Auto Channel 53

DRIVEN BY PASSION FOR 100 YEARS

NAPA rewards hard work with play

NAPA AUTO PARTS HAS MADE A NAME FOR ITSELF SPONSORING DIFFERENT MOTORSPORTS AND DRIVERS IN NEW ZEALAND. NOW IT’S BRANCHING OUT INTO GOLF — FOR CUSTOMERS

More than a hundred NAPA Auto Parts suppliers, customers and staff got together to cap off an intense couple of years establishing the trade supply businesses in New Zealand in appropriate

The inaugural NAPA Auto parts golf tournament for customers and suppliers was held recently on the Remarkables course at Millbrook Resort, Queenstown, the home of the New Zealand open, and the event was a sellout.

General Manager Tony Walker said the tournament was a celebration and a thank you from the NAPA team in New Zealand for customers and suppliers who have helped establish NAPA Auto Parts across the country and develop so quickly into a leading trade-based parts and service supplier. The event on 18 November brought together 104 competitors from NAPA customers, staff and suppliers, at least one of those coming from as far afield as far north Queensland.

Tony says NAPA is a global brand but the team has a vision to make this aspirational brand ‘local’ and the tournament is an example of that process in action.

“The entire NAPA team is excited about the next few years as we will be focusing on continuing to improve our offer and supporting customers to be successful in business,” says Andrew. “Our global position also puts us in a great position to keep a close eye on the changes new vehicle technology is making in the market for our customers.”

NAPA NZ has been through rapid changes in the last two years as the brand has become established here.

“It’s nice to now be in a position to start creating industry events like the golf tournament,” Tony says. “And we will be looking to make this event even bigger and better over the coming years.”

Some lucky players attended after having won entries by draw or competition but all were greeted at registration with gift bags as well as allocation to a team for the Ambrose-format competition.

GPC New Zealand’s product optimisation manager and merchandise lead Andrew Barrie says potential future golfing champions didn’t make themselves obvious among the contestants but one did distinguish himself by getting lost between the pro shop and the first tee, despite the favourable conditions: “Perfect conditions for golf,” says Andrew. “Warm, and cloudy surrounded by spectacular South Island scenery.”

that workshop owners struggled to achieve a proper work/life balance.

It’s a problem common to many small businesses and it’s one they regularly come up against at this time of the year when demand is ramping up as customers prepare for their own holidays.

If you have time to read the signs, it is a reminder to put some thought into succession planning, finding people in your business who can step up and run the show in your absence.

However you manage it, have a great Christmas break, and take the time to let the idea soak in of why we do it all. All the best for the new year, and Merry Christmas.

Parkes, Editor

Ian

AUTO

EDITOR

Ian Parkes, editor@autochannel.co.nz

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Deven Solanki

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

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Kealy Mathews

AUTO CHANNEL IS PUBLISHED BY

Players were encouraged to practise their driving and putting skills at the Penrite Chipping Challenge and NGK Putting Challenge with great prizes up for grabs. They fuelled up on barbecue lunch from the Narva barbecue truck where pre-tournament spot prizes were awarded before heading out on course.

The tournament started at 1pm, with golfers playing Ambrose, which sees all team members playing from the best placed shot. That produced a healthy winning score for one team of a round of 48.

Twenty-six teams started at different tees to complete the 18-hole course. There were spot prizes on some holes and at the 13th hole there was a hole-in-one challenge where players had the chance to win a Ford Ranger Raptor. Over $100K of prizes were awarded on the day.

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Auto Channel is the best way to reach the wider automotive industry. The publication is direct mailed to 11,306 New Zealand businesses in the following automotive sectors:

Automotive workshops, parts importers and distributors, transmission specialists, automotive recyclers, towing operators, panel beaters and painters, crash repairers, tyre dealers, suspension and underbody repairers, steering specialists, towing operators, auto-electrical repairers, newand used-car dealers, air-conditioning repairers, heavy-machinery dealers, trucking and transport.

Andrew says this was the first event but feedback on the day suggests it won’t be the last. Comments he noted included: “Nothing was a problem, the NAPA team had everything covered.”

“The event was marvellous.” “When’s the next one?”

“Thank you for a superbly organised and enjoyable day on Friday at Millbrook.”

“The company, together with the scenic environment, made the day. Many thanks to the NAPA team for a memorable occasion.”

After the tournament, golfers revived themselves with a three-course dinner at Millbrook’s Pavilion, where former TV presenter Hamish McKay entertained as MC. Rally driver Hayden Paddon joined Hamish for the evening’s Q&A session, taking questions from the audience. There was a big focus

on his EV rally car, a knowledgeable crowd showing keen interest in battery cooling systems and how to get the right rally car noises from an EV.

