Auto Channel #10

ISSUE 10 FEBRUARY 2019

THE VOICE OF THE NEW ZEALAND AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY

AUTO CHANNEL

Universal Pliers Set

• Set of five self-locking pliers with release lever • Three with serrated, adjustable jaws with pipe grip and cutters and two with RUBEN, Flight Engineer OLE OLE JOHAN, JOHAN, Chief Chief Mechanic Mechanic extra narrow, long jaws with smooth grip and cutter When itSolberg's comes torallycross flyingcar you don’t want by to gamble.

Youmy want perfectly tuned machinery.

To get that, youwith Petter Petter Solberg's rallycross car is maintained is maintained me by me andand my Teng Teng Tools Tools storage storage unitunit TCMM1055N. TCMM1055N. It’s filled It’s filled with need a pieces perfectly tuned workshop.

Forby some, things organised perfectly might boring, but when it Pliers 401, lengths: Universal 1055 1055 pieces in 51 in 51 tool tool sets. sets.

All All chosen chosen me, by me, according according to my to my preferences. preferences.

Forseem For some, some, things things organised organised 100, 175, 250mm (Curved Jaw) comes to getting clear for take-off, it´sit vital.

Welcome to seconds, ourseconds, world! perfectly perfectly might might seem seem boring, boring, but but when when comes it comes to chasing to chasing it’s vital. it’s vital.

Welcome Welcome to our to our world! world!

For stockists visit tengtools.co.nz

Universal Pliers 404, lengths: 100, 150mm (Long Nose)

www.tengtools.co.nz

ON SPECIAL FOR $115 RRP $173.90 INCL GST

#TTVG05

ONE MAN’S VISION CREATES AN 80YEAR LEGACY AND AN AUTOMOTIVE AFTERMARKET LEGEND Omsparad.indd 3

2015-11-23 13:41:51

perfectly might seem boring, but when it comes to chasing seconds, it’s vital. Welcome to our world!

1055 pieces in 51ANNIVERSARY tool sets. All chosenOF

by WORLD-LEADING me, according to my preferences. some, things organised 2019 MARKS THE 80TH WYNN’SFor BRAND AUTOMOTIVE FLUIDS AND EQUIPMENT, A MARKET Petter Solberg's rallycross car is maintained by me and my Teng Tools storage unit TCMM1055N. It’s filled with LEADER IN MORE THAN 100 COUNTRIES

OLE JOHAN, Chief Mechanic

W

ynn’s heritage of automotive

“Wynn’s is a reliable brand that professional workshops

excellence dates back to 1939 and the

have come to know and trust over generations, and we

invention of a revolutionary oil additive

work hard to keep earning that loyalty, one bottle

that reduced friction and engine wear.

at a time.”

In the style of the times the brand set up a series of

To celebrate the anniversary with Kiwis, Wynn’s is

spectacular tests, including flying a plane with no

offering scratch cards with any product purchase

engine oil, which quickly built the profile of the brand.

for a total of $20,000 worth of Wynn’s merchandise

The company has retained its reputation for innovation

(see the product profile in this issue). And this year,

with an array of products designed to improve service

Wynn’s is keeping up the innovation by introducing the

regimes and workshop retail labour recovery.

Wynn’s MultiServ Machine developed in its European

Autoserv New Zealand is the exclusive national

R&D facility. It is designed to tackle the decline in

distributor of the Wynn’s brand and related service

performance due to poor fuel quality and build-up of

equipment.

contaminants in vehicles’ air intakes, diesel particulate

“We deliver on service and quality. That’s our game; we

filters or injection systems — without disassembly.

only distribute products that represent quality integrity

Andrew says these are common problems across the

and value money,” says Autoserv Managing Director

world and they are becoming more prominent in late-

Andrew Davis.

model vehicles.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 4

Andrew Davis, Autoserv Managing Director and Brodie Scott, National Sales Manager

projecta.co.nz

7

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ACCORDING TO TENG POLE POSITION

2

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Equipment Specialist Contacts: National Sales Manager

2 Auto Channel Issue #10 February 2019 EQUIPMENT

National Technical & Training Manager

Kevin Odgers

027 279 1204

Bruce Francis

027 494 2802

National Diagnostics Sales Manager

Dean Guilford

027 643 1608

Equipment Spares

Scott Townsend

027 246 3640

027 475 2224

Auckland North & Northland

Nigel Toa

Auckland East & South

Dave Miller

027 492 8962

Waikato & Bay of Plenty

Alan Dadswell

027 282 3966

Lower North Island

Justin Mills

027 494 7186

South Island

Brent Grindley

027 216 9173

Dunedin South

Craig Everett

027 282 7423

Contents

From the Ed.

20

It’s a new year and Auto Channel has a new hand at the wheel. We wish former editor Cameron Officer all the

Wynn’s celebrates its first 80 years

Cover / 4

best on another Parkside group project that will on our TV screens from March 31. It’s certainly an interesting time to strap into this automotive aftermarket vehicle. As Cameron

How to keep the money coming in

7

Coregas launches new gas service

8

has previously mused, we are on the cusp of perhaps the biggest change in motoring since Henry Ford brought motoring to the masses, and clearly people in this industry are keen to keep an eye on developments. As I mention in this issue’s story on Jaguar’s new I-Pace, the cynics are

4X4 fashion driving new business in bars

10

quietening down now that the range of these vehicles is going up and they are hitting the mainstream.

The nation’s take-up of EVs is still slow, but if the government

Aftermarket business school

13

Strong and stable power works best

14

wanted to push it along, simply incentivising commercial fleet operators to switch to EVs would displace a large number of conventional cars and increase the supply of second hand cars to the local market. EV cars are mechanically simpler but the change they highlight is the

New cars

18

need for workshops to get smart about software. Maintaining and repairing ever smarter cars is going to shift the skillset in our industry. There is more emphasis on keeping pace

Know your driveshaft angles

20

GPC launches Napa outlets

24

with development, keeping the tool inventory up to date, making sure workshops don’t upset vehicles’ increasingly sophisticated and sensitive control systems, and always looking for ways to operate more efficiently. That’s a point taken up by stories in this issue on using the reliable power

The latest automotive products

28

supply from a good quality battery charger; attending industry conferences on change, in a comprehensive online catalogue complete with how-to videos, on an innovative

‘80s Falcon Pinepac plus

36

Situations vacant

42

time-saving wheel aligner, in a smart screwdriver, in a new gas bottle service, in smarter and top quality hoists. And in a story on how to manage cashflow and workshop debt. As we went to press we also got details of a major new brand emerging in the aftermarket following on from several

The right way to right hand drive

44

mergers and acquisitions in this space. The big players in this industry are looking to consolidate and streamline their operations, leveraging their customer knowledge and logistics networks. While price is always a factor, if they are focusing on customer service, quality and efficiency it’s clear, despite all the other changes we are witnessing, that that will remain the winning formula in 2019. If you see anything that looks new or interesting or you would like to see covered in this magazine, or you have any comments on this month’s issue, please feel free to take up our standing offer of getting in touch at editor@autchannel.co.nz. Enjoy the read.

36

Auto Channel is distributed 11 times per year.

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

3

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

NOITISOP ELOP GNET OT GNIDROCCA

The machine will perform multiple services on petrol-

of Wynn’s ongoing commitment to innovation, and

and diesel-powered vehicles including:

providing unique solutions to the changing demand of

• fuel injection cleaning and cleaning of the combustion

the global vehicle fleet.

ISSUE 10 FEBRUARY 2019

cinahceM feihC ,NAHOJ ELO htiw dellif s’tI .N5501MMCT tinu egarots slooT gneT ym dna em yb deniatniam si rac ssorcyllar s'grebloS retteP desinagro sgniht ,emos roF .secnereferp ym ot gnidrocca ,em yb nesohc llA .stes loot 15 ni seceip 5501 !dlrow ruo ot emocleW .lativ s’ti ,sdnoces gnisahc ot semoc ti nehw tub ,gnirob mees thgim yltcefrep

chamber and intake valves

The new Multiserv sits alongside other fluid programs

• EGR/air intake cleaning

and state-of-the-art equipment designed for cooling

• DPF flush and clean

systems, transmissions, air conditioning and power-

Being able to clean these systems without disassembly

AUTO CHANNEL

steering systems.

Andrew says the Wynn’s difference is not just product excellence but the ability to demonstrate how and why

The new machine, which Andrew describes as “a game

nationally,” he says. “There are a sea of products on the

POLE POSITION ACCORDING TO TENG

market but only Wynn’s has held a top-class reputation

for release in New Zealand in the first quarter. It is proof

for eight decades.”

Wynn’s wins through the decades 1939 Chestien Wynn, a 70-year-old retired attorney with an interest in lubrication chemistry, discovered a formula he named Wynn’s Friction Proofing Oil. It changed the chemistry of the metal surface, making it better able to withstand friction and wear.

#TTVG05

OLE JOHAN, Chief Mechanic ynn’s heritage of automotive

“Wynn’s is a reliable brand that professional workshops

excellence dates back to 1939 and the

have come to know and trust over generations, and we work hard to keep earning that loyalty, one bottle at a time.”

To celebrate the anniversary with Kiwis, Wynn’s is

spectacular tests, including flying a plane with no

offering scratch cards with any product purchase

engine oil, which quickly built the profile of the brand.

for a total of $20,000 worth of Wynn’s merchandise

The company has retained its reputation for innovation

(see the product profile in this issue). And this year,

with an array of products designed to improve service

Wynn’s is keeping up the innovation by introducing the

regimes and workshop retail labour recovery.

Wynn’s MultiServ Machine developed in its European

Autoserv New Zealand is the exclusive national

R&D facility. It is designed to tackle the decline in

distributor of the Wynn’s brand and related service

performance due to poor fuel quality and build-up of

equipment.

contaminants in vehicles’ air intakes, diesel particulate

“We deliver on service and quality. That’s our game; we

filters or injection systems — without disassembly.

only distribute products that represent quality integrity

Andrew says these are common problems across the

and value money,” says Autoserv Managing Director

world and they are becoming more prominent in late-

Andrew Davis.

model vehicles.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 4

Andrew Davis, Autoserv Managing Director and Brodie Scott, National Sales Manager

7

changer” for professional automotive workshops, is due

RRP $173.90 INCL GST

perfectly might seem boring, but when it comes to chasing seconds, it’s vital. Welcome to our world!

projecta.co.nz

“Training is key to the success of our programme

ON SPECIAL FOR $115

1055 pieces in 51ANNIVERSARY tool sets. All chosenOF

by WORLD-LEADING me, according to my preferences. some, things organised 2019 MARKS THE 80TH WYNN’SFor BRAND AUTOMOTIVE FLUIDS AND EQUIPMENT, A MARKET Solberg's rallycross car is maintained by me and my Teng Tools storage unit TCMM1055N. It’s filled with LEADER INPetter MORE THAN 100 COUNTRIES

W

invention of a revolutionary oil additive

increases customer satisfaction and service profits.

www.tengtools.co.nz

2015-11-23 13:41:51

that reduced friction and engine wear.

these products work.

Universal Pliers 404, lengths: 100, 150mm (Long Nose)

ONE MAN’S VISION CREATES AN 80YEAR LEGACY AND AN AUTOMOTIVE AFTERMARKET LEGEND In the style of the times the brand set up a series of

provides a fast, effective, and high-value service that

Universal Pliers Set

• Set of five self-locking pliers with release lever • Three with serrated, adjustable jaws with pipe grip and cutters and two with extra narrow, long jaws with smooth

grip and cutter When itSolberg's comes torallycross flyingcar you don’t want by to gamble.

Youmy want perfectly tuned machinery.

To get that, youwith Petter Petter Solberg's rallycross car is maintained is maintained me by me andand my Teng Teng Tools Tools storage storage unitunit TCMM1055N. TCMM1055N. It’s filled It’s filled with need a pieces perfectly tuned workshop.

Forby some, things organised perfectly might boring, but when it Pliers 401, lengths: Universal 1055 1055 pieces in 51 in 51 tool tool sets. sets.

All All chosen chosen me, by me, according according to my to my preferences. preferences.

Forseem For some, some, things things organised organised 100, 175, 250mm (Curved Jaw) comes to getting clear for take-off, it´sit vital.

Welcome to seconds, ourseconds, world! perfectly perfectly might might seem seem boring, boring, but but when when comes it comes to chasing to chasing it’s vital. it’s vital.

Welcome Welcome to our to our world! world!

For stockists visit tengtools.co.nz

OLE JOHAN, Chief Mechanic

• turbo cleaning

THE VOICE OF THE NEW ZEALAND AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY

RUBEN, Flight Engineer OLE OLE JOHAN, JOHAN, Chief Chief Mechanic Mechanic

Omsparad.indd 3

Petter Solberg's rallycross car is maintained by me and my Teng Tools storage unit TCMM1055N. It’s filled with 1055 pieces in 51 tool sets. All chosen by me, according to my preferences. For some, things organised perfectly might seem boring, but when it comes to chasing seconds, it’s vital. Welcome to our world!

• catalytic convertor cleaning

CLEAR FOR TAKE OFF POLE POLE POSITION POSITION ACCORDING TO TENG ACCORDING ACCORDINGTO TOTENG

THE WORLD’S MOST ADVANCED RANGE OF BATTERY CHARGERS Boasting power supply mode, recondition and adjustable output Offering world class 7 stage technology and multichemistry charging, Intelli-Charge maximises battery performance and life. Intelligent electronics monitor the charging process delivering an advanced 7 stage charge to the battery. This process coupled with a chemistry specific charge process tailored to precisely match the battery type guarantees the optimum charge. In addition the workshop range is supplied with protective rubber moulded end caps for enhanced durability, ideal for the rigours of workshop enviroments.

ACCORDING TO TENG POLE POSITION

2

ADVERT

1

AUTO CHANNEL IS DISTRIBUTED TO 11,306 NEW ZEALAND BUSINESSES

ONLINE autochannel.co.nz EMAIL editor@autochannel.co.nz PHONE 09 360 1480 MAIL PO Box 46020, Herne Bay, Auckland 1147

AUTO

CHANNEL

1948 A Luscombe Silvaire airplane flew for seven minutes with no oil in the crankcase after treatment, proving that Wynn’s Friction Proofing created a protective film on moving metal parts.

EDITOR Ian Parkes, editor@autochannel.co.nz

1949 Two motors immersed into the Pacific Ocean were left for fourteen days. While still wet, the motor treated with Friction Proofing started without difficulty, the other did not.

PHOTOGRAPHER Adam Croy

1954 Independent consultants certified procedures that showed Wynn’s Friction Proofing products were responsible for 10.1% better gas mileage and 44.7% less bearing damage and 21.6% less starting friction in a year-long twin car test over a 100,000-mile test period.

1957 The Wynn’s Friction Proofing ‘Streamliner’ driven by distributor Roy Leslie, reached 435kph to set the one-mile land speed record in 1957 on the Bonneville salt flats.

