly fees to maintain it, “ Andrew says. “It’s all about locking in a subscription.”

Andrew says OurAuto takes a different approach.

It wants to educate workshops, at a pace they can handle, about what will be important to them and why, and then help them to get online or on social media channels using digital tools that are easy to use and manage.

OurAuto’s digital team understands workshops’ needs. He says the team has built websites for more

than 3000 workshops so it knows what it is doing.

It has built a vast array, from simple to complex pages, and templates specific to automotive services so businesses don’t have to pay to reinvent the wheel. They can be customised to suit each customer’s brand and image, and different modules can be added — for example, inventory databases, and e-commerce transactions for parts business.

Now OurAuto is focussing on developing workshop-focused tools for digital marketing, which will be launched early next year.

ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE It is building a workshop-focused artificial intelligence interface and tools to manage and target local marketing.

“I think we’ve got something pretty exciting to go to the market with,” says Andrew. He says workshops can easily field up to 10 phone calls per day offering digital services, but he believes OurAuto’s track record of working in workshops’ best interests will offer cut-through.

“We come in from a different angle, rather than just trying to take people’s money.

“It’s as much about digital education as anything.

There’s a lot to learn — such as why you need to have a digital presence to drive enquiries — but there’s no point marketing to someone in Texas.

You need local area marketing, and how to put a ring of steel around that local area, and offer targeted marketing of all services.”

Andrew says workshops may not even need to know what questions to ask about digital marketing, Facebook, Instagram, or websites.

“We will be a one-stop shop for getting this sorted, and we’ll go through the whole process, starting wherever people want.”

VACC OurAuto is a Blackfern supplier. To learn more about digital marketing or OurAuto services, call Kyle on 027 455 5329. For more on MotorTech packages see motortech.com.au, or call VACC OurAuto on 0800 485 122.

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SmartClick Intelligent wiring revolutionises towing HAYMAN REESE SIMPLIFIES AFTERMARKET TRAILER WIRING AND SUPPORTS TROUBLE-FREE TOWING ayman Reese, one of the big names in towbar tech, is now reaching further into aftermarket towing solutions, introducing a smart alternative to complicated towbar wiring installations.

Hayman Reese is introducing SmartClick Intelligent wiring looms, which are tailored to each vehicle.

The latest technology wiring solutions, known as SmartClick Intelligent towing, will be included in every new-release Hayman Reese towbar.

Each wiring loom has been engineered to suit individual vehicle applications. It’s as easy as clicking together the smart plug with vehicle nodes and the wiring is done.

Hayman Reese offers a range of wiring tails to complete the job, which are sold separately.

Wiring tails are available in 400mm, 1200mm, and 1800mm lengths, as well as versions to suit RPA disable on non-CAN bus systems.

Electronic Control Units (ECUs) are available to relay the LED component of vehicle information to the towing system.

For vehicles equipped with CAN bus, but not yet supported by SmartClick Intelligent wiring packages, or for previously installed towbars, Hayman Reese now offers CAN bus-compatible wiring solutions. To make these systems more compatible, Hayman Reese has introduced the Smartcode system for these vehicles. This means the Hayman Reese-approved installer can code the vehicle at the end of the installation to turn on all the correct safety feature activations while towing.

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TALKING TO CAN BUS A traditional trailer wiring harness would be prone to setting off fault codes in vehicles managed by CAN bus. The old, standard wiring loom technology can also prompt systems managed by CAN bus to fail to activate or switch off certain features within the vehicle’s safety systems when a trailer is connected to the vehicle.

Late in 2019, Hayman Reese launched the first of the SmartClick systems. A base loom was still included with the bar and the ECU, and a tail was then chosen to complete the system. The Hayman Reese SmartClick CAN bus system is a plug and play system, meaning there is no need for scotch locks, or soldering into the vehicle’s wiring harness. Hayman Reese uses the factory plugs to support this type of connectivity. The ECU supplied is designed to communicate effectively with the vehicle in the same manner as the OE version.

However, this was not as straightforward as it should have been. Earlier versions of the SmartClick system would alert the driver when a trailer is plugged into the seven-pin plug, but most vehicles would then require a manual override of the RPA sensors. In most cases that meant the vehicle had to head back to

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the dealership to be coded — and that prompted pushback from dealers who felt aftermarket wiring looms were likely to cause issues. They would often refuse to code a vehicle.

SMARTCODE SOLUTION FOR INSTALLERS This is where Hayman Reese’s Smartcode comes in. Smartcode is a handheld device that plugs into the vehicle OBD plug that will program the vehicle to recognise and accept a properly set up trailer wiring solution, and turn the correct parameters on for safe towing. As that can be done by the installer, there is no need for vehicle owners to contact dealers.

Smartcode is a token-based system for the installer, allowing an additional revenue stream from the installation, which ensures compatibility without compromising the vehicle’s integrity.

The hand piece is designed for towing coding only, and like its name it is very smart. In a few short minutes the vehicle is coded and ready to go. The Smartcode firmware is constantly updated, and a quick download will ensure the hand piece is kept up to date.

Brands currently supported are Ford, VW, AUDI, Skoda, and Mercedes.

For more information, contact Hayman Reese on 0800 MY T BAR.