Andrew also offered a public thanks to customers and suppliers who attended the event and helped make the NAPA inaugural golf tournament a success.

Patch Rubber Tyre & Tube moves to the next level

PATCH RUBBER, WHICH SUPPLIES ‘EVERYTHING FOR THE TYRE DEALER’ HAS MADE A STEP CHANGE, MOVING INTO NEW PURPOSE-BUILT PREMISES IN HENDERSON

While operating as a separate business, it has moved into the new building alongside workshop equipment supplier Automaster, which is in the same ownership.

Automaster moved into the existing warehouse premises last year and built a showroom onsite, which gives customers the chance to directly compare equipment in the range and see it in action.

Managing directors Anthony Neill and Gary Cotterell say one of the key attractions of the site was the large sealed yard for freight operations and the space to build a new warehouse and office for Patch Rubber.

Patch Rubber is the New Zealand agent for

supply organisation in North America. Patch Rubber also supplies specialty tyres for a wide range of applications and imports New Zealand’s largest range of inner tubes. In total, it carries more than 3000 different stock items with access to many more from its international supply chain.

Gary says the “huge” yard will probably make the biggest difference to the business, being able to streamline container handling for both Auckland businesses on the same site.

“We import around 100–120 containers per year and land stock directly into Auckland, Hamilton, Wellington, and Christchurch,” says Gary.

The significant step up in capacity in Auckland — going from 1800 to 3200 square metres of warehousing and a site total of 8000 square metres — is designed to better meet existing demand and cater for growth.

“Patch NZ has been going for around 30-plus years,” says Anthony. “The Auckland branch had to expand from one small building in Henderson into three small buildings in the ’90s, then into one larger building in the 2000s — the last one in Aetna Place, Henderson, — and now to this current purpose built facility. During this period the Christchurch branch moved into bigger buildings four times and the Wellington branch has

moved into bigger buildings twice.”

If anything, Automaster has grown even faster and has moved into bigger buildings seven times since it began. Automaster was created in 2005, and the ownership of the two businesses was merged in 2016, although they are still run as separate businesses.

ELECTRIC EFFICIENCY

The big yard is not the only benefit of the new site. The new purpose-built warehouse will accom modate 6m tall racking which will be managed with electric stock pickers and a new narrow-aisle articulated forklift with extra lift height.

Gary says the new building also allowed the company to take advantage of more efficient or more sustainable systems, such as rain water collection and energy efficient LED lighting.

“The size and shape is designed to optimise efficiency, pallet racking, and traffic flows, as well as create a safe working environment.”

The two operations have 17 staff onsite with 35 nationwide and the company is seeking more skilled warehouse staff.

Patch Rubber operates 11 fully stocked vans that cover all of New Zealand, calling on most customers on a fortnightly cycle. There are five branches in all, in Auckland, Hamilton, Wellington, Christchurch, and Invercargill. “We also have reps with access to stock storage facilities in Dunedin, Nelson, and Hawke’s Bay,” says Anthony.

For more information about Patch Rubber, visit patchrubber.co.nz or call 0508 837 248, and for Automaster information visit automaster.co.nz, or call 0800 214 604.

Free marketplace for Blackfern Co-operative members

BLACKFERN HAS CREATED A FREE MARKETPLACE FOR MEMBERS TO BUY OR SELL SURPLUS ITEMS THAT AREN’T PART OF THEIR REGULAR BUSINESS AS AN ADD-ON BENEFIT TO ITS EBITS APP

Blackfern’s eBits app is the mobile phone and tablet version of its co-operative system that allows members to place orders with other members on the go, without having to sit down at the desktop in the office.

Now, in line with the worldwide trend towards conducting all business — and life in general — on the move through phone or tablet apps, Blackfern has added a marketplace to eBits. It allows members to find buyers for stuff they want to get rid of, or to find items that may be only slightly linked to members’ shared interest in the motor trade.

eBits is Blackfern’s web app parts requesting tool, an alternative way to send part requests to Blackfern suppliers. It’s a free-to-use tool for Blackfern members, and there’s no extra charge for Blackfern suppliers to be listed or involved in this additional channel.

It includes an interactive supplier directory, making it easy for members to find a supplier and then call or email with a single tap of the screen. Now Blackfern has increased the appeal and functionality of its app by adding a general marketplace.