1958-1959 Two light planes protected by Wynn’s Friction Proofing set new endurance records. A Cessna based in Dallas set the 50-day, 1200-hour mark then a Las Vegas-based plane took it out to 1650 hours over 64 days, 22 hours, and 19 minutes. Federal aviation authorities certified Wynn’s products for use in light aircraft.

1972 NASA used Wynn’s products on lunar missions to protect critical equipment in extreme heat and cold.

1975 Carl Wynn was appointed an Officer of the Order of the Crown of the Belgian government for his contribution to the growth of the economy of the nation.

1977 Wynn’s introduced its PowerFlush machine, which was incorporated into the Cadillac Service Equipment and Merchandising manual the following year. Also approved by British Leyland.

1992 General Motors approves Wynn’s patented engine coolant recycling systems (DU-ALL). Wynn’s products and services become recognized by the National Independent Automobile Dealers Association (NIADA) as an approved member benefit program.

1995 Chrysler approves Wynn’s patented engine coolant recycling system. Audi/VW approves Wynn’s Fuel System Tune-up and Injection System Purge. Renault approves Wynn’s France industrial Fluid. Citroën and Peugeot approved eight fuel system products and services. Exclusive contract signed with Dow Chemical North America for on-site coolant recycling inhibitor chemicals.

1996 Chrysler approved Wynn’s TranServe Automatic Transmission Flush system 1999 Wynn’s TranServe® II+ Automatic Transmission Flush Machine is the first and only transmission flush machine approved by General Motors for use by their dealers.

4

Auto Channel Issue #10 February 2019

DESIGNER Danielle Williams MEDIA SALES Mike White, michael.white@parkside.co.nz CONTENT MANAGER Helen Adams-Blackburn ADVERTISING PRODUCTION Danielle Williams ADVERTISING COORDINATOR Renae Fisher AUTO CHANNEL IS PUBLISHED BY

ADVERT

PUBLISHER

Greg Vincent, greg.vincent@parkside.co.nz

BUSINESS DIRECTOR

Michael White, michael.white@parkside.co.nz

GENERAL MANAGER

Simon Holloway, simon.holloway@parkside.co.nz

DATA ANALYST Isobel Woudberg PRINTING PMP Maxum

NOTICE TO ADVERTISERS Parkside Media uses due care and diligence in the preparation of this magazine, but is not responsible or liable for any mistakes, misprints, omissions, or typographical errors. Parkside Media prints advertisements provided to the publisher but gives no warranty and makes no representation to the truth, accuracy, or sufficiency of any description, photograph, or statement. Parkside Media accepts no liability for any loss which may be suffered by any person who relies either wholly or in part upon any description, photograph, or statement contained herein. Parkside Media reserves the right to refuse any advertisement for any reason. The views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of Parkside Media, the publisher, or editor. All material published, gathered, or created for Auto Channel is copyright 2019 Parkside Media Limited. All rights reserved in all media. No part of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without the express written permission of the publisher.

5

You can never have too many tools

Get one more and keep your toolbox covered

AMI Tradies Insurance Bundle From just $18* a week, it’s the most important tool in your toolbox.

Tool Cover

Public Liability Cover

Call us on 0800 782 838 or visit ami.co.nz/tradiesbundle 6

Auto Channel Issue #10 February 2019

*AMI Tradies Bundle starts from $18 a week for sole tradies. Add on business vehicle cover or other insurance options as required. T&C’s apply.

Scratch and be a winner with Wynn’s WYNN’S MARKS 80 YEARS AS A GLOBAL LEADER IN AUTOMOTIVE AFTERMARKET INDUSTRY THIS YEAR

I Bendix goes analogue in developing real world educational material BENDIX TECHNICIANS DEVELOPED THEIR OWN TAKE ON VIRTUAL REALITY WHEN CREATING SOME NEW EDUCATIONAL MATERIAL FOR THE TRADE

T

he brief for this poster was to visualize how parts work together in a car’s braking system. The Bendix team decided the best way to make it realistic was to forego computer graphics, order up a complete brake system in components and build it up as it would appear in a car — but without the car.

Measurements were taken and they made a rig complete with wheels to simulate the chassis of the car. The wheels were handy as they made it easier to move the rig around. It was painted white to make the target components stand out in the photographs.

That also made it easier to digitally edit the rig out of the image, to produce the effect of the braking system floating in white space.

The final result is a accurate yet simple and very effective educational poster.

The new poster will be distributed throughout the trade, training colleges and retailers — a practical example of Bendix’s support for the mechanic and trade training.

Contact your Bendix representative for a copy of the poster or for more information email brakeadvicecentre@bendix.com.au or see bendix.com.au.

t’s Wynn’s birthday but you get the presents! Wynn’s is offering Kiwis $20,000 in prizes through the Autoserv Scratchy Bonanza. If you are an automotive mechanical professional pick up any Wynn’s fuel, oil and coolant treatments, or related equipment, and you could scratch up a winner.

When you buy any Wynn’s product you will score a free scratch card. Simply match three panels and win the prize shown. Prizes include Wynn’s apparel, a Wynn’s fridge or even a Wynn’s fire pit. Wynn’s is celebrating its eighth decade since 70-year-old retired attorney Chestien Wynn discovered a formula he named Wynn’s Friction Proofing Oil that created a whole new market category of lubricant additives. Over the past 80 years Wynn’s has become a legendary automotive brand with products used and trusted by generations of workshop operators around the world. For more information see autoserv.co.nz

To get ahead of bad debt, front up AS HOUSEHOLD INCOME GETS SQUEEZED THE RISK OF CUSTOMERS NOT PAYING THEIR BILLS INCREASES. BLACKFERN CHIEF EXECUTIVE ROGER CASTLETON OFFERS SOME PROACTIVE TIPS TO REDUCE YOUR WORKSHOP’S RISKS

R

oger’s top tip is to get your terms of trade upfront with customers. This should not be a page of small print, but a simple, clear, wall sign, that staff should also know and understand.

It should state that you are a ‘cash business’. Some owners say this fact becomes obvious to customers if they don’t pay as they ‘don’t let the car go’. Roger says you should make it clear upfront that you reserve the right to retain the vehicle — but it’s not always the best solution. You might not have the room and if it’s a trade vehicle that will affect the customer’s ability to earn: you could face some liability. If you are going to offer credit as a way to pay, make it clear there are rules that must be complied to, so that it doesn’t drift on.

Your wall sign should contain a complaints procedure. This puts the onus back on the debtor/

customer to highlight any dissatisfaction within 14 days so they can’t use this as an excuse later. Having a process and making it clear gives you a strong hand if you end up in the Disputes Tribunal.

Storage fees should be listed on a daily dollar rate.

Make sure any late payment interest charges are also clear and reasonable. Suggest 10% as this is common among utilities. Anything above that could be considered ‘gouging’ and could be challenged.

You should also state that any collection costs or legal fees will be added on. Collections agencies can charge 15–30% of the overdue amount so it’s good practice to indicate what extra costs might be as a percentage.

You might also include a statement reserving the right to conduct credit checks, a handy precaution for high-cost jobs. Personal guarantees are also worth considering in today’s business climate.

Roger says Blackfern Cooperative can provide easyto-follow guidance for their members at no charge.

For more information, contact Roger on roger@blackfern.coop or see blackfern.coop Disclaimer: Please note the above article should not be interpreted as advice. They are suggestions only.

For legal advice, please contact a law professional.

7

TRW: the name on brake discs by ZF BEST KNOWN FOR ITS PREMIUM ZF AUTOMOTIVE TRANSMISSIONS AND DRIVELINE COMPONENTS, ZF AFTERMARKET ALSO OFFERS A FULL RANGE OF BRAKE DISCS FROM TRW every detail and doesn’t compromise on raw materials, or on machining tolerances.

All castings are made with top-quality GG20 material or GG15HC for High Carbon and TRW controls the mix to create the finest quality grey cast iron.

Machining tolerances are kept tight. The Disc Thickness Variation never exceeds 12 µm; the Run Out never exceeds 30 µm; and the central hole is fixed at H8 norm. That means hassle-free fitment and reliable performance, without surprises. A testing progamme also ensures each disc meets a range of stringent design criteria.

TRW also offers a range of brake discs with integrated bearings, toothed or magnetic ABS sensor rings and fixing accessories. That makes life easier when it comes to fitting, as these critical safety components are easily damaged when replacing discs. Old, worn or damaged bearing can also increase the risk of damage to the disc itself.

For more information see aftermarket.zf.com or call ZF Aftermarket via +61 02 9679 5555.

T

RW produces over 12 million brake discs worldwide every year for the independent aftermarket and for OEM customers.

TRW’s High Carbon Discs are designed to be the best solution for real-world conditions, so they exceed manufacturer specifications.

Discs made with high carbon have better thermal conductivity, allowing them to run cooler and deliver more consistent brake performance, better stability and higher scores on noise, vibration and harshness characteristics. High carbon discs are also less likely to distort, which means fewer

performance-related problems. To provide increased corrosion resistance and performance, TRW’s product development division has created an industry first–‘Black Painted’ brake discs. The special black paint adds a protective barrier against corrosion and the gloss finish to the disc looks good, too. The Black Painted range, packed in moisture-inhibiting VCI paper, can simply be taken out of the box and installed. TRW doesn’t need to coat them in oil or rust preventative that needs to be cleaned off before fitting, which saves installers both time and money.

When TRW designs original equipment, it controls

Coregas launches Trade N Go Gas system NOTING THAT RENTING GAS BOTTLES CAN GET EXPENSIVE FOR LOW-DEMAND USERS COREGAS IS BRINGING A ‘SWAPPA BOTTLE’ SERVICE TO THIS PART OF THE MARKET

C

oregas is set to revolutionize the gasbuying game in New Zealand with its Trade N Go Gas system.

The company has been around since 1974 but adopted this new name in New Zealand in 2016. Coregas prides itself on its customer service, safe and cost-effective products and innovation, and it spotted a weakness in the market. It set out to create what is essentially a ‘swappa’ system for ‘D’ size gas bottles similar to the system operating for LPG gas across the country.

Until now, DIYers and commercial users who use only small quantities of gas had to pay rental fees for their cylinders in order to have them on hand and ready to use. The answer, according to

8

Auto Channel Issue #10 February 2019

Coregas, was to offer a ‘trade and go’ system.

The Trade N Go Gas system includes the most commonly used gases: acetylene, oxygen, argon, and MIG shielding gas. Users simply pay a fully refundable deposit for a D-size cylinder plus the cost of the gas. They can either return the cylinder for a full refund of the deposit or trade it for another on the spot. Products include 1.0m³ D size acetylene, 2.1m³ D size oxygen, 2.1m³ D size argon and 2.1m³ D size MIG shielding gas.

Coregas’ nationwide network is continuously expanding, including participating Bunnings and NZ Safety Blackwoods stores, as well as its own service centres. Visit tradengogas.co.nz to see the full list of participating stores and to find out more.

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9

4x4 driving big business in bars THE TREND TO SUVS AND 4X4 UTES IS BUILDING A STRONG BUSINESS FOR AFTERMARKET METALWARE AND CEQUENT IS GROWING TO MEET THAT DEMAND

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owbars are at the heart of this aftermarket industry but supplying all the other metalwork that’s essential to a well-dressed or work-ready 4X4 — sport bars, nudge bars, alloy decks and let’s not forget tonneaus — is catching up fast.

Cequent is a major player in this business without having a high public profile and Sales Manager Darryl Maslin says it will stay that way. However the name is fast becoming familiar to the trade, as the supplier of the US-based Reese towing components, Advantage accessories, Hayman Reese towbars and soon, Rola roof racks.

Cequent is part of a global group focused on the towing and aftermarket segments. With manufacturing and distribution facilities covering New Zealand, Australia, Asia and the US, it’s a formula that has won 52% market share of the global towbar business.

Cequent introduced premium Australian brand Hayman Reese towbars and equipment to the New Zealand market mid-last year. A call to the market through Auto Channel for installers has seen 65 sign up, including most Midas outlets.

Darryl says Hayman Reese has been manufacturing towing equipment for 68 years. It is ISO9001 and QS9000 accredited and its testing facility is

accredited as a NATA laboratory to AS ISO/IEC 17025. Darryl says as part of the push into New Zealand it set up a New Zealand manufacturing plant, accredited to ISO TS16949 producing highvolume items locally, but Cequent supports the diverse New Zealand market through regular bulk imports of lower volume items.

“Installers and retailers of towing equipment are allergic to holding stock, like any other business, so we are set up to deliver these heavy freight items anywhere fast, North Island or South Island,” says Darryl.

Tow bars and 4x4 accessories are seeing strong organic growth here, especially as tradies prefer utes to the more capacious ‘white vans’ more common in the UK and European markets.

The next step in the strategy is to launch a retail and trade portal that simplifies the process of selecting, ordering and paying for towbars and booking installation locally. It also simplifies the process for installers, as parts ordering and payment is taken care of. “We are sending new customers to them and they have the chance to build the relationship with them for their other services and maybe in a few years, another tow bar,” says Darryl. He says the website will launch early this year. Call 0800 698 227 for more information

Auckland’s first Fasep wheel aligner goes to Drury Tires DRURY TIRES IS THE FIRST WHEEL AND TYRE SHOP IN AUCKLAND TO INSTALL THE NEW MOBILE FASEP WHEEL ALIGNER

D

rury Tires’ Anthony Wright says the new Fasep VOC-K aligner ticked all their boxes in the Bluetooth wheel aligner department. He says Drury Tires has two larger fixed alignment rigs so he was able to compare results. He says the Fasep unit checked out, which meant it could fulfil its primary role as mobile test unit. He says the unit’s unique clamps, which sit on the tyre instead of having to be clamped to a wheel, are simple to use “and within five minutes you’ve got a result”.

He also said the graphic printout was a great tool for customers. It meant non-technical customers could see for themselves where there was a problem and they didn’t have to try to interpret the numbers of degrees of toe, castor and camber.

“We found it incredibly easy to use and what goes hand in hand is the service,” says Anthony. It hadn’t gone unnoticed that Treadway Equipped opened up on a Saturday for him and that they provided two days training when competitors offered only one. Anthony was surprised to learn his was the first shop in Auckland to get the unit. “Come on Auckland, you’ll have to catch up with Drury Tires.”

Buy Value Tyres this month and score thousands of rewards points BLACKFERN IS OFFERING A POINTED REASON TO BUY MORE TYRES FROM VALUE TYRES LIMITED THIS MONTH, PUTTING 20,000 BLACKFERN REWARDS POINTS ON THE COUNTER

B

lackfern CEO Roger Castleton says any customer with an increased spend at Value Tyres this month will go in the draw to win one of two prizes of 10,000 Blackfern rewards points. Value Tyres is the exclusive supplier of Hankook tyres, alongside Triangle, Laufenn and other brands. Hankook is a world leader in R&D and is original equipment on marques such as Porsche, BMW, Mercedes, Audi and VW. Consumer New Zealand recently awarded the new Hankook Ventus Prime 3 ‘Consumer Recommends’ status. Bill Donaldson started Value Tyres Limited (VTL) as a sideline to his service station in Christchurch in the 1960s.