TOWBARS WIRING KITS WEIGHT DISTRIBUTION KITS TOWBALLS ALLOY UTE TRAYS TONNEAU COVERS NUDGE BARS LADDER RACKS SPORTS BARS CARGO BARRIERS ROOF RACKS HITCH STEP PINTLE CYCLE RACKS Email address : info@haymanreese.co.nz Web: haymanreese.co.nz Phone: 0800 698 227

OUR BRANDS Capricor� Supplier Number: 810776

FOR THE REAL TOW & CARRY

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Auto Channel Issue #42 December 2021

ICON OF ICONS THERE ARE A FEW CARS AS ICONIC AS A DODGE CHALLENGER, AND FEW ENGINE BUILDERS AS ICONIC AS MIKE GEARING. THIS HEMI-POWERED WEAPON IS THE PERFECT COMBINATION OF BOTH WORDS: TODD WYLIE PHOTOS: RIXSTA PHOTOGRAPHY

f you were lucky enough to be around the New Zealand drag racing scene during the nitro heyday of the 1970s and 1980s then you’ll know the name Mike Gearing very well. He was one of the key players in the drag racing scene, having worked his way through the ranks from rookie to the quickest and fastest man in the country, taking part in a variety of classes along the way. Despite building countless race engines for customers, it was his development of nitro-fueled Hemi engines in Top Fuel class that saw him rise to fame. This life of living a quarter-mile at a time wasn’t without danger though and, sadly, not once but twice Mike was involved in serious — life-threatening — accidents due to his desire to go ever faster. Having wisely retired while still alive, Mike continued to build engines for various other racers and street machine drivers until recent years.

His knowledge, contacts, and experience made him the go-to guy, especially for Hemi builds. Of course, being that much of a speed die-hard and Mopar fan, he was always a fan of having tough street cars too — the 1970 Dodge Challenger you see here being one example.

Always being more an enthusiast of engineering and performance than visual appeal, Mike purchased the car about 30 years ago and kept it in his possession, never changing the look of it, until 18 months ago. In 2020, and by now getting on in years, and with somewhat limited mobility, thanks in part to a life well spent (read drag racing crashes), he decided it was time for it to find a new home. Listing it for sale with minimal details, the words Hemi and Challenger pricked up the ears of the right people, and one of those happened to put the listing in front of Wairarapa-based Mopar lover Graham Allen. Like Mike, Graham’s no stranger to these pages, having previously had his Procharged Hemi-powered Plymouth GTX grace our cover.

“I rang Mike on a Wednesday, and by Sunday I was bringing the car home,” he recalls, and it’s not hard to see why either. While some details have been lost in time, the car — as with anything that Mike was involved in — was built right. While that includes Mike doing all the usual things, such as making sure the suspension and brakes were up to scratch, being an engine builder by trade, it’s not hard to figure out where he focused the majority of his attention.

If most street car owners said their car had an

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Auto Channel Issue #42 December 2021

old Top Fuel block in it, we’d call bullshit. Being that it was a combo Mike built up for himself, we’d say there’s every chance that claim is true here. The ductile iron block features not just the usual indestructible Hemi design but incorporates ½-inch cross side bolts and 9/16-inch main bolts.

Add to this a stud girdle for additional rigidity, and you’ve got a bottom end that will last a lifetime in a streetcar set-up. That’s not to say that Mike would then scrimp on the rotating assembly; far from it — instead he filled it with a steel stroker crank, H-beam rods, and forged pistons. ARP 200 series fasteners were called upon to tie it all together, as

well as to fasten the ported and polished castiron heads. While ported and polished leaves the level of detail somewhat ambiguous, if you were a high-end engine builder, building a car for yourself, how far would you go? We can only imagine Mike would have done the same, as much as he may play it down. Of course, when you’re the type of guy who plays with multi-thousand horsepower supercharged engine combos, building a naturally aspirated street engine seems somewhat tame.

In contrast, to those of us without that lofty experience, the tame street engine is a serious piece of kit. Helping with this is the custom specced

Comp Cams roller cam that works in conjunction with oversized valves and beehive valve springs. We all know big Hemis like to breathe, and this 484ci combo is no different, so for maximum airflow a ported and polished (read into that what you like) Mopar high rise single plane manifold was added up top. Working as a semi-controlled fuel leak up top is a 1050cfm Holley carb, and turning that fuel into fire and fun was left to a swathe of MSD ignition components. While not exactly the open zoomies that Mike was well experienced with in his racing days, the TTI stainless headers and twin 3-inch exhausts could be fairly considered the street car equivalent, and allow the system to exude that unmistakable Hemi sound.

Mike knew he needed a driveline that could handle the torque, so for this he turned to Eric Livingstone at West Auckland Engine Reconditioners. A fellow Mopar guru with equally as many years experience as Mike, Eric stripped down a 727 TorqueFlite and rebuilt it with all the fruit. Even now, decades after it was completed, that trans — and likewise the Dana 60 rear end — are still going strong. That’s impressive when you consider the package was dynoed at 750hp!

When Graham took ownership, Mike did let him know that he thought something was up with it, as it didn’t seem to be getting the tyres turning as easily as it used to. But he had every faith in Graham that he would soon get it sorted, and it wasn’t long before Mike received a video of the car pulling a 550m powerskid … a sure fire sign that the hidden horsepower had been found. While some may say it’s sacrilege to drive a car this cool like that, others like Mike are stoked it’s being used as it should.

Of course with that big 1050cfm carb up top and the car’s hefty appetite for fuel, any spirited driving

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results in multiple gas stops, but that’s not going to slow Graham or the car down.

While the car’s Moulin Rouge colour is divisive in its appeal, that’s the colour the car was painted when it was imported all those years ago. Mind you, to Mike it was only his old Challenger, so he didn’t feel the need to give it much love, but to Graham it’s so much more than just an old car. There’s also the fact that Graham comes from a high-end restoration background, so he soon set to giving the car the love and attention it deserved. “When I bought it, the car had one unpainted door jamb and the boot surround was unpainted too, exposing the

car’s factory grey colour.” Of course, with a spray booth at home, that was corrected almost instantly, in part because it was just odd, but also in part to make sure it wasn’t in need of any further work, so he could just hop in and enjoy it at any time.