“This marketplace is a free service that enables members to advertise and sell stuff to other members,” says Blackfern director Roger Castleton. “If someone has bought equipment or materials and some of it they no longer need, they can put it on the Blackfern marketplace and maybe help out another Blackfern member.

“We just wanted to add a service that we believe will benefit our members,” Roger explains. “There are no listing fees, selling fees, or any other charges, so it makes sense for members to give it a go and list any automotive equipment they’re no longer using.”

Roger says workshop owners have always got stuff such as cars, equipment, or

surplus parts they want to move on. “All they have to do is go onto the app, click on Marketplace, and add text and pictures. At this stage there is no fixed maximum time for a listing.”

Roger promises there is still more to come for eBits. “We have a long list of additions we plan to bring,” he says.

To check out the Blackfern marketplace, or the eBits parts requesting service, visit the Blackfern website at blackfern.coop/eBits.html for more information.

The best and brightest

NARVA’S NEW RANGE OF AEROTECH EMERGENCY LIGHTS TAKES AMBER WARNING LIGHTS TO THE NEXT LEVEL

Narva revolutionised the design of emergency lighting when it introduced the Aerotech range. Using the power and durability of LED lighting, it redesigned cases in a radically new low-profile sealed format, with no moving parts, that reduced drag and wind noise while increasing visibility.

The aerofoil shape with 45-degree flats also increased the visibility of the lights to observers at an angle, and the power of the LEDs make them visible in even the brightest sunlight conditions.

The broad new range of Narva ‘light boxes’, available with both clear and amber lenses, are designed to suit everything from the smallest service vehicle to the largest off-road machinery. They also meet New Zealand’s CoPTTM, the Code of Practice for Temporary Traffic Management, which provides best practice guidelines for all vehicles involved in traffic management in New Zealand.

A feature of the new range is that Narva has moved away from using traditional metal mounting brackets to adopt form-fitting cradle mounts that the lamps click into. Narva discovered that while the lamp units themselves were aerodynamic, bridge-type brackets allowed air to pass under the lamps which tended to generate wind noise. Magnetic mount versions are also available.

No air passes under the new cradles. Some lamps can also be mounted directly to vehicle surfaces without the use of a cradle where an ultra-low profile, perhaps for use among trees, is required.

A range of flashing patterns is available and several lamps can be synchronised. They also have a night-time setting which lowers the highpower daytime output to avoid dazzling other people at night.

The lightbox range was designed and tested by Narva’s own engineers to provide market leading visibility, durability, reliability, and adaptability. Narva’s testing showed the new range offers the most visible

vehicle light boxes on the market. They have a unique reflector design which maximises output and provides a uniform intensity around the light’s perimeter.

The cases are tough UV-resistant polycarbonate and they are ultrasonically welded and tested to IP67 and IP69K waterproof and dustproof standards, so they will easily withstand both bad weather and pressure washing. They have also been tested to military standards against vibration and shock loads.

Narva offers a seven-year warranty on its Aerotech light boxes.

For more information, see narva.co.nz.

Flush coolant with confidence

A PURPOSE-BUILT MACHINE MAKES COOLING SYSTEM FLUSHING SIMPLE, FAST, AND AN ADDED PROFIT CENTRE FOR WORKSHOPS

The Wynn’s Coolant Exchange Machine helps extend the life of vehicle cooling system components by cleaning out deposits, enabling coolant system components to work efficiently, as designed, which also helps prevent engine wear.

When used with the corresponding Wynn’s products, the Coolant Exchange Machine helps dissolve harmful deposits, suspending them in old coolant for easy removal.

The machine is designed to work with coolant at ambient temperature, making it a simple matter to work with vehicles waiting their turn in the workshop, also reducing the hazards involved with hot pressurised coolant. Similarly, disconnection is performed with the coolant at ambient temperature, making the process safe and convenient for technicians.

However, the machine has also been designed to work with hot engines and features a pressure release mechanism for safe access to a hot cooling system.

The unit also features a reverse flow operation, with the engine off, which helps dislodge deposits that accumulate with a single flow direction, and it has a built-in loop mode, ensuring thorough flushing. It runs through the flushing process automatically and automatically shuts off on completion of the service.

The self-contained unit is mounted on wheels to enable easy servicing of vehicles anywhere in the workshop, and it has a quick connect adapter system. Making it easy to set the machine up lowers the barrier to offering this added value service, increasing workshop revenue.

The convenience of performing an effective coolant system flush using a purpose-built automatic machine provides peace of mind to both the workshop and the customer. While it makes this component of scheduled servicing a simple task, it also provides the opportunity to offer it as an added value service on non-scheduled repair work, which can increase the performance and reliability of a vehicle after repair, or it can reveal cooling system faults needing repair.