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Auto Channel Issue #10 February 2019

Still headquartered in Christchurch, VTL now has wholesale warehouses in Auckland (two locations), Hamilton, Tauranga, Napier, Wellington, Dunedin and Invercargill, offering 24-hour delivery anywhere in New Zealand and 2-hour delivery to many businesses. The next generation of Donaldsons is now running the business and forged the partnership with Blackfern. Since joining forces, VTL and Blackfern have enjoyed consistent growth, reflecting some New Zealanders’ preference for supporting other Kiwi businesses. “Keeping it Kiwi where we can, it was a no brainer for Blackfern and VTL to partner.” said Roger. For more information, go to blackfern.coop or call 027 252 2533.

All Equipment prices INCLUDE Delivery and Installation*

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For the full range of Heshbon equipment visit www.centurydistributors.co.nz

haymanreese.co.nz 0800 MY TBAR A CEQUENT NEW ZEALAND BRAND

Monday 11th February Regent Training Centre Kerikeri Tuesday 12th February Northtec Whangarei Wednesday 13th February UNITEC Mt Albert Campus Mt Albert

A call out to all...

Skilled Technicians, Workshop Owners, Trainees & Service Managers

Masterclass training nights are designed to keep the modern technician ahead of the industry by teaching essential diagnostic techniques for many vehicle systems.

Training topics Include: • Injector Testing with Current Clamps

Thursday 14th February Manurewa Cosmopolitan Club Takanini Monday 18th February Albany Executive Motor Inn Albany Tuesday 19th February WINTEC Polytechnic Hamilton Wednesday 20th February Bay Of Plenty Polytech Tauranga Thursday 21st February Western Institute of Technology New Plymouth Monday 11th March Universal College of Learning Palmerston North Tuesday 12th March WELTEC Petone Wellington

• MAF Diagnosis • Air Intake Control Systems • CAN Bus - Part 2 • Diagnostics with Fuel Trim • Alternative Combustion Cycle Engines

All attendees receive: • Technical manual • Certificate

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TODAY

• Light supper

Wednesday 13th March Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology Nelson Thursday 14th March Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology Blenheim Monday 18th March Otago Polytechnic - Cromwell Campus Cromwell Tuesday 19th March Southern Institute of Technology Invercargill Wednesday 20th March Otago Polytechnic G Block Dunedin Thursday 21st March ARA Polytechnic Christchurch

autotechstore.co.nz

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12

0800 472 787

Auto Channel Issue #10 February 2019

0800 200 100

Build a better business from the 2019 Auto Aftermarket Expo free seminar series THE 2019 AUSTRALIAN AUTO AFTERMARKET EXPO TAKING PLACE AT THE MELBOURNE CONVENTION AND EXHIBITION CENTRE 4–6 APRIL AIMS TO ATTRACT KIWI BUSINESSES WITH A COMPREHENSIVE SEMINAR SERIES

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he free seminars will take place on all of the three days of the event, which features more than 400 exhibitors and over 10,000 automotive service and repair industry

visitors.

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association CEO Stuart Charity says the organizers have lined up industry experts to explain how to build better automotive businesses. The seminar theme is ‘Understanding Emerging Trends and Developing Industry Leading Standards’.

“The seminar series has something to suit every automotive business no matter how large or small,” says Stuart.

The opening seminars focus on strategies for shaping a business’s future, understanding trends that will create ‘tomorrow’s customer’ and embracing innovation, regardless of business size.

Also on Friday, automotive aftermarket industry analysts Ben Selwyn and Steve Nuttall from ACA Research will present the 2019 Automotive Workshop Study. Their presentation will show how to increase service bay utilisation and labour efficiency for a more

connected cars and driverless technology.

and capabilities will also be revealed in a seminar called

profitable business.

Mechanic.com.au’s Neville Brady will blow the lid on

‘What’s on the Workshop Horizon’. The final expo free

Other seminars on Friday look upstream at transfer of

‘The Secrets to Building a Winning Workshop Team’ on

seminar with diesel expert Clinton Brett features an old

OEM technical information to independent workshops

Saturday, presenting tactics for finding, developing and

favourite: ‘Wrong Fuel in a Diesel Vehicle’.

under a mandatory data sharing code, followed by a

keeping the best technicians — clearly a crucial part of

The 2019 Australian Auto Aftermarket Expo will be held

demonstration of pass-through technology and how

the path to profitability in any automotive workshop.

concurrently with the 2019 Collision Repair Expo which

workshops can take full advantage of it.

This theme is developed in another seminar with

is focused on giving vehicle repairers a crash course on

Friday’s fourth seminar, ‘Vehicles and Technology:

an expert panel discussing continuous professional

new tech in its own seminar series. For free registration

Tomorrow’s World Today’ outlines the new challenges

development and creating an appetite for life-long

or more expo information, see

to automotive repairers such as electrification,

learning. The workshops of the future, its technology

autoaftermarketexpo.com.au.

Redarc launches next-generation Tow-Pro Elite Brake Controller REDARC ELECTRONICS HAS RELEASED THE NEXT-GENERATION OF ITS AWARD-WINNING ELECTRIC TRAILER BRAKE CONTROLLER, THE TOW-PRO ELITE

T

his third-generation controller, product

increased visibility.

code EBRH-ACCV3, retains the same

Software upgrades also promise smoother braking for

name as its predecessor Tow-Pro Elite,

heavy trailers and caravans.

Australasia’s favourite and most trusted

REDARC’s managing director, Anthony Kittel, said

brake controller. It also retains its industry-leading

customer feedback drove the update.

mode selection, ‘proportional’ for highways and

“The new and updated remote head will benefit those

sealed roads and ‘user-controlled’ for off-road

who install the product by simplifying the installation

driving.

process, ultimately saving them time. We are always

The new model simplifies installation of the new,

listening to what our customers say and looking to

smaller remote head unit and improves compatibility

exceed their expectations.”

with new vehicle technology. The installation process

The Tow-Pro Elite comes with a 2-year hassle-free

now requires only one hole to be drilled into the dash

warranty, technical support and after-sales service. For

and the new head unit has better illumination and

more information, see redarc.com.au/tow-pro-v3.

13

CTEK SHOWROOM BATTERY SUPPORT PROGRAMME

ADVANCED SHOWROOM VEHICLE BATTERY MAINTENANCE AND POWER SUPPLY SOLUTIONS

A good charger will avoid false diagnoses and possible penalties • ENSURE STARTS ON SHOWROOM VEHICLES • DEMONSTRATE VEHICLE ELECTRONICS WITH CONFIDENCE • INCREASE SHOWROOM EFFICIENCY

A PROFESSIONAL BATTERY CHARGER’S POWER SUPPLY MODE COULD BE A • PROTECT BRAND AND DEALER REPUTATION WORKSHOP’S BEST FRIEND VEHICLE BEFORE, DURING ANDIN AFTER SALE DIAGNOSTIC TESTING

The best of both worlds MOREY’S PRODUCT MIX COMBINES THE BEST TRADITIONAL BLEND FORMULAS WITH THE HIGHESTGRADE MODERN LUBRICANTS FOR MODERN ENGINES

M P

ower supply mode is possibly the most underrated feature of a professional charger, says Element 82’s John Wightman. His company has been distributing industry leading global brands of batteries, chargers and ancillaries since 2002.

A modern vehicle’s heavy load of electronics means maintaining specific and minimum voltages is critical, especially when using system diagnostics and during ECU flashing. And that can only be achieved with powerful regulated supply modes, says John.

A lot of dealership equipment reports back to OEMs during tests and any voltage fluctuations that could corrupt a test or create faults will be recorded, John says. Those workshops open themselves up to fines or worse. But the

workshop might not know until it’s too late because the readouts on second-rate chargers would still say they are operating just fine.

“The truth is there are products out there that will produce exactly the same readings on screen as ours but they are just not performing in the background,” says John.

He says the best way to ensure proper procedures are followed, and that workshops are not wasting time or replacing parts unnecessarily due to false reporting, is to use a high-power, quality, regulated supply of DC power from chargers like CTEK’s Professional Series.

And price is no guarantee of quality. “Our best recommendation is to use equipment that has a solid reputation for consistent high performance, quality build with global recognition,” John says.

orey Oil South Pacific Ltd is a privately-owned company established in 1982 dedicated to supplying high-quality lubricants.

It is headquartered in Auckland with Australian representation in Brisbane.

Products include Morey’s Heavy Duty Oil Stabilizer, Upper Cylinder Lubricant & Injector Cleaner for petrol engines and Diesel Smoke Killer & Injector Cleaner for diesel engines. It also produces food-grade lubricants for the food industry and lubricating greases for light and heavy machinery and industrial equipment, and marine applications. The company’s flagship product, the heavy-duty oil stabilizer, is still blended to the formula developed in 1950 by American engineer Clinton H Morey, and all products in the range maintain the brand’s excellent reputation for performance and quality. Quality control is managed in accordance with accreditation from ISO 9001 and ISO 14001. For more information, visit moreyoil.co.nz.

Schaeffler launches new dry and wet double clutch repair solution SCHAEFFLER IS THE FIRST TO MARKET WITH A REPAIR SOLUTION FOR DRY DOUBLE CLUTCHES IN THE AFTERMARKET INDUSTRY

D

ouble clutches change gears without any interruption of the power transmission. That offers drivers greater driving comfort and lower fuel consumption, but repair options for the aftermarket have been limited.

Schaeffler has extended the range of its LuK RepSet 2CT repair solution to include applications for Fiat, Renault and Smart models. It is also available for wet double clutches such as the VW Group’s Audi, Skoda, Seat and VW vehicles using the 7-speed DQ500 gearbox.

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Auto Channel Issue #10 February 2019

Schaeffler pioneered this technology for the aftermarket when it developed the LuK RepSet 2CT repair solution.

The latest versions cover Smart, Renault Captur and Clio, Fiats, Alfa Romeos and Jeeps with the 6-speed FPTC635 DDCT gearbox and for petrol and diesel Suzukis with the 6-speed TCSS transmission.

“With these new applications for both dry and wet double clutches we once again demonstrate our innovative power and years of competence in clutch repair,” said Schaeffler Automotive

Aftermarket’s Head of Transmission Systems, Rouven Daniel.

“Our global market coverage in the clutch segment is already 80% and this will increase further,” he said.

Every LuK RepSet 2CT kit comes with the double clutches, all the components required for repair, the appropriate special tools and detailed information about the technology and installation. For more information, installation videos and bonus points, see repxpert.com.au For more information, call Schaeffler Australia on 0800 585 462.

USE IT EVERYWHERE When inventor Tom Burden was a F16 mechanic in the Air National Guard he was often frustrated by tools sliding off the aircraft. The time wasted searching for lost hardware and climb­ ing up and down the ladder to access different tools lead Burden to look for solutions in the market. What Burden wanted was a simple way to secure his tools while protecting the multi-mil­ lion-dollar aircraft that he was assigned to service. Unable to find an adequate product he decided to make his own solution. With the skills gained as a mechanical engineering student, Burden started prototyping a non-slip rubberized tool tray. After three years of prototyping and perfecting, he created what is now called the Grypmat.

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2019 marks 20 years of Heshbon hoists in New Zealand IF YOU TAKE A LOOK INSIDE A MODERN VEHICLE WORKSHOP THERE’S A GOOD CHANCE THE HOIST WILL BE A DISTINCTIVE ULTRAMARINE BLUE

T

hat colour marks it out as a Heshbon hoist and, while it will continue getting on with the job, importers Century Distributors will be quietly celebrating 20 years since the first of them was installed in a New Zealand workshop.

Century Distributors General Manager Todd Jenkins is proud to have been part of building a strong following for the Heshbon brand, based on quality and reliability.

“We also pride ourselves on the fact that much of our business comes from repeat or referred customers,” says Todd.

The Heshbon brand was founded in Korea in 1991 to supply high quality automobile lifting equipment and it grew and developed with the expanding automotive servicing industry.

Safety is critical in the hoist business and the company invested in research and development to keep pushing forward with the quality and reliability of its products. It achieved ISO9001 certification in 1996 and ISO14001 in 2006. Today, every Heshbon hoist carries the European CE mark indicating it has met a range of safety, health, environment and consumer protection targets in its manufacture.

Todd says Heshbon offers one of widest ranges of vehicle lifts in New Zealand. “Across the 2-post, 4-post and scissor ranges there is sure to be the right Heshbon hoist for any application,” he says.

That’s why the Heshbon blue is a well-known colour in Kiwi workshops but any hoist can be ordered in the colour of your choice at no extra cost.

Todd says all popular models are kept in stock, ready to go out the door the same day, if need be.

All Heshbon hoists are sold including delivery and installation. Some conditions apply, but it means there are no hidden costs or surprises.

“We are very pleased to be celebrating this anniversary with Heshbon, which is a testament to product quality, and the company’s commitment

to achieve a safer and more efficient working environment for our customers,” Todd says.

For more information visit centurydistributors.co.nz.

Narva delivers light, and now sound NARVA IS ADDING AUDIO TO ITS EXPERTISE IN LIGHTING, LAUNCHING A NEW AND PATENTED RANGE OF LED AUDIO LIGHTS

T

hese battery-powered worklights with built-in Bluetooth audio speakers will work just as well at off-the-grid camping spots this summer as they do in the workshop or on the building site.

Three models offer 600, 2000 and 5000 Lumens of light, combined with high-quality speakers that deliver

16

Auto Channel Issue #10 February 2019

solid sound at impressive volume, up to 84±3dB. They will sync with Bluetooth audio devices over a range of up to 20m and remember the last connection, making them easy to fire up again. They are ideal whenever you want additional light, to see under a bonnet or into a dark corner, and a decent soundtrack, especially when a power cord would be a hassle.

The 600 Lumen 71400 unit, a compact hand-held light with a 90-degree rear bracket and magnetised base, will shine at full power for two hours and at half power for four hours.

The 2000 lumen 71404 Audio Light is water and dust resistant to IP67 making it more suitable for outdoor use. It can be operated both corded or as a rechargeable unit, offering 2.5-to-12 hours light using a dimmer to select the power output. The 5000 Lumen 71406 unit takes the power up and out to 1.5to-17.5 hours of operation. Height adjustable stands are also available.

“If you are going camping this summer, spending an evening at the beach or just relaxing outside, you’re going to want to have music and outdoor lighting, and NARVA ALS Audio Lights offer both in a single product,” says Griffiths Equipment’s National Sales Manager, Tim Paterson. “And the best thing is that you don’t need a power connection because they can be used remotely, and they are rechargeable.”

Both larger units also have USB ports so they can be used as power banks for recharging other mobile devices. All NARVA ALS Audio Light models are impact-resistant. They have high-quality aluminium housings and are covered by a two-year warranty. For more information, go to narva.co.nz.

AVAILABLE FROM

17

New Cars

Citroën C4 Cactus It looks different and feels much better What is it?

French, characterful and definitely worth a look for someone who is bored with the focus- group-driven trend towards blandness and conformity. The Citroën C4 Cactus is not immune to this trend as, like other new cars, it joins the crossover category, between hatches and soft-road SUVs, but it has created something unique in the process.