That leaves his shed clear for the rebuild of the GTX, if he ever gets to the end of the customer jobs that seem to consume his attention. Mind you, with a 750hp naturally aspirated Hemi-powered Challenger already on the road, maybe there’s no real rush to get the GTX sorted. That said, surely the only thing better than one Hemi-powered street car is two …

Auto Channel Issue #42 December 2021

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New head unit upgrade kits for Falcon and Territory OWNERS OF FORD FALCON BA-BF AND TERRITORY SX-SY MODELS CAN NOW UPGRADE THE AUDIO/VISUAL HEAD UNIT IN THEIR DASHBOARD THANKS TO AERPRO, A LEADING AUSTRALIAN AUDIO AND DIGITAL CONNECTIVITY SPECIALIST pgrade kits enable car owners to replace old audio head units with screens featuring integrated navigation and other connected media technology, including reversing cameras.

These new Falcon and Territory kits are designed to accept double-din head units with touch-screen displays.

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“The most appealing aspect of these Aerpro kits is that they are designed and produced to resemble the original dash layout in style, colour, and finish,” says Tim Paterson, national sales manager for Griffiths Equipment, which distributes Aerpro products throughout New Zealand.

“Once installed it’s almost impossible to tell that it hasn’t come out of the factory with this upgrade.”

Each kit comes complete with the fascia, main wiring harness, steering wheel control interface, and antenna adapter. The only items that may be required are any secondary harness and patch leads that are specific to the aftermarket head unit being installed.

Tim says the kits are easy for any DIY car owner to fit with basic tools, although Aerpro recommends mechless shallow-mount head units for

easier installation, due to their mounting depth.

The kits are suitable for vehicles with single or dual zone climate control, and they incorporate integrated buttons for adjusting climate control and various vehicle settings displayed in blue dimmable symbols, supporting the factory look. The climate control and vehicle information is displayed on the aftermarket AV head unit, just as it would be with an OEM system. The kits are designed so that the central dash air vents can be slotted back into their original position.

The kits also allow for the original steering wheel A/V controls to function as normal and provide output feeds for reverse trigger, park brake, and speed pulse. For more information, see griffithsequipment.co.nz.

Redarc’s managing director Anthony Kittel believes the initiative offers a point of difference in the market and is unique, coming as it does from a manufacturer.

“We are committed to achieving 100 percent customer satisfaction through service excellence and continuous improvement. It is for this reason that we have established the RedNetwork across Australia and New Zealand.”

A year-long trial of the programme has been

running in the Adelaide market.

Tim Byrne, owner of Belair Road Auto, commented: “The tech support team has sent many customers our way. They usually start a sentence with, ‘Redarc recommended you’, so the trust is already there.”

The RedNetwork programme will be phased in over the coming years throughout Australia and New Zealand.

“This is just the beginning of the journey. We want to make sure as it rolls out that it represents a positive experience for all involved,” says Redarc’s partnerships manager and manager of the programme, David Evans. He says members of the RedNetwork will be easily identifiable with branded signage. Businesses looking for further information on the programme, or to register their interest in becoming a member, can email rednetwork@ Redarc.com.au, or contact David Evans on devans@ Redarc.com.au.

latest technological advancements when little or no training is provided by vehicle manufacturers when competing with larger automotive workshop groups.

Century Yuasa, Australasia’s largest battery manufacturer and supplier, recognises the importance of New Zealand’s independent auto electrical businesses and launched a national network of auto electricians to form Battery Zone.

Battery Zone originally started as a group of independent auto electrical businesses brought together by Century Yuasa to pool their expertise, learn about advances in battery technology, and offer a networking opportunity.

Today, Battery Zone is one of New Zealand’s largest connected networks of independent auto electrical businesses offering local expert advice as well as quality products, while still retaining their local business identities.

Battery Zone is designed to support its members through being a marketable group identity which is able to efficiently advertise nationally. Century Yuasa’s marketing team supports Battery Zone members with marketing initiatives to effectively reach their target audience, including national TV, digital, and radio advertising, and strategically

aligned sponsorships with New Zealand rugby, motorsports, and fishing shows.

“For too long now the auto electrical industry has been grouped within the auto mechanical industry, especially in areas of training,” says Century Yuasa general manager Stu Stanners.

“In fact, auto electrical has evolved into an extremely specialised sector of the auto industry with the technical development of the motor vehicle.”

He says Century Yuasa Batteries created Battery Zone to assist in training, marketing, and networking opportunities.

Battery Zone members are also invited to participate in the annual national conference, allowing like-minded auto electrical specialists to share knowledge to further advance the industry. It offers open discussion between members regarding future issues facing the industry, professional business coaching, product and technical training, and opportunities to share ideas and initiatives that will help grow their businesses. To future proof your business in the rapidly changing automotive marketplace, call 0800 93 93 93, or email info@cyb.co.nz for more information.

Redarc launches RedNetwork REDARC’S NEW CERTIFIED INSTALLER PROGRAMME GIVES CUSTOMERS PEACE OF MIND edarc has introduced a new RedNetwork programme — a network of auto electrical focused trade businesses who have been certified by Redarc — to install Redarc products.

The programme is membership based and businesses pay an annual fee in return for benefits, including customer referrals, product training, and extended warranty. The ethos of the RedNetwork is to respect the individuality and ownership of member businesses and provide a Redarc team environment that encourages collaboration and customer service excellence.