CONSUMABLES

Wynn’s Cooling System Flush Kit comprises two components, Wynn’s Professional Formula Radiator Flush & De-Oiler, and Wynn’s Professional Radiator Sealant.

The flush formula removes scale and oil and grease deposits. It is safe for rubber hoses and all seals and metals used in cooling systems. It can be particularly effective in older cleaning cooling systems.

Wynn’s Radiation Sealant acts as a radiator

treatment working as a preventive as well as providing an effective solution for minor leaks.

The solution is water-based and is compatible with conventional as well as long-life organic acid based and hybrid antifreeze and coolant formulations.

It has additives designed to lubricate water pump seals which helps prevent pump cavitation and impeller failure. It is compatible with all type A and Type B coolants.

Interest free terms are available with all Wynn’s professional machinery. For more information, see autoserv.co.nz/wynns, or contact Autoserv for information on the interest free terms on 09 272 1940.

Dependable Delkor ensures fun in the sun

HELP YOUR CUSTOMERS PLAN FOR UNLIMITED FUN WITH A PRE-SEASON BATTERY FITNESS CHECK

Adventure enthusiasts looking to make the most of the long-awaited sun, sea, and sand this summer should look at getting their toys in top condition before the start of the holiday season.

You can help to ensure your customers guard against a midsummer meltdown by recommending battery checks and the peace of mind offered by replacement with award-winning Delkor batteries.

Delkor Deep Cycle batteries are designed with thicker plates and high-density active material to provide dependable deep cycle power. These lead acid batteries are suitable for applications such as caravans, RVs, motorhomes, and 4x4s that require steadfast power and repeated cycling over an extended period of time. For customers seeking

more capacity, the Delkor Heavy Duty Deep Cycle range is also available.

The Delkor range of deep cycle batteries are built with durable, expanded lead calcium alloy grids for both positive and negative plates. They are a proven, maintenance-free design with built in ‘state of charge’ hydrometer and flame arrestors in vents. These batteries also use liquid and gas separators to prevent fluid loss, low resistance microporous envelope separators, and lock-bonded cells for high vibration resistance.

The Delkor Marine & Leisure range is also available for boats and recreational vehicles of all shapes and sizes. These batteries are built with sturdy, vibration resistant components to supply power over long journeys and in all kinds of weather conditions. Some notable features of Delkor Marine & Leisure batteries include maintenance-free design, reliable electrical performance, lock bonding for added strength, and vibration resistance. These batteries also feature a high-strength polypropylene case for increased durability, and heat sealed covers with a built-in arrestor for enhanced safety. Delkor Marine & Leisure batteries are particularly suitable for dual power applications.

The comprehensive Delkor range has a suitable

battery available for every adventure. Delkor batteries are world renowned for quality and reliability, as seen by the brand being awarded the prestigious Korean Standard-Quality Excellence Award (KS-QEI) in the automotive battery category consecutively since 2006.

The complete range of Delkor batteries, including Deep Cycle and Marine & Leisure, is exclusively distributed by R&J Batteries in New Zealand. R&J Batteries is one of the fastest growing battery distributors in the Australasian region with branches in Wiri, Christchurch, Albany, and Hamilton in New Zealand, plus another 23 branches throughout Australia.

To find the right Delkor battery for your application, visit rjbatt.co.nz, or call 0800 546 000.

Know your brake sensors

MODERN BRAKE SENSORS ARE RELIABLE AND ARE A VITAL PART OF VEHICLE SAFETY

The introduction of technologies such as ABS and electronic stability control, or ESC, has led to major improvements in vehicle braking performance over recent decades. Technology has also helped to improve braking system maintenance. Years ago, pad wear was usually only revealed at a service by visual inspection.

If that check was overlooked, the next line of defence was the metal ‘squealer’ tabs which, when exposed, rubbed against the rotor making a loud and unpleasant noise — a strong incentive for drivers to visit a brake shop as soon as possible.

Some more sophisticated cars had brake sensors — basically a loop of wire with a low current passing through it. As the pad wore to the point where it needed replacement, the loop

contacted the brake rotor and created an open circuit, triggering a warning light.

These first basic sensors were prone to failure and were often bypassed rather than replaced — not good for the driver left with no indication of pad wear.

Fortunately, modern brake wear sensors are more reliable and can even estimate how many kilometres of service remain before the pads need replacing.