It retains Citroën’s penchant for rubber panels and its two-tiered face with LED daytime driving lights sitting a row above more conventional headlights announces this car’s determination to be different. The Cactus model aims to blend the advantages of an SUV with the comfort of its standard C4 hatch.

What is interesting about it?

Citroën built its reputation on innovative engineering

paired with softer padding, providing comfort and support

relaxing environment of the Cactus will be revelation

and especially in its suspension design. Famously, the

and a very different feel to the cabin to usual European, or

to many Kiwi drivers. It genuinely offers a different and

hydropneumatic suspension in the old Citroën DS not

at least German, fare.

eminently sensible alternative that really works on New

only delivered a ‘magic carpet ride’, with the flick of a few

Zealand roads. As you’d expect, it comes loaded with all

levers you could cock one wheel in the air to change it

Is it any good?

kinds of driver assist technologies, a reversing camera,

without the aid of jacks. Well, Citroën have dug back into

For many years we have been fed a diet of saloons with

front and rear parking sensors, speed limit recognition and

its heritage for this one highlighting the Cactus’s hydraulic

firmer suspension which have provided usefully positive

recommendation, blind spot monitoring, front collision

cushion suspension system. The cushions sit within the

handling on New Zealand’s often winding and sometimes

warning, auto emergency braking up to 140km/h, auto

dampers and are designed to absorb and dissipate the

crudely-formed roads. This proved handy conditioning for

high beam control, driver attention alert, lane departure

energy from big bumps — the sort usually dealt with by

the large number of drivers who then went the whole hog

warning and even a coffee break alert after two hours a

the mechanical stop at the end of a conventional shock

and transitioned into 4X4 light trucks and utes as family

highway speeds. Propulsion is courtesy of a 1.2 litre engine

absorber’s travel. As you don’t want to hit that too often,

vehicles, many of which still ride like trucks, on their ancient

and six-speed auto, delivering 81kW and 205Nm for

springs are usually made made firmer than they need to be

cart springs. Rural France had similarly rumpty roads but

5.3l/100km.

most of the time. Citroën’s solution has left the suspension

French designers dealt with this by offering long-travel

designer free to tune the system for more comfort over

suspension and comfort. The large, almost lounge like

What’s it going to cost?

regular road surfaces, while still being able to take the

seats, soft materials and the uncluttered cabin create a

The fun comes in choosing from 81 exterior options and

heavy blows. Interestingly, Citroën also talks about the

different ambience. And extensive acoustic insulation — a

three interior options. The new C4 Cactus hatch is on sale

comfort technology in its seats which are notably more

boon when it comes to driving on coarse Kiwi chipseal

now from $35,990. For more information, see

cosseting than standard fare. The high density foam is

— and attention to door seals offers a quiet, calm and

citroen.co.nz.

Audi Q8

The new face of Audi’s Q family although it can transfer more power forwards or backwards depending on traction. Driving modes include an off-road setting that raises ride height 50mm, and the four-wheel steering makes the big car fairly easy to place. The car also features mild hybrid technology (MHEV) which means it has a lithium-ion battery in the boot, allowing the engine to switch off in in low demand driving such as a steady state cruise. When the engine is needed again a ‘belt-alternator starter’ spins it smoothly back into play. The end result is fuel consumption more like that of a small saloon.

Driver assist technology includes adaptive cruise, crossing assist, lane change warning, curb warning and 360 degree cameras. Driver assistance is computer controlled using data from five radar sensors, six cameras, 12 ultrasound sensors and a laser scanner. Apart from its What is it?

What is interesting about it?

new face, the Audi will also be noticeable for its 24 LED

The Q8 is a brutish SUV with the bluff new face first

The Audi, as you’d expect from a prestige brand, is laden

matrix headlights and 3D tail lights with 12 segments, and

seen on the new A8 mated with a long coupe style

with tech and it’s front and centre in the cockpit where

a full width strip across the back like other top of the line

roofline designed to amp up its luxury car credentials.

large screens including a customizeable dash dominate

Audis.

The styling is dominated by the 20-inch wheels and

the view. Its touchscreen offers a wealth of options but

guards with subtle bulges that pay homage to the

familiarity quickly sorts out the functions you want and

What’s it going to cost?

original Quattro. For those who want a tall rear end

which can be demoted.

The Audi Q8 3.0 TDI has an eight-speed gearbox and is

for the load space, or their tall dogs, there’s still

Q stands for Quattro and four-wheel drive. Power is

available in 11 colours some equally as bold as its styling

the Q7.

distributed by a centre differential at 40:60 as standard,

for $149,999 plus optional extras and on road costs.

18

Auto Channel Issue #10 February 2019

Jaguar I-Pace

It’s already racking up sales here but doesn’t launch until April

What is it?

challenge to Tesla. The I-Pace, according to overseas

week’s worth of driving for most Kiwis. Now that electric

An electric Jaguar. When a carmaker with the

reviews offers a thrilling driving experience due in part

vehicles are hitting these ranges, the naysayers are

performance credentials, race history and iconic status

to the dynamics of its twin electric motors, one over

quieting down, although I never got their point. The range

of Jaguar offers an all-electric vehicle — and it looks like

each axle. It’s heavy, thanks to 600kg of batteries, but

of petrol or diesel-powered vehicles is fairly arbitrary, and

being a best-seller for the brand — you know the market

apparently it feels very nimble thanks to its power packs’

while refuelling one is a faff, that doesn’t apply to electric

has flipped. The future is now. The day when we think

low centre of gravity — 130mm lower than Jaguar’s

vehicles. People ask how long they take to recharge but

setting petrol on fire in metal tubes, causing massive

F-Pace. The electric motor pumps out 400PS and 696NM

the answer, for the operator, is about 10 seconds, when

lumps of metal to thrash about in an ‘engine’ just to get

of instant torque, and it can whisk passengers to 100kph

they plug it in.

from A to B was a crazy idea is not that far away. It will

in just 4.8 seconds. It can play petrol engine sounds

Having an electric vehicle that will comfortably cover

be like looking back on the time — within many people’s

through the stereo to the nostalgic but surely most buyers

your daily drive should be the main criteria. If you go on

lifetimes — when it was perfectly normal for passengers

will welcome the electric car’s near silent background to

the occasional long trip, there are plenty of other options

in aircraft to set fire to paper tubes full of weeds and suck

any chosen audio input. The lack of mechanical bits also

that you can easily afford out of your fuel savings. But

on them, and hope they didn’t fall asleep before putting

means there’s plenty of cabin space in its cab-forward

the Jaguar is a different kind of electric car. It’s for drivers

them out. The I-Pace is a real Jaguar with a muscular

design, especially in the back, despite being a smidge

looking for the traditional Jaguar strengths, space, pace

road presence, the front end even more so than other

shorter overall than an F-Pace. The regenerative braking,

and grace.

Jaguars. It combines serious power and performance

which puts power back in the battery, especially in traffic,

Jaguar NZ General Manager Steve Kenchington says the

with the luxury and comfort the brand is famous for, and

apparently feels normal. However, you can select more

I-Pace has already exceeded expectations internationally

it’s dramatically different from its predecessors.

regenerative braking so it’s apparently possible just to

and more than 50 deposits have been taken from around

drive the car with the accelerator, and go even further.

New Zealand, even ahead of pricing being announced,

What is interesting about it?

Jaguar is touting a range of 470km for those that like that

and now that he has a demonstrator vehicle on hand he

Jaguar is the first of big luxury brands to enter this

sort of thing, and it has been verified in strict European

expects more will be slapped down.

market with an all electric car and it provides the first real

tests in mixed driving conditions. That’s got to be over a

The Jaguar comes with user-selectable dashboard in its glass cockpit and uses artificial intelligence to customise interior and driving settings to each driver. It comes with a five-year free service plan and an eight-year or 160,000km transferable battery warranty.

What’s it going to cost?

The Jaguar I-PACE will retail from $159,900 for the S model, with an SE model from $169,900. The HSE model on 20” alloys also adds matrix headlights, a gesture tailgate, 18-way leather seats, 825W Meridian surround sound, surround cameras and adaptive cruise control with steer assist. It starts at $179,900.

That’s still a lot of money, but you can pay a lot more Teslas, even if the dear ones have got funky doors. And if you factor in the fuel and service costs you will avoid for five years, the I-Pace should really only be compared with cars in lower price brackets. It’s a clear winner.

19

The Science of Driveshaft Angles DRIVELINE VIBRATIONS ARE NOT ONLY ANNOYING, BUT CAN SERIOUSLY WRECK STUFF, TOO. HERE’S A WAY TO CHECK YOUR UNI JOINT ANGLES, AND ENSURE EVERYTHING IS RUNNING SMOOTHLY

I

f you’re building a car, it’s easy to get carried

physics and geometry, but don’t worry if you weren’t

forces acting on it are going to be a bit more inclined to

away with choosing go-fast parts and playing the

paying attention in school, because it doesn’t have to

try to break it free, especially if there is something out of

numbers game, but once you get to the driveline

be hard.

whack — balance, or the universal joint operating angles’

there’s a practical aspect that is often overlooked

Spin something, and you’ll subject it to the principle of

tolerance.

— one that can poorly affect the way your finished

inertia — the resistance of an object to a change in its

Of course, those are two extremes. In the real world,

build drives.

state of motion — defined in Isaac Newton’s first law.

any wayward forces will most likely manifest themselves

It’s to do with your driveshaft, but we’re not just talking

The quicker an inert object moves, the greater the forces

in a driveline vibration. This is where things can get

balancing. Get the universal joint angles wrong, and you

upon it. Slowly rotate your driveshaft while crawling

confusing, because the first suspect is almost always a

could be running in circles trying to correct the driveline

along at 20kph, and everything will be hunky dory. Whip

poorly-balanced driveshaft — even when that might not

vibration that just won’t go away. We’re talking about

it up to 4500rpm while doing a big old burnout, and the

be the case.

Case Study It’s generally accepted that in a front-engine, rearwheel drive vehicle, the diff pinion angle should be pretty close to the angle of the engine and transmission.

But, when it comes to vehicles with a two-piece shaft, things get a whole lot more confusing. Steve Gooch’s encountered countless issues with his Thunderbird, in part due to the power its twin-turbo 416ci Windsor was making. After methodically working his way through them, Steve was left scratching his head at a persistent driveline vibration at around 190kph and up. After even more research, he came to the conclusion that his two-piece driveshaft was the cause of the problems, but do you think he could find any information about the optimal set-up for two-piece driveshafts? Nope — as they’re primarily the reserve of new vehicles, optimal universal joint operating angles are sorted during vehicle development. In an aftermarket application like Steve’s, the best you could really do was educated guesswork. “I’d been chasing a high-speed vibration after the drags and found a really good website. If you google ‘Spicer driveshaft torsional analysis’ there is a cool calculator,” Steve explained. “Driveshaft angles, especially on a two-piece, are like rocket science. I could not find any good info until I found that Spicer page.” The information he discovered was enough to help him get to the bottom of the issue, as you’ll see.

Step one — gather data Steve purchased a digital protractor online, which was necessary to accurately identify all angles involved in the driveline. The angles and measurements required are listed to the side, and all angles and slopes should be identified from the driver's (left) side of the vehicle: Maximum driveshaft rpm (divide highest rpm by lowest

Rear shaft: -2.3 degrees, down slope

IMPORTANT NOTE: DOWN, UP

transmission ratio)

Length (inches) of each driveshaft, from the centre of

It’s important to note that the Spicer Parts calculator

Max rpm (5500) / lowest transmission ratio (1) — this is

uni-joint to uni-joint

refers to the slope of a component in terms of where

for the 1:1 top gear in Steve’s TH400. If his transmission

Front shaft: 22.8 inches

its rear sits relative to its front. If the rear is lower than

had a 0.78:1 top gear, we’d divide by 0.78 = 5500

Rear shaft: 36.6 inches

the front, the item is on a down slope. The opposite

Angle and slope of driving member (transmission)

Angle and slope of driven member (diff)

means an up slope. Why this is so important to note

Measured using digital protractor against output yoke

Measured using digital protractor against diff yoke

is with regards to diff pinion angles. The pinion angle

-3.1 degrees, down slope

-0.5 degrees, down slope

is almost always on an upward slant, but for the

Angle and slope of each driveshafts

Offset of any components (viewed from top down)

purposes of this calculator, it must be measured as a

Front shaft: -1.7 degrees, down slope

N/A

down slope, as the rear sits lower than the front.

20

Auto Channel Issue #10 February 2019

Step two — input data Now we’ve collected all the relevant measurements, we need to visit the Spicer Parts website to find their Torsional Analysis Calculator. This is located at the following URL: spicerparts.com/calculators/torsional-analysiscalculator. The calculator uses several complex formulae to interpret your data, and provides a number of final values to interpret. The rotational speed of the driveshafts is measured in radians per second (rad/sec), and using Steve’s measurements above, gave the following results.

Inertia Effects (driving member) Degrees: 1.89 Rad/Sec: 359.7 Inertia Effects (driven member) Degrees: 2.47 Rad/Sec: 618.4 Torsional Effects Degrees: 2.20 Rad/Sec: 489.1 How do we interpret these? Well, the Spicer Parts calculator tells us how to do that.

Inertia effects — Maximum 1000 Rad/Sec/Sec Inertia Effects (driving member) — usually caused by a large operating angle at drive end of driveshaft.

Inertia Effects (driven member) — usually caused by a large operating angle at driven end of driveshaft.

Torsional effects — Maximum 300 Rad/Sec/Sec Usually caused by large, unequal operating angles, or out-of-phase driveshafts. As such, we can see that the torsional effects are the most likely cause of Steve’s driveline vibration. This can, in theory, be remedied by evening out the driveline angles. The inertia effects at the driven member (diff) are also higher than ideal, which can be remedied by altering the diff pinion angle, to reduce the angle between it and the rear driveshaft.

Adjusting the centre bearing height can help to reduce the negative effects of excessive inertia or torsional effects on the driveline -0.5°

-2.3°

-1.7°

-3.1°

Step three — input data Before adjusting anything, Steve experimented with the calculator, changing several values to get an idea of how different alterations would affect the final outcome. It’s worth noting that changing one angle will affect the angles of both shafts, as they are connected.

By doing this, Steve discovered that by inserting a higher pinion angle, and lowering the driveshaft centre hanger, the figures would become more acceptable. The process of actually working through adjustments on the car is tedious and time consuming, even with a rough idea of what needs to be done. Steve replaced the hanger bearing mounting shims with a pile of flat washers, in order to lower the centre joint, while adjusting the diff pinion angle. Eventually, he arrived at the following figures, which yielded a satisfactory outcome.

Knowing that the driveshaft operating angle should be fine, Steve measured the total height of flat washers added to the hanger bearing mounts, and had the shims machined down to suit, safely keeping the centre joint in its optimal position.