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Century Yuasa backs independents with Battery Zone COMPLEX NEW ELECTRONIC VEHICLE TECHNOLOGIES MEAN DEMAND FOR AUTO ELECTRICAL WORK IS AT AN ALL-TIME HIGH entury Yuasa identifies with the pressures this puts on independent auto electrical businesses — especially in keeping up to date with the

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Auto Channel Issue #42 December 2021

BOOST YOU R B US I N E SS WITH FR E E TRAI N I NG!*

It’s not too late! Hire a MITO apprentice and take advantage of the Government’s Apprenticeship Boost payments. Find out about the subsidies available for first year and second year apprentices at mito.nz/apprenticeshipboost. *Includes new and existing apprenticeships

New tools and technologies at All Euro Parts A NEW VDO TOOL THAT REPROGRAMS VAG AIR FLAP ACTUATORS, AND A NEW ADJUSTABLE CONTROL ARMS FOR BMWS, ARE THE LATEST ADDITIONS AT ALL EURO PARTS, ALL MANAGED WITH A NEW BARCODE SYSTEM ll Euro Parts is known for its specialty automotive tools for purchase or hire. Owner Auric Mirfin says ingenious new tool designs come out regularly. “Being innovative is a key value for All Euro Parts,’’ he says. “A lot of time and effort is put into making sure that all the latest technology is available to our customers.”

A recent addition to VDO is a tool designed to reprogram air flap actuators and turbo wastegate actuators on Audi and Volkswagen vehicles. This tool allows mechanics to replace air flap actuators or turbo wastegate actuators without replacing complete modules, delivering time and cost savings to the customer and the workshop.

All Euro Parts is also the exclusive distributor for German Meyle parts in New Zealand. Meyle has recently designed and launched adjustable control arms that fit a range of related vehicle models, which means workshops are more likely to get the parts they need without delay. For example, the Meyle 316 050 0044/HD fits 5, 6, and 7 series BMWs. The control arm bushing is clearly marked to show the adjustment options that match different OE parts. The adjustable guiding suspension ball joint also allows for easy camber corrections, in this way making them superior to OE parts. Auric says Meyle

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HD parts are manufactured to higher standards than OE parts and come with a four-year warranty.

Getting the main parts for European vehicles from parts suppliers is not difficult, but often the necessary OE nuts, bolts, seals, and fittings are not available.

To solve this problem for workshops, All Euro Parts has researched all of the most common essential fittings for the major European brands and added them to their stock holding, making All Euro Parts a one-stop shop for workshops, saving time on jobs and simplifying invoicing.

Auric says All Euro Parts is continually seeking to improve

the processes affecting customers, and taking advantage of innovations across an ever-changing industry. All Euro Parts has implemented a new barcode scanning system at its new Christchurch branch, located at 40 Brisbane Street, Sydenham. “This technology allows us to pick much faster and more accurately, improving turnaround times for our customers,” says branch manager Jaco Gouws.

“It also allows us to sign off and photograph each order that goes out, ensuring each order is verified and packed to perfection.”

All Euro Parts is a Capricorn supplier.

For more information, contact All Euro Parts on 0800 ALL EURO.

0800 255 387 www.alleuroparts.co.nz Audi l VW l Skoda l BMW l Mini l Land Rover l Jaguar l Peugeot l Citroen l Renault l Volvo l Saab l Fiat l Alfa

A Huge Range of European OE & Aftermarket Parts - Specialist Automotive Tools to Hire or Buy

Braking - Clutch Kits - Steering & Suspension - Filtration - Wheelbearing Kits & Hubs Starters & Alternators - Timing Kits - Water Pumps - Electrical & Switches - Engine Parts - Specialty Tools - Additives - Engine Mounts - Timing Chain Kits - Coolants - Oil - Workshop Equipment

Shipping Nationwide daily - New Branch 40 Brisbane St Sydenham Christchurch

www.alleuroparts.co.nz 0800 255 387 - parts@alleuroparts.co.nz

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Auto Channel Issue #42 December 2021

Where to find the best aircon catalogue? CoolDrive COOLDRIVE AUTO PARTS HAS RELEASED THE LATEST EDITION OF ITS INDUSTRY-LEADING AIR CONDITIONING CATALOGUE he 2022 CoolDrive air conditioning catalogue has moved away from the vehicle-type product organisation of previous editions, making it much easier to use and a must-have for all automotive A/C and transport refrigeration specialists.

“CoolDrive is proud to present to the market our latest Air Conditioning Catalogue, which continues our proud connection with the specialist industry dating back 45 years,” said Andrew Patterson, CoolDrive Auto Parts air conditioning and refrigerant category manager.

“For this edition, the catalogue has seen a significant format change, with an easy-to-read, simplified layout, focusing on non-vehicle specific air conditioning products.

“With workshops and businesses continuing to move into the digital era, complete vehicle specification catalogues are proving to be outdated and unnecessary. CoolDrive’s iShop is live, constantly updated, and contains simplified full search functionality for applicable parts via vehicle registration or VIN.” The new VIN-based search function also improves confidence in sourcing parts for each individual vehicle. This is particularly useful in New Zealand as vehicles come here from many

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markets, making it easier to get caught out by minor model variations.

The catalogue features the latest products from industry leading brands such as Ariazone, Atco, Bosch, Burgaflex, CPS, Davies Craig, Denso, Jayair, Maradyne, Robinair, Sanden, Spal, Unicla, Tama, Valeo, Viper, and Vulkan Lokring.

Detailed throughout the more than 200 pages is CoolDrive’s full universal air conditioning product offering, which includes blowers, compressors, condensers, evaporators, fans, fittings, heaters, pulleys, refrigerants, thermostats, and more, plus an expanded tools and equipment section.

New product ranges include Jayair LeakXpose and nitrogen disposable cylinders, the Jayair range of heavy-duty evaporators, the Burgaflex fitting range, and an updated comprehensive range of compressor control valves.