Mounted on the brake pad of any combination of the four wheels, modern two-stage sensors work using two resistor circuits that run parallel at two depths. As the first resistive circuit breaks, the resistance in the sensor increases. This is used to gather information such as wheel speed, brake pressure, brake disc temperature, brake operating time, and mileage to estimate the life left within the brake pads. The information is normally displayed in the vehicle’s information centre or as a warning light that varies in colour as the pad wears.

Once the second circuit is broken, the circuit becomes open. This triggers the warning light letting the driver know that it’s time for a brake service. Given that wear sensors are designed to break or complete a circuit by contacting the brake rotor, they aren’t a reusable item and should be replaced with every brake pad change.

Bendix offers brake pad wear sensors to suit a wide range of vehicles and models (over 900 applications). For greater convenience, certain Bendix brake pad kits, such as the Euro+ Brake Pads range, include replacement brake wear sensors as part of the package, along with all the other necessary components (clips, shims, etc) to do the brake job.

To learn more, contact your local Bendix stockist, or visit https://www.bendix.co.nz/

Who is Dorman?

DORMAN CHANGES THE GAME WITH REPLACEMENT PARTS DESIGNED TO RESOLVE THE WEAKNESSES IN OE PARTS

Dorman products offer a new aftermarket alternative for customers with a unique design objective.

Serving the US automotive aftermarket since 1918, Dorman has grown to dominate automotive maintenance by releasing parts and components once exclusively available through OEMs. Today, it produces more than 80,000 products, with numbers growing every year.

Dorman’s approach is to offer an aftermarket alternative to products that have previously

been ‘dealer only’. It starts with getting access to warranty data from OEMs in the US, and then creating aftermarket components that typically show up as warranty items.

Car manufacturers in the USA are mandated to make this information available. Now, with the help of local product managers in Australia and New Zealand, the range of new parts has been evaluated for local market needs, as will new parts as they become available.

NOT JUST REPLICATED BUT RE-DESIGNED

What makes Dorman’s aftermarket parts unique is that they are designed to not just simply replicate the OE part, but also to fix the issue that brought the OE part in for repair. As a result, the design and build are improved to produce a better and longerlasting component.

IM Group’s Dorman product range covers passenger vehicles, diesel vehicles, and heavy-duty applications. It includes many sub-components that

and reliable solutions which also save customers valuable time and money.

Dorman has delivered its products and repair solutions to Australia and New Zealand for the past five years. Sold exclusively by the Innovative Mechatronics Group (IM Group), thousands of these parts and components are now available to suit a wide range of global vehicles.

The IM Group is the only authorised reseller in Australia and New Zealand. You can find Dorman products stocked at your local parts supplier.

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

German car care expert Sonax lands at CoolDrive

THE VERY BEST CAR CARE PRODUCTS OUT OF GERMANY ARE NOW AVAILABLE IN NEW ZEALAND THROUGH COOLDRIVE, AS SONAX HITS THE SHELVES

The very best car care products out of Germany are now available in New Zealand through CoolDrive, as Sonax hits the shelves

The premium Sonax range at CoolDrive offers a product for everyone, no matter if they’re an enthusiast or professional, or the type of vehicle they’re working on.

The German brand has a product for all makes and models of vehicles, and separate product lines for both vehicle owners and professional use.

The Sonax Xtreme range is ideal for DIY enthusiasts, with car cleaning and car care products for a multitude of interior and exterior uses.

Meanwhile, the Sonax Profiline professional product range and accessories are designed for automotive workshops, body and paint shops, detailers, dealerships, car washes, and commercial vehicle operators.

Available within the Sonax Profiline range is

Racer Products steers customers through suspension compliance

NEW COILOVER SUSPENSION SET-UPS CAN EASILY COME UNSTUCK WHEN SEEKING COMPLIANCE. RACER PRODUCTS AND SCARLES HAVE THE KNOWLEDGE TO KEEP CUSTOMERS ON THE RIGHT LINE

Racer Products and Scarles general manager

Gene Rollinson says the question ‘what’s the big secret to getting aftermarket coilover suspension certified in New Zealand?’ is one the company gets asked a lot.

“More and more we are seeing vehicles fail compliance on suspension or customers not being able to get their aftermarket suspension certified,” says Gene. “On the compliance side, factory suspension costs can outweigh the value of the vehicle, and on the certification side, people are

sometimes being given incorrect information about what they can get certified, or not.”

He says another key issue with gaining certification is that there is room in regulations for individual certifiers to interpret the rules differently.