21

Maximum driveshaft rpm (divide highest rpm by lowest transmission ratio)

Max rpm (5500) / lowest transmission ratio (1) 5500 Angle and slope of driving member (transmission)

Measured using digital protractor against output yoke –3.1 degrees, down slope New angle and slope of each driveshaft Front shaft: –2.15, down slope Rear shaft: –1.7, down slope Length of each driveshaft, from the centre of uni joint to uni joint Front shaft: 22.8 inches Rear shaft: 36.6 inches New angle and slope of driven member (diff)

Measured using digital protractor against diff yoke –1.4 degrees, down slope Offset of any components (viewed from top down) NA

This gave the following inertia and torsional effects: Inertia effects (driving member) Degrees: 1.27 Rad/sec: 161.9 Inertia effects (driven member) Degrees: 0.15 Rad/sec: 2.30 Torsional effects Degrees: 0.89 Rad/sec: 79.8

IMPORTANT NOTE: PINION ANGLE Not all cars will be able to have the pinion angle adjusted. In Steve’s case, the Thunderbird has aftermarket adjustable upper arms, allowing this to be done. Extending the arms raises the pinion relative to the base of

All in the clear! The final test took place at Meremere Dragway — the only place, other than a dyno, where Steve could safely test for a driveline vibration at over 190kph. All calculations, and their definitions, were sourced through spicerparts.com. Thanks to Steve Gooch and Endeavour Motors for their help in making this article happen.

-1.4°

22

Auto Channel Issue #10 February 2019

-1.7°

-2.15°

-3.1°

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New Napa branch network to change the Australasian automotive parts landscape GPC ASIA PACIFIC IS UNIFYING ITS TRADE AND SPECIALIST BUSINESSES TO DELIVER A MARKET LEADING OFFER UNDER ONE OF THE WORLD’S MOST ICONIC AUTOMOTIVE BRANDS, NAPA

T

he NAPA business will service the

Asia Pacific CEO and Managing Director. “Against the

About GPC Asia Pacific

trade workshop, mining, industrial, and

backdrop of these and other trends, GPC Asia Pacific is

GPC Asia Pacific is the largest automotive aftermarket

commercial markets across Australia

embarking on a transformational strategic realignment

parts supplier in Australia and New Zealand. We resell

and New Zealand, operating seamlessly

and simplification of our organisation, optimizing each

and distribute automotive replacement parts, accessories

alongside GPC Asia Pacific’s iconic Repco business.

part of our business to ensure we are best placed to meet

and related tools and equipment through a network of

Repco will continue to service trade and retail

the needs of our customers well into the future.”

556 stores, 12 advanced distribution centres and a team

customers from its unrivalled Australasian store

NAPA will combine GPC Asia Pacific’s existing trade and

of more than 6200 dedicated team members. Our scale,

network. Collectively, these two powerful businesses

specialist businesses to become Australasia’s largest trade

buying power and unmatched logistics give us market

will position GPC Asia Pacific to continue to provide

focused automotive parts business, operating across a

leading positions across a number of segments, with

the first choice for automotive parts, accessories and

network of 125–140 branches, and supported by access

annual sales of more than A$1.5 billion.

solutions to customers throughout Australia and New

to global leading edge initiatives across telematics,

With a rich history in Australia and New Zealand’s

Zealand. NAPA is one of the world’s largest suppliers

electric vehicles, workshop technology and connectivity,

automotive and engineering industries, along with nearly

of automotive parts and accessories, with a heritage

data analytics, training programs, and inventory solutions.

100 years of operational experience, GPC Asia Pacific’s

stretching back to 1925. As part of the US$14.1bn global

Repco will be complimentary to NAPA, continuing to

brands are synonymous with quality and reliability in the

Genuine Parts group, NAPA operates 81 distribution

operate its proven dual trade and retail store format,

automotive aftermarket, and have enormous recognition

centres and supports approximately 6,740 NAPA Auto

located in more locations across metropolitan and

across our region.

Parts stores across North America. NAPA is renowned

regional Australasia than any other parts reseller, ensuring

We service our vast trade and retail market by holding more

for its product quality, depth and breadth; its highly

Repco is putting automotive parts and accessories where

than 80,000 SKUs in our permanent product range, with

trained personnel and service capabilities; and its state-

Australia and New Zealand’s trade mechanics and retail

access to a further 1,000,000 items via our global network

of-the-art technology offer.

customers need them.

of suppliers, supporting more than 36,000 trade customers

GPC Asia Pacific’s trade and specialist businesses

“I am excited by the opportunity that this transformation

and countless retail consumers.

have been providing customers with expertise, strong

offers to our customers, as well as our employees and

partnerships and genuine service in Australia and New

supplier partners,” Mr Cameron further noted.

Zealand for nearly 90 years. Whilst in Repco, GPC Asia

“By simplifying our structure, we will be faster to market,

Pacific operates Australasia’s longest standing, largest,

and be more responsive to the changing needs of all of

and pre-eminent automotive parts and

our customers. Being part of Genuine Parts Company

accessories distributor.

delivers the scale of a global organisation, with access

“We are closely watching the transformation of the

to the latest products, solutions, technology and training

automotive parts distribution market in Australia and

that brings, whilst our innovative culture, national

New Zealand, driven by changing technology and

presence, and seamless logistics enable the pace and

industry consolidation,” said Mr Rob Cameron, GPC

agility of a local business.”

Rob Cameron, GPC Asia Pacific CEO and Managing Director

24

Auto Channel Issue #10 February 2019

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Step Step Step1:1: 1: Choose Choose storage Choosestorage storage

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Remove Remove each each tool tool trays trays removable removable lid,lid, Remove each tool trays removable lid, click click thethe trays trays together together and and place place them them click the trays together and place them into into your your Teng Teng Tools Tools storage storage option. option. into your Teng Tools storage option. tengtools@tengtools.co.nz tengtools@tengtools.co.nz tengtools@tengtools.co.nz facebook.com/TengToolsNZ facebook.com/TengToolsNZ facebook.com/TengToolsNZ www.tengtools.co.nz/2010 www.tengtools.co.nz/2010 www.tengtools.co.nz/2010 www.tengtools.com www.tengtools.com www.tengtools.com

25

SpeedE® – the first e-screwdriver from Wiha WIHA’S NEW ELECTRIC SCREWDRIVER FOR ELECTRICIANS HAS A BAG FULL OF TRICKS WHICH SHOULD TRANSLATE TO LESS TIME ON THE JOB. IT’S MULTIPLE CHARMS HAVE WON IT A GOLD AWARD AT THE GERMAN DESIGN AWARDS.

T

he German Design Award applies strict

enables users to work faster and more efficiently with a

electrical wholesalers and tool specialists in three

standards. The expert German Design

natural action.

starter set variants. Each set includes the electric

Council committee only invites products

The electric drive handles tiring screw-fastening

screwdriver, two rechargeable batteries, a portable

and services that stand out from rivals due

significantly faster than manual drivers. The

battery charger, a sturdy Sortimo L-BOXX to carry

to their design quality.

manufacturers calculate the speedE® gets things

everything and an assortment of suitable slimBits and

This latest award caps a successful launch year for

done at least twice as fast. When fully charged,

easyTorque torque adapters with content depending on

Wiha’s speedE® after it won the Focus Open Special

speedE® can fasten electrically up to 800 times, and

the variant.

Mention 2018 award and the Eisen Award 2018 during

it uses standard rechargeable batteries, which controls

Wiha also offers a broad range of electrically safe tools

the Cologne International Hardware Fair in March 2018.

maintenance costs.

including pliers, cutters, longnose and water pump

It’s electric and fastens screws up to twice as fast as

The Wiha e-screwdriver is comparable to normal

pliers, and standard screwdrivers, all tested to 10,000V

other drivers, but from just 0.4 Nm it will disengage to

screwdrivers in terms of size and weight making

and rated to 1000V. The range also includes 1000V

ensure sensitive screw heads and threads are protected.

it an ideal, portable companion. Pairing it with the

open-ended spanners from 8mm to 17mm and 1000V

The user can then finish fixing the screw by hand,

Wiha slimBit range will be of particular interest to

1/2in and 3/8in socket sets with individually insulated

just as with a conventional screwdriver. An innovative

electricians, mechanics and auto electricans because

sockets from 8mm to 24mm.

electric ratchet function assists users as they complete

they are tested to 10,000V AC and rated to 1000V AC.

Pricing starts from $299.95. More details are available

fastening. This unique three-step SpeedE process

The Wiha speedE® is available to users from specialist

from lp.wiha.com/speede/.

26

Auto Channel Issue #10 February 2019

QUALITY EV TOOL KIT 30pcs Electric Vehicle Tool Kit

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Products

The latest automotive products

A brilliant heavy-duty tow-bar step The Hayman Reese LED Hitch Step is an easy-fit rear step with built-in ultra-bright LED lights. The step makes it easy to reach deeper into utes, vans and on top of SUVs, while also providing powerful, securely mounted rear lighting for attaching trailers in the dark, for reversing, or whenever you need it. Its unique, non-slip, aluminium checker plate construction gives you a sturdy and safe platform for loading and unloading cargo.

Designed to fit most towbar tongues and towball mounts, the LED Hitch Step comes prewired with a 7-pin flat plug to suit most vehicle configurations and a multi-function switch to work with reverse lights and park lights. It can also be configured to specific vehicles.

Call 0800 698227 for more information.

Narva’s ultimate driving light NARVA has taken the technology and performance of its Ultima 175 LED on- and off-road driving lamps to the next level with its new Ultima 225 LEDs. Aimed at commercial vehicles or four-wheel-drives with bigger bull bars, the new Ultima 225 LED blasts white light up to 730 metres down the road. Three 15W Cree XHP LEDs produce a calculated 11,400 raw lumens and a high colour rendering index of 70 which translates into good clarity and depth perception with lower glare. The virtually unbreakable hard-coated polycarbonate lens and glass-reinforced polymer housing are sealed against water and dust to IP67. The adjustable mounting hardware is stainless steel, has a four-position mounting bracket, an integrated aluminium crush tube and DT connector. The lamps draw just 4.6A at 12V and the LEDS have a 5-year warranty. See NARVA’s demonstration at narva.com.au/vrexperience.

REDARC introduces new SmartCharge battery charger range REDARC has teamed up with Norwegian innovator DEFA to bring a range of co-branded smart battery chargers to the New Zealand market. The AC to DC unit is designed to automatically charge and maintain most 12V automotive starter and auxiliary batteries including lithium (LiFeP04) batteries. Available in, 4, 6, 8 and 10A variants they are perfect for charging car, bike and boat batteries. The 8 and 10A variants will also handle the bigger batteries used in caravans, campers and RVs. The smarts in the SmartCharge range recognize the type of battery they are connecting to and adjust their charging process to suit. They have one-button operation, a backlit status display and an IP65 meaning it can be used in damp and outdoor environments. The SmartCharge range is shockproof, sparkproof and is protected against reverse polarity meaning that nothing can go wrong. The SmartCharge range is covered by a five-year warranty. To learn more, visit redarc.co.nz/smart-chargers.

Give your CVT a chance at a longer life

Purists look away now

Some continuously variable transmissions might not get the love they need to last as long as they could so Wynn’s has developed a two-part fluid change kit specifically for CVTs. Add Wynn’s Transmission Cleaner to remove harmful deposits and clean transmission components before changing the oil. Then add Continuously Variable Transmission Enhancer to increase the pressure properties of the new fluid and reduce metal to metal wear in the transmission, protecting against shudder and fluid oxidation. For more information, see autoserv.co.nz.

The tough crew at Tuff Mounts just don’t care who they upset because they are still going to sell their new Tuff Mounts LS engine conversion kits for XAXF/XG Falcons. They are a direct bolt-up fitment, 100-per-cent captive and guaranteed unbreakable. Ignore the outrage and get one now at Rare Spares NZ or tuffmounts.com.au.

28

Auto Channel Issue #10 February 2019

A lighter, stronger column lift

Wheely fast alignment

Maha’s wireless RGA 7.5T electric hoist, featuring a unique ball race worm drive, is compact and up to 25% lighter than hydraulic lifts, with no risk of leaks. The slender H-beam construction is stronger than welded box section and the units’ electric motors offer millimetre-accurate adjustment. The ballrace in the threaded rod reduces friction and operates at better than 90% efficiency. They have a five-year warranty and offer 20 years of almost maintenance free life. The motor’s engine brake remains engaged when not in use and a redundant back-up elevator-type emergency lock means no manual lock-setting or progressive wear of mechanical locks. The mobile, wireless lifts run on deep cycle batteries and offer 25–35 lifts on a single charge, which can be recharged via a 10-amp socket. For more information, see automaster.co.nz.

Fasep’s VCO-K wheel aligner cuts preparation time by up to 80 percent, mostly thanks to its patented contact clamps which sit on the tyres, rather than attaching to the rims. The unit is mobile and its radio frequency technology means you don’t need the car on the hoist. It can be used anywhere in the yard.

The added value comes in the ability to do an alignment check in a couple of minutes on every tyre change, which is an easy upsell to customers. The Fasep software is intuitive, simple to use, and produces graphic printouts that operators and customers can easily understand. You can also create custom vehicles and specifications. For more information, contact treadwayequipped.co.nz or call 0800 436 436 for a demo.

Take a steer from TRW A vehicle’s steering linkage assembly, which connects the front wheels, is unquestionably a mission-critical component and not an area for compromise.

TRW’s steering linkage components are built to the highest original equipment standards, are corrosion resistant and light weight. The range consists of more than 4800 steering and suspension parts, from stabilizer links and tie-rod ends to front and rear toe links, idler arms, pitman arms and bellows. TRW’s tie-rod ends use a two-seat design as standard, avoiding the need for a spring, thus extending the life of the part. TRW also offers corrosion-resistant glass-fibre reinforced plastic stabilizer links that are lighter and offer superior vibration damping — but proven steel linkages remain an option if space is limited. TRW steering linkage components are available through ZF Aftermarket. For more information see trwaftermarket.com.

CTEK’s solution to ‘all show and no go’ No-one wants to see a vehicle sale sabotaged by a flat battery. Simply opening a modern car’s door wakes up several control modules that can draw on the battery for several minutes. Add in demonstrations of other features like seats, sunroofs, tailgates and stereos and a few cycles will deplete a battery enough to prevent the vehicle starting. CTEK offers proactive battery care with a range of showroom chargers from 10 Amp to 70 Amp that keep showroom vehicles performing at their best. Separate ‘comfort indicators’, or BatterySense Bluetooth-enabled devices can show battery condition of vehicles in the showroom for easy management or customer after sales care. For information on the CTEK showroom battery support range, contact Element 82 on 09 476 4171.

Electric screwdriver for electricians German brand Wiha is offering an electric screwdriver that does it all. It can fasten screws automatically and twice as fast as a normal screwdriver but it also has a protection function that activates when 0.4 Nm is reached — handy, saving sensitive screwheads. Users can then continue fastening by hand. Installing Wiha’s insulationprotected slimBits means they can also safely work with voltages up to 1000V. The SpeedE is comparable to a standard screwdriver in size, weight and format, and it picked up a gold award in the latest German Design Awards. For more information see wiha.com/en-nz.