One of the handy features of the new catalogue is that all O-rings and washers are pictured at their actual sizes.

While CoolDrive continues to be an innovator in air conditioning products, the company has massively expanded its entire product range to include brakes, electrical accessories and lighting, engine cooling, engine management, filtration and lubricants, rotating electrical equipment, tools and

equipment, and workshop consumables.

For further information on CoolDrive’s air conditioning product range, see cooldrive.co.nz, or visit a CoolDrive branch.

World Class Service & Parts.

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Delivery Service Now Available!

• Air Conditioning • Brakes • Electrical Accessories & Lighting • Engine Cooling • Engine Management • Filtration & Lubricants • Rotating Electrical • Tools & Equipment • Workshop Consumables

ALBANY - AUCKLAND - CHRISTCHURCH - HAMILTON

cooldrive.co.nz 0800 327 868

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Getting hot and heavy ONE OF THE ONLY EVENTS LEFT STANDING THIS SUMMER (AT THE TIME OF PRINT), THE ICONIC REPCO CLASSIC CAR AND HOT ROD FESTIVAL AT KUMEU, IS FORGING AHEAD WITH THEIR PLANS TO YET AGAIN HOST A MASSIVE SUMMER FESTIVAL AT THE KUMEU SHOWGROUNDS. he 28th running will be held on 14–16 January 2022, and it will be as big as ever, with an expected 3500 cars and 100 bikes bringing around 25,000 people to the show, which now occupies the entire 16-hectare showgrounds site to capacity.

More than 350 swap sites, 120 trade stands, and more than 25 food and drink vendors will fill the paddocks surrounding the main drawcard, the invitation-only show hall, where new cars will be unveiled and some old favourites showcased.

Anyone who’s attended the show in previous years will know it’s often the hundreds of cars on display outside the show halls that can deliver the

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the stage. Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers tribute band The Refugees are playing on Friday night.

For those not wanting to go all-out, after hours drive-in movies will feature on Friday night for the first time, taking place in the oval. What do you want to see? The selection of movies will be determined by public voting on the event’s Facebook page.

Entry is only $20 on the gate, with kids under 12 free, and $15 for those who come as passengers in a show car. For more information or to book a trade, swap, or campsite, see kumeuhotrodfestival.co.nz.

unexpected goodness we all seek at these events.

Other key drawcards return — the People’s Choice award, the swap sites, the Jack Daniel’s BBQ competition, a pedal car competition, best dressed competitions, and a kids’ hot rod race on Saturday night.

Camping also returns for swap site holders, members of displaying car clubs, people displaying cars, or vendors. To camp, contact the organisers ahead of time. Entertainment this year will include the Rocking Roller-Coasters, Matt Joe Gow, Tony & the Dauntless, Swampland, and Mema Wilda rocking

GUD Holdings buys Vision X group UD Holdings Limited is buying the Vision X Group from the company’s US and Korean founders. Founded in 1997, Vision X has product development and production facilities in Korea and China, as well as marketing, sales, product development, and warehouse facilities in the USA. The acquisition supports GUD’s aim of becoming a global leader in niche automotive lighting as part of the Brown and Watson International (BWI) business.

GUD’s managing director and chief executive officer Graeme Whickman said Vision X were market leaders in the design, engineering, and manufacturing of LED automotive lighting. “With over 1200 products and more than 500 trademarks, design and utility patents, we are buying a well-established, well-run business that performs strongly in automotive, motorcycle, mining, marine, general industrial, and fire and emergency vehicles,” he said.

Vision X’s leadership team will remain with the business and, because of its alignment to Brown & Watson International (BWI), the integrated Vision X business will be led by George Davies, CEO of BWI. “Vision X is well positioned for future growth both organically and via the introduction of BWI’s existing product range and marketing expertise.”

Mr Davies commented: “Vision X has enduring partnerships across multiple geographies. We look forward to the Vision X team becoming a part of our team.”

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Auto Channel Issue #42 December 2021

TRW brake fluids setting the pace dvanced technologies, including anti-lock braking systems (ABS) and electronic stability programmes (ESP), require corresponding development in complementary products — such as brake fluids — to maximise safety and performance.

Brake fluids heat up in use and, as brake hoses get older, the amount of moisture that gets into the system increases, lowering the brake fluid’s boiling point. If the brake fluid reaches boiling point, ‘vapour lock’ can occur, potentially resulting in brake failure.

ZF Aftermarket recommends workshops regularly check a vehicle’s brake fluid and advises annual fluid changes.

All TRW brake fluids, available from ZF in Oceania, are tested to the extreme and exceed international DOT specifications. The range incorporates the latest technology to make vehicles safer, with a blend of advanced lubricants, stabilisers, anti-oxidants, and corrosion inhibitors to help minimise wear and maximise performance.

DOT 3: TRW DOT 3 is designed for vehicles with front and rear drum brakes, as well as hydraulic clutch systems. Some Japanese car manufacturers recommend DOT 3 for their vehicles with ABS and ESP. DOT 4 range: TRW DOT 4 is recommended for vehicles with front disc brakes and rear drum brakes, or disc brakes all round, and those fitted with ABS. The DOT 4 ESP is for vehicles fitted with ABS and ESP, while DOT 4 GT is for high-performance vehicles.

DOT 5.1: Low viscosity TRW DOT 5.1 is designed for the very latest ESP and is ideal for heavy, high-performance cars.

For more information on the TRW braking range available in New Zealand, see www.trwbraking.com.au.