“We now work with Custom Compliance Workshop to guide customers through both compliance and certification. We’ve found doing this before people spend thousands on suspension they can’t use saves them both time and money — and it means a lot more people are getting their vehicles certified.”

Working through Racer Products or Scarles also gives the certifier confidence that the set-up will work and that safety margins for drivers and other vehicles will, if anything, be improved.

Gene Rollinson is himself a talented racing driver with a raft of on-track successes and a gift for car set-up and driver safety. In addition, workshops also get the benefit of the 20-plus years of racing experience of director Chris Petch. “What Chris doesn’t know about matching the right parts for the vehicle and racing or street application probably

Creating storage space out of thin air

BAC SPARE PARTS DRAWERS STORE YOUR PARTS IN SPACE YOU NEVER KNEW YOU HAD

Are you looking for more storage space?

Many workshops and parts departments find the space allocated for storage soon gets squeezed, forcing them to think of expansion. Instead of looking for new real estate, or knocking down walls to enlarge your parts department, BAC is encouraging logistics teams to make smarter use of their existing storage space. Based on their experience, they say many teams will be surprised to find how much space they haven’t been using!

BAC Systems is an Australian manufacturer of

industrial drawer storage cabinets. BAC Drawers are designed to be set up by configuring the storage volume. In most typical situations, shelves are generally only configured by length. The BAC approach is to start by selecting the height of the drawer to suit your parts, and adjusting the internal drawer partitions and dividers to the exact size you need. If the required size changes when your inventory changes, then you can simply adjust the drawer dividers.

This is a significantly different approach to working with boxes on shelves. The dead space in

isn’t worth knowing,” says Gene.

Racer Products acquired Scarles in March 2020 bringing the premier motorsport brands of Racer Products and the top tier performance brands of Scarles together under one roof at 41 Patiki Road, Avondale.

Along with Scarles came Mudstuck, the premier overland brand of high-quality expedition gear built for New Zealand conditions. The move has strengthened and improved all three businesses. In addition, Mudstuck has its own store based at Hampton Downs.

Bringing this pool of knowledgeable staff together means that when workshops call with parts queries or vehicle applications they can be assured of getting the best advice and the best price. “We’re even known to send people to our competitors if we think they have the best part for that particular application,” says Gene.

If your workshops need honest advice for your customers on anything suspension related, call 0800 RACER, or email sales@racerproducts.co.nz.

boxes quickly adds up. BAC says that when upgrading to drawer storage, customers have often found their storage footprint decreases dramatically — often by 50 per cent, sometimes by 70 per cent, and sometimes by more. This is because drawer cabinets use a higher percentage of the storage volume available in a given storage footprint.

BAC says a significant number of New Zealand dealerships have converted to the BAC Drawers system over the past four decades, but there are many more who have yet to realise the efficiency gains of adding a few BAC cabinets to their parts or tools stores.

In addition to saving space, BAC says the parts department is cleaner, fits more parts, and that picking out parts is much faster.

To find out how much space you can recover and use, see bacsystems.co.nz, or contact its agents Advance Fluid Control at advancefluidcontrol.co.nz to arrange a site survey.

Ensure fun in the sun with ACDelco batteries

MAKE SURE YOUR CUSTOMERS’ SUMMER HOLIDAYS DON’T COME TO A GRINDING HALT. FIT A NEW AC DELCO BATTERY

No doubt many families and adventure enthusiasts are gearing up for summer fun, booking accommodation and planning itineraries, but they could be overlooking a crucial part of their planned fun — their vehicle’s battery. Whether they are counting on a car, caravan, 4x4, or boat, a reliable and powerful battery is a must for every traveller. It’s time to remind your customers to get their batteries checked and get a replacement from ACDelco’s comprehensive range of batteries before a battery failure leaves them stranded.

Backed by the automotive giant General Motors, ACDelco is a global leader in the replacement parts industry. The brand is well regarded for its range of high quality and reliable batteries for automotive, commercial, deep cycle, marine, and garden applications. The range has been designed to provide solutions for the broadest range of

reliability, high power, and deep capacity. Expanded lead calcium grids make ACDelco M and HCM series batteries more durable and powerful than batteries with conventional casttype grids. The M series cranking batteries provide high cold cranking amps and improved vibration resistance compared to traditional automotive batteries. The HCM series features thicker plates and more active plate material than standard starting batteries for increased performance. The HCM series is designed to be a dual-purpose battery which can crank and provide improved cycling ability when needed. Strong engine starting power and cycling ability make these batteries a suitable choice for a wide range of marine, RV, and SUV applications. Both M and HCM series also feature dual fit terminals for easy fitment of additional accessories

such as Stop Start which put extra demands on batteries compared to their conventional counterparts. These batteries are built to perform in extreme conditions and challenging situations. ACDelco EFB batteries are constructed with full frame positive and negative grids, giving them the durability and reliability needed by Stop Start vehicles. The ACDelco AGM range represents the very best in advanced battery technology. They are designed with high compression absorbent glass mat separators which significantly increases the cycle life and improves charge acceptance compared to standard flooded lead acid batteries. These batteries provide high cranking power even when the state of charge is low.