29

Squirt out a better gasket

Morey’s Red-i EP2 Watersport Marine Grease

J-B Weld has the right gasket maker solution for everything from waterproofing to hightemperature, high-pressure gasket applications. Suited to old and new vehicles, silicone gaskets offer outstanding oil-resistance, excellent torque retention and sensor-safe properties.The sealants are all 100-per-cent silicone and the range includes both Acetoxy and Ultimate Oxime formulations. The Acetoxy range is ideal for general automotive and other applications. The Ultimate Oxine range is formulated for high temperature applications; it is highly-resistant to oil and grease and, as it doesn’t have an acetic acid base, it is sensor-safe.

The range comes in black, grey, blue, red, clear and copper formulations with the different applications clearly stated on the blister packs. They are also available in the larger cartridge packs for professional use. For more information, see griffithsequipment.co.nz.

Morey’s Red-i marine grease is ideal for boat trailer wheel bearings including disc brake applications, trailer chassis lubrication and outboards. It is recommended for extreme pressure protection, exceeding 39kg in the Timken OK load tests. Red-i a premium, heavy duty lithium complex grease fortified with polymers, anti-wear agents, tackiness additives and rust and corrosion inhibitors. Morey’s Red-i Marine Grease is available in 450gm cartridges, 500gm pots, 2.5 and 18kg pails, or in 55kg and 180kg drums. See moreyoil.co.nz or call 09 813 9200 for more information and stockists.

Drill doctor restores bits to full health Dull drill bits waste time and cause frustration, and replacing frequently used bits is also time-consuming and costly. The Drill Doctor 750X sharpens standard twist and masonry bits from 2.5mm to 19mm regardless of material — carbide, cobalt, high-speed steel, black oxide, or tin-coated. The chuck’s long jaws hold the drill firmly, allowing custom angle sharpening from 115 to 140 degrees and you can adjust the amount of material taken off to extend bit life. The Drill Doctor can also sharpen split point bits. The diamond grinding disc is user replaceable and the unit comes with hard-shell carry case $465 excl. GST. See centurydistributors.co.nz or call 04 567 1405 for more information.

Customize your kit with Teng’s modular tool trays This bit of Teng kit offers double the flexibility with two 560mm flexible shaft drivers one with a square drive for ¼” drive sockets, the other with a socket end for loading ¼” hex bits, together with ¼” drive sockets from 4mm to 13mm and a selection of the most commonly used ¼” hex screwdriver bits. The 41-piece TTXMD41N comes in the unique Teng Tools TC tray with removable lid and dove tail joint for use on its own, or as part of the Teng Tools TC control system. The tray measures 560 x 110 x 70mm and is available for around $170. For more information, email info@tengtools.co.nz or call 09 274 7365.

30

Auto Channel Issue #10 February 2019

Think outside the circle Ground clearance an issue for your exhaust? AdrenalinR now offers oval tube in 304 grade stainless steel. The 3.5-inch pipe measures 58mm/118mm, 4-inch 63mm/133mm, and 5-inch, 80mm/160mm. It comes in two-metre lengths, with round-to-oval adapters for both ends. Wall thickness is 1.6mm. Prices start at $220 per length for the 3.5-inch pipe. See adrenalinr.com for more.

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WORDS: JACKY TSE PHOTOS: ADAM CROY

A Swift Transformation WHAT HAPPENS WHEN YOU TAKE A BRAND-NEW SUZUKI SWIFT SPORT AND TURN IT INTO A MACHINE SURE TO PLEASE ANY PERFORMANCE CAR ENTHUSIAST?

T

here aren’t many new cars on the market that are interesting, affordable, or a great base for building a sports car. I mean, there are a lot of quick, small, turbo, Euro hatch

offerings — but would you really take it out and track it?

You have running costs, repair costs, voiding warranties — and what if the worst case happens? Perhaps you’re after a cheap little car that you can daily drive but also have a bit of fun on the weekends, or even take it to the track and cut a few laps. Do we really need a big car with massive horsepower when we all just sit in traffic most of the time? And don’t get us started on rising gas prices and being conscious of your carbon footprint.

This is where the latest model Suzuki Swift Sport comes into the picture, after I was given a car to test drive earlier in the year when it was first released. I’m not an easy person to please when it comes to test driving new cars — well, within that price bracket anyway — but its performance surprised me. The car is lightweight — 972.5kg according to our scales — and with the 1400cc turbo motor, it’s cheap to run around town in or when stuck in traffic. The turbo is efficient, and very responsive, delivering a lot of torque down low, and hitting the maximum torque output at 2500–3000rpm, which means you don’t have to ring it out to feel the power.

Being a factory six-speed, it really ties the gearing much better than a normal five-speed. Brakes are decent sized, there’s heaps of interior space — even with four big boys packed in.

I floated the idea with the dealer at West City Suzuki to take the Sport to the next level — to turn it into something suitable for a person that is wanting performance without having to build it up themselves or shop around for upgrades.

32

Auto Channel Issue #10 February 2019

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This was how the Track Edition was born. A real

the exhaust be too droney and detract from the comfort

500g per corner weight saving (if you save 1kg per corner

performance model, ready to hit the track and really have

of the vehicle? Also, the build needs to be of high quality

on rotational mass, it’s equivalent to 15kg for the whole

some fun — not with just aesthetic upgrades like most

to be able to handle the abuse. The package is focused

car for acceleration).

dealer special models that leave you asking: “Is that really

on unleashing its full potential, creating a well balanced,

The suspension has been upgraded with custom-valved,

a performance package?”

reliable, fun car to drive.

damper adjustable BCs for the project, which also allowed

Having a dealership background at Honda, I’ve had

We wanted to save weight anywhere we could. This first

us to corner weight the car with 50/50 balance in mind.

experience in some of the procedures when they spec

came into play with new wheels. A set of lighter, but

The brakes, however, are a good size for the weight, so

a performance-upgraded edition. There a lot of things

wider, Wedsport TC105X — the first set in New Zealand.

we kept them and swapped in some upgraded pads from

to consider: such as ensuring the suspension valving or

These are wearing 215/40R17 ContiPremiumContact 2,

Endless. These are a big step up, being five times stronger,

upgraded springs aren’t making the car too bouncy or

giving a much needed extra contact patch, as it would

and will be able to handle some track abuse without

too low. Will the upgraded intake be too loud? Or will

lose traction with the factory-fitted 195s. These gave us a

sacrificing low-temp brake performance.

The next stage was to unleash some more performance

The power runs for each oil were carried out at the same

air box vs an HKS upgrade intake. Result? 1.5–2.5kW gain

without reflashing the ECU. On paper, the K14C 1400cc

temp (using the built-in oil gauge). It made the most on

over the stock airbox. We were worried the new intake was

makes 103 kW at 5500 rpm and 230Nm at 2500–3000

H-Tech 5W30, picking up an extra 2kW from 4000rpm all

breathing hot air but it seems like the intercooler is really

rpm. As a base line, with the standard oil, the car made

the way to redline. Motul 300V was pretty much the same

doing its job and making the intake charge cool and stable.

90kW and 212Nm on the dyno. If we take 10 per cent

as the stock, although it made slightly more at the very

The final two pieces to the engine work are the blow-

power lost in drivetrain into account, that’s 99kW and

peak RPM. The thicker 8100 5W40 was pretty much the

off valve developed by HKS, and their cat-back exhaust

233Nm at the crank, which is pretty close to the advertised

same as stock but did rob a tiny bit of power up top.

system. The combined upgrades produced 13–15kW gains

numbers.

Being a tight motor, if we ran it on 0W30 there would

on the dyno. So a total of 18.6kW gained over factory,

Our next focus is oil viscosity. We had three oils to test:

definitely be more power. But if the car gets tracked

without a reflash or adding boost.

H-Tech 5W30, Motul 81005W40, and Motul 300V 5W30.

without a oil cooler fitted, I will recommend staying with

With a reflash and a touch more boost, this factory-forged

After the base run, we drained the factory oil. The motor

the thicker 5W40 for extra protection. The oil does get

little 1400cc would really come to life. But for now, and for

had only 200ks of normal driving, and the last 50ks were

boiled up pretty quickly under load, so you do want to

the purpose of this exercise, the combination of upgrades

driven with a bit more load and more revs. For a brand

ensure there is enough oil pressure and protection. What’s

made a noticeable difference to such a lightweight little

new performance car, I highly recommend that the first

worse: losing a bit of horsepower or risk losing your

car. It now sits much more planted on the road, and when

oil change should be done within the first 500km. There

motor?

pushing through corners there was a very noticeable brake

is always metal alloy going around — not everything gets

Before we get the car off the dyno for the power mods

improvement — and the sound was just enough to let your

picked up by the oil filter!

upgrade, we wanted to run a comparison with the stock

fellow road users know you’re coming.

34

Auto Channel Issue #10 February 2019

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235G Bush Road Rosedale, Auckland Phone 0800 463 977

Tow-Pro Elite V2 Electric Brake Controller sold at various independent automotive/ towing stores between the 1st September 2018 to the 21st January 2019.

Tow-Pro Elite EBRH-ACCV2

Defect – Where the installation has not been carried out in accordance with the product manual, using dedicated wiring from a single battery supply, there is potential at any time for no trailer brake output indicated by a flashing yellow/ red warning lamp.

Hazard – When towing, the braking distance of the tow vehicle and trailer may be increased.

What to do – Affected customers should contact REDARC Electronics by calling 1800 733 272 or 08 8322 4848, 8am-5:30pm Mon-Fri (ACDST), or by email at service@redarc.com.au or visit the REDARC website - www.redarc.com.au/ recall-notice.

If a consumer is affected, they should either go back to their installer to seek free repair or call REDARC Electronics Technical Support line to receive details on a dealer network to arrange a free repair.

If the Tow-Pro V2 electric trailer brake controller is not installed in a vehicle, the consumer should contact REDARC to arrange a free replacement.

Customers can also contact REDARC Electronics at www.redarc.com.au/recallnotice and check, using the serial number checking tool, if their product is in the affected batch.

See productsafety.gov.au for Australian product recall information

WORDS: TODD WYLIE PHOTOS: ADAM CROY

Head of the Pac THIS ISN’T A REPLICA OF THE ANDERSON BROTHERS’ FAMOUS PINEPAC XE FALCON FROM THE ’80S: IT’S THEIR NEW, IMPROVED VERSION!

D

espite being a small dot on the underside of the globe, New Zealand’s known for punching above its weight in the world of motorsport. You only need to catch

the news on TV these days to see just how well we’re doing. Names such as Scott Dixon, Brendon Hartley, and the all-conquering V8 Supercar drivers such as SVG, Fabian Coulthard, and Scott McLaughlin are the talk of the town.

The beauty of motorsport at this level is that the drivers are backed by big teams with even bigger budgets and, with the level of professionalism within the sport, the drivers can make a damn good living out of it.

Flick your calendar back a few years to the early 1980s.

The names etched into the winners’ trophies and the minds of the fans included Bruce and Wayne Anderson, who grew up in Whenuapai with a father who was car mad, and helped him with the running of the sawmill.

Bruce began driving earth-moving machinery as a wee lad, and then started showing some promise behind the wheel of a race car. Little brother Wayne, some seven years Bruce’s junior, also showed interest.

Despite Wayne ending up parking his dad’s car on its roof in a paddock well before he was old enough to drive legally, he soon started honing his track skill. Over the years, the duo stepped up through various cars and classes.

What made the Anderson brothers successful was not just their talent behind the wheel, but their business nous that allowed them to pursue their dreams. Don’t forget, in those days the racing was all owner funded, owner built, and owner maintained — no big-dollar sponsors footing the bill, and no massive teams to fix the damage.

Having always had an association with Ford, the brothers joined the fray when the XD and XE Falcons were released, purchasing an XD NZ Production Saloon previously campaigned by Nick Begovic and Dick Johnson, before building an XE replacement from scratch.

Both cars, dressed in the now-famous Pinepac livery, went on to race against many of the great names of today — the XE coming third in two New Zealand championships with Bruce behind the wheel. Dick Johnson was invited to co-drive with Bruce for the 1985 Wellington Street Race, where he placed the car on pole, and, although mechanical issues put them out early on, a friendship was created that’s stayed strong until this day.

The XE was one of just two genuine homologated Group A XE Falcons ever built. Sadly, this car, after being sold to a relative, ended up being stolen, never to be seen again.

Despite lots of noise about its whereabouts, it seems that piece of Kiwi history is gone forever. However, the love for that car has not.

Fast forward to 2017, and Bruce’s family, including son Andrew — who’s also had plenty of success behind the wheel — is still running the sawmill, Wayne, aka Jacko, is living his dream of building and maintaining race cars at his business, AV8 Motorsport, where he’s assisted by his son Tony — yet another successful racer.

36

Auto Channel Issue #10 February 2019

Jacko was in need of some Falcon running gear for

Tony could bring to the table in race car construction.

another project he was involved in, and came across a

Not that the others didn’t get their hands dirty, mind you.

complete XE with just what he needed. The purchase

Even Bruce’s wife, Judith, who was deeply involved with

worked out well, as Andrew was able to con Uncle Jacko

running the team last time the brothers campaigned an

into giving him some finishing parts for his XE Falcon

XE, was a key part of the project.

street-car project. Soon, the four Anderson boys were

The shell was dip stripped from the get-go to let

left staring at an XE bodyshell. Clearly, there was only

them see what they were really dealing with. While it

ever going to be one outcome — the chance to relive

was away, fibreglass panels to be bolted onto it were

the dream was far too strong for the family to resist.

produced by Mike Shaw Fibreglass. Despite CMC’s

Bruce describes it as “not only a trip down memory lane

1500kg weight restriction, it’s not been all about

but also the re-creation of a neat car from a unique

dropping a few pounds — due to them being hard to

period of New Zealand motorsport, when a street race

find these days. Mike was also commissioned to produce

was taken by the scruff of the neck by an Aussie legend,”

a Group A XE Falcon three-piece rear spoiler and period

— so there was clearly a little point to prove, too.

replica front spoiler, while Plastics Constructions was

With Enzed Central Muscle Cars now the pinnacle of

called in to supply Lexan for the windows.

saloon racing in New Zealand, and Bruce already sitting

The fab work that brings it all together saw the stock

at the front of the class behind the wheel of his ’69

rear diff have its centre cut out, replaced with a 9-inch

Mustang, building the XE for the class was the obvious

centre, and mated to MS Fabrication cambered hubs.

choice. So, while nostalgia’s nice, newstalgia’s even

This would soon be hung off the standard XE four-link,

better, and the car would receive the best modern-day

and supported by Koni coilovers. A Watt’s linkage helps

equipment they could get their hands on.

control the side-to-side while a custom AV8 sway bar

A 358ci Roush Yates Nascar road race engine was the

keeps roll in check. The front end saw a similar mix of

first on the list, along with an Andrews Racing four-speed

components, with Global West A-arms being the key

gearbox to match. While the parts themselves are exactly

difference.

what’s required to be at the right end of the field, the

Local parts supplier, Racer Products — run by fellow

ace up their sleeves was the experience that Jacko and

racing family, Petch, from the Andersons’ early Group A 1982 XE Ford Falcon Engine: 358ci Roush Yates Nascar V8, cast block, alloy Roush Yates D3 road race heads, Braswell road race four-barrel carb, mechanical fuel pump, Holley Hydramat fuel mat, 120-litre Fuel Safe fuel cell, Nascar HSVC MSD ignition and coil, MoTeC PDM switching and relay configuration, Roush four-into-twointo-one headers, 1/2-to-two-inch stainless extractors, SpinTech low-profile mufflers, C&R combined water and oil cooler, Roush Nascar dry sump Driveline: Andrews Racing four-speed dogbox, straight-cut gears, Tilton triple plate clutch, Ford 9-inch diff, MS Fabrication cambered hubs, single-piece aluminium driveshaft Suspension: Global West A-arms, Global West lower arms, strengthened factory four-link, standard Watt’s link, adjustable roll centre on diff hat, Koni double adjustable coilover shocks, King Springs coil springs, spherical bearing and solid bushes, custom AV8 front and rear sway bars Brakes: Tilton floor-mounted pedal box, Brembo four-piston calipers, 325mm front discs, 305mm rear discs, Hawk pads Wheels/Tyres: 17x9.5-inch Simmons FR1 wheels, 275/40R17 Hankook C51 tyres Exterior: Fibreglass bonnet, fibreglass front guards, Lexan windows, XE Falcon three-piece rear spoiler, period replica front spoiler, PPG Pinepac Toby Yellow Chassis: Seam welded Interior: RaceTech RT4009 seats, OMP five-point harness, OMP quick-release steering wheel, steering wheel–mounted controls for MoTeC PDM, AutoMeter ultra-lite carbon fibre gauges, custom chromoly roll cage Performance: Estimated 830hp, 530lb·ft

days — was called upon to supply countless parts, such

are run off the steering wheel, thanks to some magic

weeks before the season began.

as the class maximum size brake package, while 1st

performed by Racecar and Custom Electrical.