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Products

Winning smart cart This durable, lightweight, high-capacity cart allows tyre fitters to manoeuvre heavy wheel sets in the most ergonomic way with the help of its patented tilting system. The robot-welded, powder-coated steel Winntec cart has been developed with some of Europe’s leading tyre service chains. The carts have a unique push-slide-secure automatic locking system that eliminates the need for foot-operated or hand-controlled jaws that are wear sensitive. The light yellow-coloured, foam-filled tyres are maintenance free and leave no tracks on the workshop floor. Weighing just 20kg, the Winntec cart handles most car and SUV wheelsets from 14-inch to 20-inch, up to 200kg, and has a three-year warranty. Available from Treadway Equipped, call 0800 436 436, or see treadwayequipped.co.nz.

Tidy tool time

Convert-a-ball

The range of sturdy Chicane tool chests not only look the business, but also help to keep your workshop functioning smoothly, providing a place for all tools in seven-drawer chests right through to comprehensive garage trolleys.

They are made from powdercoated, workshop-grade steel panels mounted on a reinforced steel frame body, with solid aluminium handles.

Gas struts on the tool chests keep lids under control. The drawers roll open on heavy-duty ball bearings, and the trolleys roll on lockable castors.

See chicanetools.co.nz for stockists and pricing.

This bolt-on Convert-A-Ball pintle hitch and ball mount combo is ideal for heavy-duty towing, retaining the ability to tow with a standard coupling. It includes three interchangeable, stainless-steel hitch balls with towing capacities from 3500lbs t o 10,000 lbs, and a pintle sleeve adapter (GTW 25,000 lbs).

The polyurethane interior acts as a shock absorber. The double-engagement, rust-resistant locking system converts quickly from pintle to standard ball mount — no tools needed.

Convert-a-Ball is made in America. Call 0800 698 227 for stockists, or more information.

Meyle-HD superior suspension Meyle-HD products suspension kits are designed to be technically superior to OE parts.

This ready-to-install control arm kit comes with all the control arms for the front axle, the appropriate stabilisers, installation materials, and Meyle high-performance lubricant in every Meyle-HD ball joint. The reinforced and optimised design and use of highquality materials make Meyle-HD parts more durable and reliable. Meyle offers a fouryear guarantee on all Meyle-HD parts. For more information visit alleuroparts.co.nz/ meyle-hd-control-arm-kit-audi.

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Auto Channel Issue #42 December 2021

Two-post Powerrex lift The SL-2950H 4500kg Powerrex Korea lift is 100 percent made in Korea. It features an automatic electrical locking system with a four-button control box for up, lock, lower, and direct down buttons, plus a remote control. It has three-stage telescoping front arms, two-stage rear arms, double screw-up feet with 80mm 4x4 height extensions, and protective rubber pads mounted to the carriage. See automaster.co.nz, call 0800 214 604, or email info@automaster.co.nz for more information.

Eats rocks for breakfast The Lakesea Alligator is a serious off-road cross-ply tyre designed for the toughest conditions. The directional pattern features 17mm deep lugs to attack loose ground, combined with aggressive side biters for grip and sidewall protection. The Lakesea Alligator offers no-compromise off-road performance without the high costs normally associated with specialist tyres.

For example, a 31-inch 10.5x15 is $330, plus GST. Available from all leading tyre retailers in a range of popular sizes.

Actual smoke and mirrors AFi’s latest diagnostic machine will help locate vacuum leaks on fuel evaporative systems, intake/ induction systems, exhaust systems, and more. The TO90206 Diagnostic Smoke Machine features a flow meter and pressure gauge, with an adjustable air pressure to suit multiple test situations. Powered via the vehicle’s 12V battery, the unit can quickly and accurately locate physical leaks, and with its own air pump, it is suitable for mobile technicians. For more information and pricing, see cooldrive.co.nz.

ACDelco drive belts ACDelco premium range belts are a service replacement for original belts on serpentine drives and other ribbed belt applications. ACDelco premium belts for small diameter pulleys, backside idlers, with or without automotive tensioners, are designed and manufactured to eliminate annoying belt noise, reduce tension loss, and solve problem drive applications. There are more than 200 ACDelco premium belts now available, giving workshops confidence they can service the majority of passenger cars, SUVs, 4WDs, and commercial vehicles using belts from the AC Delco range. For more information visit acdelco.co.nz.

Products Arnott air springs for X5 and X6 Arnott’s aftermarket air spring A-2642 for X5 and X6 BMWs fits the rear of the 2007-2018 BMW X5 (E70 and F15 chassis), and 2008-2019 BMW X6 (E71 and F16 chassis). The Arnott engineered spring features a new air sleeve from Continental ContiTech, high-impact resin top and bottom caps, heavy-duty crimping rings, and a new push-to-connect air line fitting.

Designed, assembled, and tested in the USA, this universal aftermarket BMW air spring fits both left and right sides. Arnott recommends replacing BMW X5 and X6 air springs in pairs. For more information, visit alleuroparts.co.nz/arnott-new-rear-air-spring-bmw-x6-x5.

Go trilobular The trilobular shape of Narva’s new AeroTech LED strobe lights is more aerodynamic, and also increases the visible surface area. Add the power of LEDs, and AeroTech warning lamps are up to six times brighter than the required SAE standard. The light but durable polycarbonate lenses and bases are sealed from water and dust (IP67), and solid state circuitry means no moving parts, enabling a seven-year warranty. They operate on voltages from 10-33V and have three power outputs — 36, 45, and 90 watts. Flashing can be synchronised for up to six units. For more information, see www.griffithsequipment.co.nz.

Geba water pumps for VAG Since 1964 the German family-owned company Geba, based in Vettelschoss, has been a byword for quality, professional competence, and personal commitment. For more than 50 years, Geba-Autoteile GmbH has been producing water pumps of the highest quality for VW, Audi, and Skoda. Available from Qualitat European’s Christchurch and Auckland branches; for more information visit Qualitat.co.nz, or call on 09-579 3710 or 0800 4VWAUDI.