While some customers will be exploring New Zealand this summer, others will want to dive into home renovation projects. If their garden is in serious need of a post winter makeover, garden and lawn mower equipment will be powered up for the task with an ACDelco battery. ACDelco garden and lawn mower batteries deliver high performance and a maintenance-free experience. The batteries are built with lead calcium expanded grids, housed in a rugged and durable polypropylene case with a heat-sealed lid to increase leak resistance. Additional features and benefits of the ACDelco garden and lawn mower range include spark and flame arrestors, high corrosion resistance, low self discharge rate, and lug terminals to suit most mower and stationary

Trust Trojan New Zealand

TROJAN HAS BEEN MANUFACTURING QUALITY TRAILER, BOAT, AND CARAVAN COMPONENTS FOR NEW ZEALAND TRAILER AND CARAVAN BUILDERS SINCE THE 1960S

From humble beginnings as a family company, Trojan has grown to represent one of the strongest and most reliable brands in the sector. During this time, Trojan has become a successful manufacturer, distributing through New Zealand, Australia, and the Pacific.

Trojan has close alignment with some of the top trailer builders in the country. A key factor in Trojan’s longevity has been testing products in New Zealand’s tough coastal environment which has led to the development of a range of products that are corrosion resistant and highly durable.

Trojan’s range covers couplings, suspension, hubs, brake components, lighting, electrical wiring, wheels, hardware, winches, axles, and much more. Trojan also distributes towing accessories and premium off-road towing equipment into the New Zealand market through partner brands such as Hayman Reese and Cruisemaster.

Trojan non-braked couplings are some of the most familiar on the market but, naturally, Trojan also makes braked couplings in spring or hydraulic versions for 50mm and 1 7/8-inch towballs, as well as a range of towing accessories and upgrade kits.

In fact, Trojan manufactures almost all of the fittings for trailers, including suspension, axles, brake kits, hubs and wheels, lighting and electrical, jockey wheels, stands, body hardware, boat trailer components, winches, and security.

Trailer safety is also catered for through a range of electronic brake controllers which have undergone detailed development to comply with

New Zealand regulations. Trojan also supplies a range of load levelling equipment and alternative hitches such as pintle hitches. Trojan‘s range is presented in detail on its website trojan.co.nz, which also features a store locator. Trade customers can activate an account for easy purchase of all Trojan products.

Trojan Trailer Parts are part of the AutoPacific Group, a world leader in innovative 4WD, towing, and trailering solutions. AutoPacific also distributes Hayman Reese towing equipment and accessories. Hayman Reese is one of the best known Australian brands in the towing business, having developed a broad range of equipment developed, tested, and built tough for Australia’s extreme conditions.

After AutoPacific Group expanded the range of outlets across New Zealand, Hayman Reese has become one of the fastest growing brands in the aftermarket for New Zealand’s burgeoning on and off-road ute population. The group is also the New Zealand distributor for Rola roof racks.

Demand for the new ranges was so great AutoPacific Group invested in a large new warehouse in Auckland in 2021, centralising distribution of both Hayman Reese and Trojan parts from the same warehouse. With distribution covered, AsiaPacific is aiming to add further upgrades to its e-commerce capability. Coming in 2023 is a trade customer portal for the group’s full range of products, and API plugins for web-based resellers.

The Hayman Reese range is detailed on its website haymanreese.com.au. It is probably best

known for its towbars, including the X-bar, specific models of which have been developed to cover the range of popular four-wheel drive vehicles, offering high strength towing capability and multiple vehicle recovery mounting points. Hayman Reese also covers a broad range of towing related kits including high spec coupling solutions, brakes, lighting, and weight distribution kits.

It has gone on to develop sway control systems, fifth wheel systems, goosenecks, cargo barriers, and bike racks.

For more information see trojan.co.nz or haymanreese.com.au.

Best in the West

Things are heating up for another major Repco Kumeu Classic Car & Hot Rod Festival in 2023, and they want you there if you’re a collector or just a fan of the old school. The classic car and hot rod community comes together over the course of three days to either take part in the festival’s celebration of classic cars and hot rods, or to simply catch up with friends while listening to the rumbling of the cars and potentially adding one or two to their wish list.