Although Andrew’s not been behind the wheel of

Auto Parts, a business previously owned by fellow racer,

With the 2018–19 season coming up rapidly, the boys

a race car for a few seasons, having stepped down

Ivan Segedin, was also a critical part of the supply chain.

were on a mission to make sure they didn’t just show

from the BNT NZV8s series, he’s still an Anderson, and

Usually, a vehicle such as this would run a fuel system

up for the first round of the season, but showed up

pushing a race car to its limits is second nature to him,

that looks to the untrained eye somewhat like a boot-

with a tested and proven car, so, once the fabrication

as was shown during testing. With Bruce continuing to

mounted oil refinery, but this car would be a touch

was complete, the team at Moselle Panel and Paint

campaign the Mustang in the series, we suspect that

different, with the Roush Braswell four-barrel carb being

were given strict instructions that the paintwork was

not only will there be competition with the rest of the

supplied via a mechanical fuel pump drawing from a

urgent.

grid, but perhaps a little father/son competition going

Holley fuel mat mounted in the Fuel Safe cell. No surge

The choice of colour never needed to be discussed;

on, too. Mind you, Andrew’s likely all too aware that if

tank or lift pumps required.

there was no way it would be anything but the iconic

the Falcon proves too much for the Mustang to keep

Up front, the combo parts continued with a C&R

Pinepac Toby Yellow — a colour that’s graced the

up with, there’s always the possibility of the old boy

combined water and oil cooler being fitted to keep

team’s cars since the 1980s. Moselle didn’t just slap the

pulling rank and taking the car for himself.

temperatures in check. Mind you, with a 20-litre Nascar

paint on, either, but massaged the big Falcon’s panels

Much like the fans of the ’80s watching the cars of the

dry sump oil tank being fitted, oil is not in short supply.

to perfection before ensuring the car was coated with

B&H Production Saloon class hitting the grid for the

Not even the wiring in the car is the same as the original

a show-quality PPG finish inside and out. They got it

first time, we can’t wait to watch this unfold, and, with

XE. In fact, due to the MoTeC PDM system, there are no

done on schedule, too, with the car being reassembled

the XE Falcon running full period tribute livery — it’s like

fuses and all the controls for the electrical components

in time for a couple of test days out on the track a few

winding the clock back!

37

WORDS: ROSS MACKAY PHOTOS: FAST COMPANY / PROSHOTZ

Silver Fern Rally 2018 WINNING THIS YEAR’S NZ SILVER FERN RALLY — AND DOING SO IN SUCH EMPHATIC STYLE — WAS LIKE COMPLETING UNFINISHED BUSINESS FOR BRITISH HISTORIC RALLY SPECIALISTS MATTHEW ROBINSON AND CO-DRIVER SAM COLLIS

2018 New Zealand Silver Fern Rally winners Matthew Robinson and Sam Collis in their Ford Escort RS1800

T

he pair crossed the finish line of the eight-

couldn’t beat the Ford hordes, he would join them.

Ford Escort, who were first to falter and eventually fall.

day, 3571km marathon gravel event on

“We had teething troubles with that car,” said the

Evans grabbed an early lead on the opening day,

Saturday afternoon, 1 December, just over

straight-talking Yorkshireman, “and decided that we

only to twice clip fence posts and slip down the

four minutes ahead of fellow Mk2 Ford

couldn’t come all this way this time without giving it our

order, ceding the lead to Robinson and Collis. Evans

Escort RS1800 pair Roger Chilman and Max Freeman.

best shot, [which is] why we’re in an Escort.”

reclaimed the lead — briefly — at the end of the third

A third British duo, Simon Tysoe and co-driver Paul

Certainly, the old motor racing adage, ‘To finish first, first

day, after Robinson slipped off the road on a tricky

Morris, came in third, making it an all-Escort podium.

you have to finish’ was true of the 2018 event, which

corner and had to be towed out of a gully. The writing

Robinson and Collis started the 2016 Silver Fern Rally in

started in Hamilton on Saturday, 24 November and, after

was on the wall, though, when Evans ran wide and got

the South Island in a freshly built Fiat 131R replica. The

cross-crossing the North Island, ended in Rotorua a

his Escort stuck in a ditch on the fourth day; he and

unsorted car was quick but lacked the reliability of all

week later. Ironically, it was top seeds Meirion Evans and

Williams finally called it quits after hitting a culvert on

the Escorts in the event, so Robinson decided that if he

fellow Welshman Lestyn Williams, in a newly built Mk2

day five.

Left:The Toyota Corolla DX of Mike Goldsbury and Dan Wallis was first home in the Challenge class Right: Amid a sea of Ford Escorts, the Brad and Stuart McFarlane’s Porsche 911 stood out, finishing sixth

38

Auto Channel Issue #10 February 2019

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Above: The Toyota Corolla DX of Mike Goldsbury and Dan Wallis was first home in the Challenge class

The top Kiwi pairings were also out of luck. Shane

Rawstron and Ian McKee, in the first locally built and

Murland and John Benton rolled out of the event on the

prepared Mk2 Ford Escort, with the Porsche 911 of local

same corner as Robinson and Collis on the third day,

son/father combination Brad and Stuart McFarlane

while Jeff Judd and Stephane Prevot were out with a

coming in sixth. The McFarlanes ran as high as third

dropped valve early on day four. NZ rallying veteran Brian

— and top Kiwi combo — on day five before a blown

Green and co-driver Fleur Pedersen joined the DNF list a

gearbox and resultant engine bay fire saw them slip

day later, with a blown motor in their Mk2 Ford Escort.

down the order.

In the final wash-up, Matthew Robinson and Sam Collis

Marathon rally rookies Mike Goldsbury and Dan Wallis

were too good at the ‘long game’, building a lead they

(Toyota Corolla DX) managed to stave off all comers

were not to lose, despite Roger Chilman and Max

to win the Challenge class (for modified older cars

Freeman — driving the car Meirion Evans and Lestyn

and modern 2WD ones), just over a minute ahead

Williams used to win the 2016 event — winning most of

of Dave Strong and Rob Scott (Honda Civic Type R),

the stages over the final three days.

with category pace setters Brent Taylor and Dave Neill

First Kiwi team home, in fourth place, were Brent

(Toyota GT86) coming a hard-won third.

2018 NEW ZEALAND SILVER FERN RALLY HAMILTON–ROTORUA EVENT RESULTS HISTORIC AND OVERALL 1. Matthew Robinson / Sam Collis (UK/UK) (Ford Escort Mk2): 15h 9min 14.3s 2. Roger Chilman / Max Freeman (UK/UK) (Ford Escort MkII): +4min 17.9s 3. Simon Tysoe / Paul Morris (UK/UK) (Ford Escort MkII): +28min 18.0s 4. Brent Rawstron / Ian McKee (NZ/NZ) (Ford Escort MkII): +33min 13.6s 5. Andrew Siddall / Alexander Lee (UK/UK) (Ford Escort MkI): +43min 52.9s 6. Brad McFarlane / Stuart McFarlane (NZ/NZ) Porsche 911): +52min 55.5s 7. Phil Squires / Nigel Hutchinson (UK/UK) (Ford Escort): +1h 32min 40.6s 8. Geoff Bell / Ed Bentley (SA/SA) (Ford Escort MkII): +1h 59min 11.1s 9. K evin Blackley / Rodney Christensen (NZ/NZ) (Ford Escort MkII): +2h 3min 56.8s 10. Frank Tundo / Tash Tundo (Kenya/Kenya) (Ford Escort MkII RS1800): +2h 29min 41.5s CHALLENGE 1. Mike Goldsbury / Dan Wallis (NZ/NZ) (Toyota Corolla DX): 15h 36min 57.2s 2. Dave Strong / Rob Scott (NZ/NZ) (Honda Civic Type R): +1min 19.6s 3. Brent Taylor / Dave Neill (NZ/NZ) (Toyota GT86): +8min 27.5s 4. Chris Ramsay / Mike Vincent (NZ/NZ) (Toyota AE86): +38min 59.9s 5. Charlie Evans / Andrew Hooker (NZ/NZ) (Mazda RX7): +10h 17min 46.3s

Above: First Kiwis home were Brent Rawstron and Ian McKee in Rawstron’s Ford Escort RS 1800

40

Auto Channel Issue #10 February 2019

Projecta Intelli-Start Jumpstarter (IS900E and IS1200E) This recall applies to the IS900E and IS1200E models of the Projecta Intelli-Start Jumpstarter sold in New Zealand since October 2016 through various automotive retailers and distributors.

Pure Kiwi

Important Information: This notice does not relate to a new recall. Narva New Zealand Limited (NNZL) (now merged and trading under the name Griffiths Equipment Limited (Griffiths Equipment)) is publishing this notice to remind customers of this recall, which commenced in June 2017.

Note: If you have already returned your Jumpstarter to NNZL, then this reminder notice is not applicable to you and there is no need for further action. If you have not returned your Jumpstarter, please contact Griffiths Equipment as soon as possible to arrange a full refund or a replacement Jumpstarter (a Projecta Intelli-Start Jumpstarter LS1250).

Identification: The underside of the affected product states the Part Number (P/No.) as IS900E or IS1200E. The front of affected products states either 12V 900A or 12V 1200A. Defect: In some circumstances, the product's battery component may overheat after jumpstarting a vehicle and, in some cases, subsequently catch alight.

Hazard: If the battery overheats there is a risk of fire. This may result in property damage and personal injury.

What to do: Consumers should immediately stop using the product and contact their place of purchase or Griffiths Equipment to return the product and receive a full refund or a replacement Jumpstarter. You can contact Griffiths Equipment by phoning (09) 525 4575 between 8am to 5pm every day or emailing sales@griffithsequipment.co.nz .

Contact details: Griffiths Equipment Limited (the New Zealand distributor, formerly Narva New Zealand Limited) See www.recalls.govt.nz for 22-24 Olive Road New Zealand product recall information Penrose, Auckland

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Most vehicle alternators are not designed to fully charge an auxiliary battery, an insufficient charge rate will, at best, shorten NEW the life and performance of the auxiliary battery but may result in the battery being flat when least expected.

The REDARC BCDC in-vehicle battery charger AMP will ensure the auxiliary battery will achieve MO EL D and maintain an optimal charge regardless of its type or size.

Situations vacant ASSITANT BRANCH MANAGER - TAKANINI We are on the lookout for an enthusiastic individual who would like to combine their management experience with their passion for automotive. This is an opportunity to get some real hands on experience, partnering with the Store Manager on the below tasks: • Drive branch sales & improve store performance • Motivating & organising staff on a daily basis to create a great team culture • Supporting the training of your team in with customer service and product knowledge • Maintaining a high standard of branch presentation & contributing to merchandising • Ensuring adherence to company policies and procedures All About You This is one of our strong trade orientated branches, therefore you will bring a strong understanding of automotive parts. You’ll enjoy working with people, both staff and customers. For us, this isn’t just a job, it’s a career, with a view for the successful candidate to progress their automotive career further within our business are looking for: • Previous experience within a manager or supervisory role • Automotive experience and/or knowledge • Strong track record of driving sales & hitting KPIs • A natural ability to build rapport with customers • Strong problem solving and decision making skills • Excellent organisational and prioritising skills • High visual merchandising standards Most importantly, bring the right attitude - Work hard philosophy and a determination to grow within the Repco (and wider) business.

Send your CV to our Careers Team – careers@repco.co.nz

AUTOMOTIVE PARTS SPECIALIST - MT ROSKILL You will draw on your mechanical/automotive experience and/or knowledge, assisting our Automotive Trade Customers with parts enquiries and orders. Duties include: • Liaising with trade customers to organise parts needed for service and repairs • Process order and ensuring delivery within a timely manner • Building and maintaining relationships with our trade customers • Over the counter service for any parts enquiries • Ensuring accurate documentation Skills & Experience Our trade customers are experienced automotive professionals, therefore you will need a strong understand of car parts to hit the ground running in this busy role. Whether you’ve worked in automotive parts, come from a mechanical background and are looking to get off the tools, or you’re someone who tinkers with cars at home, this role has you doing what you love with like-minded people.

About Us Repco was founded in 1922 and has since become one of New Zealand’s most well-recognised and trusted brands. Being at the front of the industry for over 95 years has allowed Repco to retain its reputation and status within the automotive industry. We are backed by the largest automotive aftermarket parts company in the world, Genuine Parts Company (GPC) who own businesses in USA, Canada, Mexico, Australia and New Zealand. Send your CV to our Careers Team – careers@repco.co.nz

MULTIPLE VACANCIES Join the Parts Connection Team!

Are you looking for a challenge in the automotive parts industry?

We are a group of market leading automotive dismantlers based in Auckland who are renowned for superb customer service, specialist parts knowledge and quality recycled parts. We currently have a number of openings located at our 9 different Auckland branches.

ASSITANT CATEGORY MANAGER - EQUIPMENT This role oversees our Capital Equipment and Repco Tyre Repair categories, working closely with the Category Manager (based in Australia) to ensure that all category plans are successfully executed on time and all identified customer and business objectives are met. It’s a busy role where you’ll be based at our Support Office in Auckland, but you’ll build relationships across the network dealing often with the team throughout the wider network.