Century smart battery chargers

Heavy-duty lifting The Heshbon HL-48H is a heavy-duty 8.5-ton, four-post vehicle lift. Its main cylinder and cable pulleys are rated to 10 ton, and the centre rolling jacks are rated to five ton. It boasts the longest platform length in its class at 6420mm, with 3190mm between the posts. It’s also available in a 10-ton configuration.

It has an RRP of $25,995 + gst, which includes two five-ton jacking beams, delivery, and installation (terms and conditions apply). Contact sales@centurydistributors.co.nz or 04 567 1405 for more information.

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Auto Channel Issue #42 December 2021

Century’s range of chargers are designed to keep batteries at their peak performance. Suitable for charging batteries rated up to 240Ah and maintaining batteries rated up to 360Ah, the range features an advanced charging process to maximise charging performance and help extend battery life for all types of batteries. They can even repair heavily discharged batteries and are backed by Century’s five-year warranty. For more information on Century’s chargers and batteries, see centurybatteries.co.nz, or call 0800 93 93 93.

45 Rennie Drive, Mangere parts@1stparts.co.nz (09) 638 6439

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Mark Everleigh - 09 222 1729

SUPPLIER

Supplier directory

PA R Be TS

a S ra ring UP di s P at , d LY or iff s, s, en al SE gi ter RV ne n O IC co ato ils E ,g C m rs, po br re O as N ne ak e, S nt e c co UM s, om ol A W ba p an B O tte o L t R ,t E rie nen Ra K S r an s ts gs SH , s cl , lu O flu ea b P id ne ric C , rs an O b u , c ts N lb SU ar , P SU s, flu ca PE M S re , a AB sh Ti PE ,a e L e N es r irc os ES bu rod SIO on ol sh s, N s, es ba A ab , b ll j N ra ea oin D siv AF rin ts ST es TE , E gs ra E , Au R , s ck R di M I h oc en NG dr o, AR ks ds es pe K , s rf ET up or , p m AC W ai an C nt ce ES O /w p S D RK ra ar O ia S p, ts, RI gn H ha o O dr bo ES nd sti P iv d el yk to cs, EQ in it ol ho U e s, s, is IP RE sp ts M PA ec , e E N Au IR ia lec T lis t to t s ric en e SER er s, gi lec V vi po ne tr IC ce w i re cal E eq er bu , g W ui to ild ea pm ol IN r s b ,s o W DS en s, u in C t sp xes d m sc RE en , c irr re E sio yli or en N n n s, s S , c der w , c AN oo h ip hi D W er p lin ead H s, re G g s, E LA O E p c a us i EM LS S r to s, S re re A m s pa p ND fit ide irs lac T m gl , c em Y en as R o t s, ns en ES AU um t, TO t Re ab yre s R le s, s, fit su tora EFI in tin pp ti N ne g lie on ISH r t /b s, , sm E ub ala sp a R es nc ra sh S in y g, pa rep in ai te rs rs , a ,p u ai tont b co od rre y ct io n

YOUR GUIDE TO NEW ZEALAND'S LEADING AUTOMOTIVE TRADE SUPPLIERS

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0800 472 787 0800 200 100 0800 445 889 0800 333 125 aecs.net 06 874 9077 bntnz.co.nz 09 414 3200 hcb.co.nz or 0800 422 228

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precisionequipment.co.nz 0800 246 478

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jasoceania.co.nz or 0800 527 335

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dieseldistributors.co.nz or 09 265 0622 09 836 6673

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autolign.co.nz or 09 574 2288 tatp.co.nz or 0800 268 266

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smitsgroup.co.nz or 0800 227 422

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griffithsequipment.co.nz or 09 525 4575

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parts@1stautoparts.co.nz or 09 638 6439 mountshop.co.nz or 0508 866 686

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bmw.co.nz or 0508 269 727 cyb.co.nz or 09 978 6666

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0800 465 855 0800 549 429

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automaster.co.nz or 0800 214 604 centurydistributors.co.nz

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patchrubber.co.nz or 0508 837 248 dtm.co.nz or 0800 621 233 penriteoil.co.nz or 0800 533 698 nzmotoroils.com or 0800 942 645

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0800 383 566 06 306 8446 or blackfern.coop redarcelectronics.co.nz 0800 757 333 or fenixautoparts.co.nz

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smitsgroup.co.nz or 0800 227 422

crc.co.nz or 09 272 2700 rjbatt.co.nz or 09 636 5980

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Auto Channel Issue #41 November 2021

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treadwayequipped.co.nz 0800 436 436 sales@advancefc.co.nz 0800 538 058 holden.co.nz/dealers

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mmnz.co.nz or 0800 54 53 52

cooldrive.co.nz or 0800 327 868

ryco.co.nz or 0800 838 222

ford.co.nz or 0800 367 369

tyreorder.co.nz or 0800 80 90 96

moreyoil.co.nz or 09 813 9200

gearwrench.co.nz

Napa.co.nz or 0800 800 073

0800 698 227

fuchs.co.nz or 09 828 3255

bendix.co.nz

09 636 5428 or sales@clutchindustries.co.nz

nz.macnaught.com or 0800 023 510

The Auto Channel supplier directory is your easy reference for sourcing a range of automotive products and services.

This directory is a paid service for businesses who supply to the New Zealand automotive trade. To secure your inclusion, contact Mark Everleigh on 09 222 1729 or mark.everleigh@parkside.co.nz.

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a S ra ring UP di s P at , d LY or iff s, s, en al SE gi ter RV ne n O IC co ato ils E ,g C m rs, po br re O as N ne ak e, S nt e c co UM s, om ol A W ba p an B O tte o L t R , rie nen ES Ra K t r an s ts gs SH , s cl , lu O fl ea b P ui ne ric C d, rs an O b u , c ts N lb SU ar , P SU s, flu ca PE M S re , a AB sh Ti PE ,a e L e N es r r ir os ES bu od SIO co o sh s, l N n s, es ba A ab , b ll j N ra ea oin D siv AF rin ts ST es TE ,r E g , s, ac ER Au R sh k d M oc en ING dr io, AR ks ds es pe K , s rf ET up or , p m AC W ai an C nt ce ES O /w p S D RK ra ar O ia S g p, ts, RI ha no HO dr bo ES s nd ti P iv d el yk c E to s, Q in it ol ho U e s, s, is IP RE sp ts M PA ec , e E N Au IR ia lec T lis t to t s ric en e SER er s, gi lec V vi po ne tr IC ce w i re cal E eq er bu , g W ui to ild ea pm ol IN r s b , W DS en s, o s u x in C t sp es d m sc RE en , c irr re E sio yli or en N nd n S s, s , c er w , c AN oo h ip hi D W er p lin ead H s, re G g s, E O E pa LA c u EM LS st irs SS om , s re re A pa p ND fit ide irs lac T m gl , c em Y en as R o t s, e ns n E S AU um t, TO t Re ab yre s R le s, s, fit su tora EFI in tin pp ti N ne g lie on ISH r t /b s, , sm E ub ala sp a R es nc ra sh S in y g, pa rep in ai te rs rs , a ,p u ai tont b co od rre y ct io n

PA R Be TS

Blackfern becomes memberowned co-operative BLACKFERN TRANSITIONS FROM A COOPERATIVELY PRINCIPLED BUSINESS INTO A MEMBER-OWNED CO-OPERATIVE he Blackfern Co-operative continues to evolve, becoming a fully-fledged member-owned co-operative in line with parameters set out in the Co-operative Companies Act 1996.

Roger Castleton, Blackfern’s founding director and chief executive, says this means all trading members have a share in the ownership of Blackfern, similar to other well-known co-operatives, for example, those in the dairy sector. Member-owned co-operatives are generally guided by core imperatives such as the ‘Rochdale principles’, commonly referred to nowadays as the seven international principles of cooperation.

These are: • Voluntary and open membership • Democratic control • Member economic participation • Autonomy and independence • Education, training, and information • Cooperation among co-operatives • Concern for community Participating members support their co-operative based on these principles, which have been shown time and again to lead to positive member engagement.

Co-ops really started back in mid-1800s industrial Britain, which is when these particular principles were established by a co-operative in the northern English town of Rochdale. “A similar entrepreneurial spirit, combined with the Kiwi liking of working together, has shown this model also works well here,” says Roger. “We have seen many of these small collectives evolve over the decades in many sectors, and in particular the agriculture sector. Not many businesses survive four or five-plus generations, so that’s another big tick for co-ops.”

Co-operatives in New Zealand now play a major role in the economy, accounting for approximately 18-19 percent of our GDP by revenue. They employ tens of thousands of people either directly or in supporting roles.

“These are exciting times for Blackfern

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members,” says Roger. The co-op’s journey began on 5 August 2014 when local Wairarapa workshop owners met on a cold evening in the Masterton Cosmopolitan Club to form Blackfern. “It’s a great place to be now and a fair way from those humble beginnings,” says Roger. “It’s an honour to be part of the movement.”

Until now, Blackfern has been a ‘cooperatively principled business’, but with nearly 1300 members nationwide it now has sufficient weight and momentum to transition into the form intended from the beginning, that of a member-owned co-operative.

Roger says this formal step, known as mutualisation, helps to lock in the sustainability the Blackfern Co-operative needs to keep delivering on the objectives identified back on that Wairarapa winter evening. They went beyond introducing some friendly competition in the supply chain, building a trusted network of mutually supportive suppliers and customers. Other key benefits for the independent repairer included improving access to business technology, business support, and the knowledge and experience of other people.

Blackfern has grown from strength to strength in an industry hungry for some home-grown perspective and the special insight derived from the shared entrepreneurial thinking of Kiwis who want to support fellow Kiwis.

The heart of any business or organisation is its people. Roger would like to express a huge thank you to all the great members, suppliers, and team members he has been privileged to meet and welcome on board, and who have supported this journey to date.

“Roll on 2022 and what the next seven years brings,” he says.

Want to know more? A great place to start to understand the co-operative model is the Cooperative Business New Zealand website, nz.coop. For more information, please contact Roger Castleton on 027 252 2533, or roger@ blackfern.coop, to discuss the Blackfern difference.

Auto Channel is the best way to reach the wider automotive industry. The publication is direct mailed to 11,306 New Zealand businesses in the following automotive sectors: Automotive workshops Parts importers and distributors Transmission specialists Automotive recyclers Towing operators Panel beaters and painters Crash repairers Tyre dealers Suspension and underbody repairers Steering specialists Towing operators Auto-electrical repairers New- and used-car dealers Air-conditioning repairers Heavy-machinery dealers Trucking and transport

Auto Channel Issue No. 43 distributed 1 February Editorial: editor@autochannel.co.nz Advertising: Michael White michael.white@parkside.co.nz All other enquiries to: autochannel.co.nz Auto Channel is produced by Parkside Media, publishers of NZ’s three biggest-selling automotive magazines: NZ Performance Car, New Zealand Classic Car, and NZV8.

Roger Castleton with the voting slips establishing Blackfern

46

Auto Channel Issue #42 December 2021

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