Key responsibilities include supporting strategic direction of the category, implementing promotional, communication & marketing programs, provide analytical support & reviewing data to make recommendations, and liaising with suppliers.

The ideal candidate Key to this role is automotive equipment experience or knowledge, and you will ideally be able to demonstrate your previous experience within a category or similar position. Your experience and history will demonstrate: • A tertiary graduate or previous success within a category role • Experience within automotive or strong automotive knowledge is highly desirable • A self-starter with the desire and drive to progress • Excellent communication and customer service skills • Strong attention to detail, results focus and ability to multi-task • Be agile and flexible to meet demands and deadlines • Have a roll up the sleeves mentality to getting the job done • Be naturally inquisitive and look to add value to assigned tasks Send your CV to our Careers Team – careers@repco.co.nz

ACCOUNT MANAGER/SALES REP - NEW LYNN In this role you will be based on the road, seeking new business opportunities while also maintaining relationships with our already established automotive trade customers. You will assist our trade customers in finding the best products to meet their needs, and ensure that they receive a level of service superior to what our competitors offer.

Skills & Experience To be successful in this role you will have proven sales and account management experience and enjoy working towards KPI’s and targets. Our clients are experienced automotive trades professionals, so experience and/or knowledge of the automotive industry is essential. Building relationships will come naturally to you, as well as the ability to work within a fast paced environment.

• Sales experience in a relationship-based sales role – Within automotive would be ideal • Strong automotive parts knowledge • Achievement orientated, enthusiastic, motivated and a team player • Proven ability to increase profit margins and grow market share • Clear and personable communication style The Repco brand stands for authenticity derived from having quality products which have earned the trust of our customers for over 95 years. With a huge network of almost 100 stores, Repco holds such a wide footprint, allowing us the ability to provide the rights parts when you need them.

Send your CV to careers@repco.co.nz or call (09) 574 1204

SALES REPRESENTATIVE We have an exciting opportunity for the right candidate to join a progressive, entrepreneurial team focused on delivering customer value.

Filpro Automotive is looking to hire a talented, self-starting, and enthusiastic sales professional to promote its brands and service existing customer relationships, primarily in the North Island with some South Island travel.

The roles we are currently hiring for are: • Sales Junior • Sales Person Counter & Telephone Based • Warehouse & Despatch • Hoist Drivers • Vehicle Dismantlers • Vehicle Drainers • Yard Person

This position would have sales responsibility across the entire product portfolio, which includes the globally recognised FRAM Filter brand, as well as trade marketing input.

Our ideal candidates will have an interest in cars, have a sound work ethic and are eligible to work in New Zealand.

If you would like to join the growing Parts Connection team and would like to find out more about any of the above positions then we look forward to hearing from you.

If the idea of forging a career in a fresh business environment with significant growth potential is appealing, then please submit your CV along with a covering letter to the Managing Director, Filpro Australasia at rlassen@filpro.com.au.

Send your CV to pam@partsconnection.co.nz and indicate the position you are most interested in.

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EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES WITHIN NEW ZEALAND’S WIDER AUTOMOTIVE SECTOR

Auto Channel Issue #10 February 2019

As such, the successful candidate would need to have a minimum of 5-plus years’ experience in a similar or related field along with a strong interest in all things automotive. A related technical or sales qualification would be advantageous.

BRANCH MANAGER NORTH SHORE Oversee our largest store within New Zealand - As a dual format business looking after both Trade and Retail customers you will need to have a flair for operations, managing sales targets, budgets and new initiatives, whilst also being the key point of contact for both customers and team members. Specific duties include: • Managing the store to increase sales and improve EBIT • Ensuring the store is highly competitive and attractive in the market • Developing staff to deliver exceptional customer service and product knowledge • Building strong relationships with customers to ensure continued market leadership • Ensure the branch safety standards adhere to OHSE policies, procedures and legislative requirements, through effective communication with the team and an active approach to hazard identification and risk management • Creating a supportive and motivating environment clearly understanding their role and accountabilities • Effectively manage inventory to minimise costs Skills and Experience Required: • Previous experience in a management position • Experience, knowledge or an understanding of the automotive industry, would be highly beneficial • Passionate, sociable and engaging personality who will drive our staff to succeed • Proven experience developing relationships with a range of stakeholders • Strong business acumen in both sales and reporting With a strong focus on internal career progression this isn’t an opportunity that comes along very often!

Send your CV to our Careers Team – careers@repco.co.nz

SALES REPRESENTATIVES Love cars and want to make your hobby a career? Want to sell something you’re passionate about to people who understand your product? Want to join a growing market leader where you boost your career? We are looking for dynamic Sales Representatives. Join one of our teams across all Bapcor Brands: BNT, HCB, Autolign, JAS, Diesel Distributors, NZ Break Co, Track Trailer Parts. In this role, you will be responsible for increasing sales as well as our profile, and building strong relationships with clients. You will be: • On the road, driving sales growth across the region • Managing a large portfolio of existing loyal clients • Demonstrating your passion and knowledge of our diverse product range to develop and support lasting relationships with new and existing clients alike • Helping with analysing and forecasting sales figures, and strategizing target markets About You You are an outgoing person with a proven track record in sales and account management. Experience in the automotive industry and in a sales environment would be advantageous, but drive plus a passion for cars is vital. Having a high level of initiative and adaptability with a strong sales-focus, coupled with resilience and determination, will help you succeed in this role. As you will be on the road, you must have a full New Zealand Driver’s License without restrictions.

This role comes with a competitive salary package as well as a company car with a fuel card. Above all else, we actively support a collaborative high-performance team culture where career opportunities are endless.

To apply go to bapcor.recruitmenthub.co.nz/Vacancies

SENIOR DESIGNER AUCKLAND Parkside Media are looking for a senior designer who can manage a range of digital and print media design collateral, including page layout design for two magazine titles and their related digital channel outputs. In this role you will work closely with the editorial and account service teams to make sure production on all deliverables runs to schedule.

You will be at the senior level, have five-plus years’ experience (including working with print collateral), and be looking for an opportunity to advance in a studio leadership role. Equally as important as your knowledge of current digital deliverable requirements and delivery platforms is past magazine design experience, which will be particularly advantageous together with sound understanding of pre-press process. Day-to-day, as well as design duties you will work with a small team of in-house and contracted editorial and design staff. You will have an opportunity to contribute to the creative development of the company’s brands, and provide leadership on design direction for the company.

Work hours could be flexible to fit for the right candidate.

Requirements: • 5 years’ design experience, including print and digital • Excellent file management, technical and organizational skills to lead the team and ensure processes run smoothly • Proactive, smart, and fastidious with attention to detail • Motivated to produce great work and to inspire those around you to attain a high standard If you are looking for a role that will challenge you and provide opportunities for growth, please apply now to vacancies@parkside.co.nz with your CV and portfolio. Applications close 5pm, Friday, 1 March.

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Switching sides: right-hand-drive conversion MOST OF WHAT PEOPLE KNOW ABOUT RIGHT-HAND-DRIVE CONVERSIONS TENDS, WITH HISTORICAL MERIT, TO CENTRE ON HORROR STORIES. HOWEVER, IN 2017, THAT COULDN’T BE FURTHER FROM THE TRUTH

O

ne of the great misconceptions

New Zealand roads.

vehicle experts who specialize in right-hand-drive

surrounding American vehicle imports

The very term ‘right-hand-drive conversion’ carries

conversions on late-model American vehicles. They

is to do with the necessity of converting

a negative association. Old wives’ tales of the awful

have been involved with GM vehicles for 47 years. We

the driving position from the left to

conversion jobs of old — from sprockets and chains

caught up with them to document the conversion

the right. While many vehicles are permitted to be kept

through to universal joints and crossover shafts —

process — something that takes about six weeks

left-hand drive, on account of meeting certain criteria

have done the process no favours, but the truth of the

from start to finish, due to the intensive nature of

— most often due to age and gross vehicle mass —

matter is that a right-hand-drive conversion must be

the undertaking. Nothing is overlooked in achieving

there are a great many vehicles that, by law, must be

completed to a certain standard to be registered.

a premium end result that is indistinguishable from

converted to right-hand drive to be driven legally on

The team at Bunce Motor Company are American

factory.

Step one: Obviously, the vehicle must first be stripped so that the technicians are able to

Step two: These parts are stored aside to eliminate the risk of damaging the parts that

get to everything that must be accessed. This includes all front panels, right down to the

will be reused.

chassis rails, as well as the front seats, steering column, dashboard and centre console, and door cards.

Step three: With this improved access, the firewall can be reconfigured to suit the switch

Step four: Farther up the firewall, the windscreen-wiper assembly is then re-

to right-hand drive. This includes provisions for the steering column and brake assembly,

engineered to sweep the correct way — up and around towards the driver. This

comprising pedal box, vacuum booster, and master cylinder. New brake hard lines need

involves repositioning the wiper-arm pivot points, wiper-arm linkages, and wiper

to be made to suit the repositioned master cylinder.

motor — the end result is unlikely to be noticed unless it is specifically pointed out. The actual steering assembly depends on the vehicle being converted, but the Bunce Motor Company team have a quality solution regardless of system. Traditional steering racks are converted from left-hand drive to right-hand drive, with the shaft input and pinion gear on the opposite side, while steering boxes are remounted to work in a right-hand-drive chassis. All steering modifications are made using a jig, and the geometry is dialled for correct driving characteristics.

44

Auto Channel Issue #10 February 2019

Step five: Inside is where the most noticeable change takes place, and showcases the

Step six: The same level of detail is also applied to the smaller trim pieces. Take, for

premium quality prevalent throughout these conversions. Plastic dashboard panels are

example, the plastic trim surrounding the heater vents. Mirrored units are moulded and

moulded for a perfectly reflected fascia, but with mounting tabs that will allow for the

refinished so that the look and fit are identical to those of the factory items.

use of OEM accessories. The dash panel is professionally foamed and re-covered to replicate the factory item, with stitching added if required.

Step seven: The gauge cluster is retained and merely swapped over from left to right.

Step eight: Potential problems are ironed out in advance, as the wiring loom is

The dashboard mounting tabs are kept the same to ensure that there will be no problem

modified to factor in these relocated electrical accessories. Wires are lengthened

with physical installation.

and shortened as necessary, and it is important to note that the conversion is halted and checked after each major step to ensure that there are no issues and to present an opportunity to iron out any problems that may have arisen during any particular process. As an integral part of any late-model vehicle with such an extensive electrical system, the wiring is one such step.

Step nine: All electronics are retained and mounted in the new dashboard with factorystyle mounts. However, the radio units are sent back to the US for reprogramming, allowing them to suit local radio frequencies. With the wiring and radio unit ready for New Zealand requirements, the team can painstakingly piece the interior back together. As mentioned earlier, this is most obvious in the dashboard conversion, but consideration must also be paid to other areas. The seats are one such area.

Step ten: The only way to do this properly is to strip both the driver and passenger seat of all their electronics and swap them around. At the same time, new plastic side panels must be moulded and finished to suit the driver-seat controls on the right-hand side and the passenger-seat controls on the left-hand side. This not only facilitates the rewiring of the electric motors but adapts any necessary ancillaries to suit. For example, if the vehicle is equipped with a lane-departure warning system, which vibrates the driver’s seat when sensors detect that the vehicle has left its lane, it is no good if it is the passenger’s seat that vibrates because the vehicle has been converted to right-hand drive!

Identifying the criteria for a vehicle to require conversion to right-hand drive can be complex if you are unfamiliar with the NZTA requirements. Many American imports featured in NZV8 are exempt, predominantly because they are classified as “light Step eleven: With the interior back in, it’s essentially impossible to identify that the

vehicles that are 20 years old or more”. However, any late-model vehicles — less

vehicle left the assembly line as a left-hand drive. Everything falls to hand as it should,

than 20 years old — that do not meet the NZTA’s criteria for a Category A LHD

and works exactly as it left the factory. From this point, the vehicle goes on to receive

vehicle permit will need to be converted. A full criteria list can be found on the

a comprehensive wheel alignment and commence the compliance process, making it

NZTA website. Our thanks to the team at Bunce Motor Company for taking the time

ready for its new owner to enjoy on New Zealand roads.

to demonstrate the right-hand-drive conversion process to us.

45

AUTO CHANNEL New online catalogue puts Bendix power at your fingertips BENDIX JUST MADE LIFE A WHOLE LOT EASIER FOR TRADE CUSTOMERS BY CREATING AUSTRALASIA’S MOST COMPREHENSIVE AND UP-TO-DATE ONLINE CATALOGUE ON BRAKE PADS AND BRAKE SHOES

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: ADVERT

Automotive workshops Parts importers and distributors Transmission specialists Automotive recyclers Towing operators Panel beaters and painters Crash repairers Tyre dealers Suspension and underbody repairers

I

Steering specialists

t goes beyond being a parts list, providing a

material. It contains more than 100 videos on

wealth of technical information for passenger

technical and safety tips for mechanics and addresses

vehicles, 4WDs and light commercials, making it

topical issues such as ABS/ESC and replacements, and

simple to get the right pads or shoes for

which brake pads to use with active cruise control.

New- and used-car dealers

every vehicle.

For quick reference it has a frequently asked questions

Air conditioning repairers

Marketing manager Ian Bott says Bendix has invested

section. New technical bulletins are published on the

Heavy machinery dealers

heavily in making its vast range and various fitment

site, there is a members’ portal, a guide to Bendix

options easy to navigate, to create a first-choice tool

stockists and a Bendix helpline.

for the trade. Bendix is committed to keeping this

Bendix has also taken the guesswork out of choosing

database constantly updated into the future.

between the other options for upgrades. Ian says the

You can search by vehicle and specific model or by

technology section describes the technologies behind

part number. The site then offers details on other

the branding such as the new Stealth Advanced

Bendix product types, helping customize disc brake

Technology, which Bendix engineers developed

pads for different driving styles, conditions or for

to deliver “whisper quiet braking with silky smooth

better pedal feel and performance.

operation and a reduction in brake dust”.

The catalogue also features detailed images and

Other options include the well-established Blue

dimensions, making it easy to find and select

Titanium pads which have a blue coating designed

matching parts. The print version of the catalogue

to provide instant bedding in, and the ceramic

includes actual size images.

technology General CT pads. These top-of-the-line

You can bring up the online catalogue by searching

pads use a premium-grade ceramic formulation for

for Bendix catalogue or ‘Put Your Foot Down with

improved noise reduction, vibration and harshness

Confidence™’ the strapline Bendix chose to highlight

control, constant pedal feel, greater durability and

the catalogue’s key strengths.

high fade resistance. The site also delivers Bendix

Besides being a fast-track product selection tool, the

news, the latest Technical Bulletins and B-Mail.

website is a full spectrum resource of educational

For more information see bendix.com.au.

46

Auto Channel Issue #10 February 2019

Towing operators Auto-electrical repairers

Trucking and transport

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48

Auto Channel Issue #10 February 2019

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