The festival, which is proudly owned and operated by Kiwis, promises to be an extravaganza you’ll look forward to attending every year. More than 1000 classic cars and hot rods will be onsite, along with over 100 trade sites offering specialty tools, car parts, project help, memorabilia, retro clothing, antiques, and classic car importers. In addition there will be more than 350 swap sites, and a retro caravan display sponsored by Very Vintage Day Out and Caravans and Classics.

Other attractions include slot cars, the Very Vintage Mini Market, onsite camping, retro beauty pageants sponsored by the Very Vintage Day Out, drag car start-ups, kid’s hot rod racing sponsored by Auto Magic, and a huge variety of food vendors, live music, and many other activities.

Repco has stepped up to the plate to sponsor the event, and the organisers say it would not be possible without Repco’s support. Jack Daniels, Battery Town, Petrolhead, and Classic Cover Insurance are also major sponsors, so the organisers are keen to see visitors showing their appreciation for them if they want to see this event and New Zealand’s car culture continuing to thrive.

The Repco Kumeu Classic Car & Hot Rod Festival 2023 will be held on January 20, 21, and 22. Tickets will be sold at the gates. For more information, see www.kumeuhotrodfestival.co.nz.

Investing in quality rust proofing

THE MARKET FOR UNDERBODY RUST PROTECTION IS GETTING SMARTER

There’s a broad range of underbody rust protection systems on the market but the concept of protecting brand new vehicles appears to be gaining traction.

Eighteen years ago, David Kirkham set about developing a rust protection service geared to New Zealand’s uniquely testing conditions, creating the Autolast system, applied through his company, Autoblast.

David says our largely coastal and gentle temperate

zone location actually provides ideal conditions to set up under-body rusting in only two or three years, as our warm, moist air condenses on cold steel parts overnight. Add salt into the mixture and rust is accelerated, especially if the vehicle is left standing. Ordinary new vehicle paint protection, designed for average inland conditions, stands no chance.

David says his customer base has shifted from addressing rusting vehicles towards treating brand new vehicles. He says a typical example would be

bach owners who leave vehicles — often utes — in those coastal locations for months and who have seen previous vehicles rust out fast. Jetskiers, who also expose their vehicles to more salt by launching off beaches instead of boat ramps, are also a growing customer segment.

The Autoblast process strips off paint and applies a permanent thixotropic layer, which is quite different to traditional wax/oil treatment that slumps over time. It is self-healing which means it softens, remoulds and hardens again in the event of a stone strike. Another popular but more expensive option is galvanising the bare metal. Lasting for decades on offshore oil rigs it is the gold standard in rust protection, and that option is proving increasingly popular.

David says another growing customer segment are owners of older or now classic four-wheeldrives who have seen their vehicles’ values “go through the roof”. While underbody rust might have been tolerated in the past, owners are now keen not just to slow it down but blast it all away and protect their investment.

David says he is currently inundated with customer enquiries from across the country and is booked out into next year. He is offering a franchise opportunity for the right investor, but he plans to be picky. Setting up an Autoblast franchise requires a significant investment in plant and equipment, and David doesn’t believe that trying to run it as a sideline, say to an existing panel shop, would give the new business the attention it deserves.

For more information on Autoblast’s processes — or its franchising opportunity — check out the extensive resources on the website autoblast.co.nz, or call David Kirkham on 09 443 6574.

WHETHER YOU ARE A COLLECTOR OR SIMPLY SHARE A PASSION FOR THE CLASSICS, THEN THE REPCO KUMEU CLASSIC CAR & HOT ROD FESTIVAL 2023 IS FOR YOU

Preparing for hydrogen fuel cell vehicles

HYDROGEN FUEL CELLS WON’T BE COMMON FOR A WHILE, BUT ANALYSTS STILL SAY THAT THEY ARE IN OUR FUTURE

First, some facts:

• They run solely on the most widely available element on the earth — hydrogen.

• They are a true ‘zero-emission’ vehicle, with only water vapour emitting from the tailpipe.

• Millions of dollars in private and public money are being invested in their development.

WHAT EXACTLY IS A HYDROGEN VEHICLE?

There are two main types. The old type: A hydrogen-powered ICE vehicle which has an internal combustion engine that burns hydrogen as its fuel, as did the old LPG and CNG vehicles. However, they need a large volume of hydrogen to produce adequate torque and you still get tailpipe emissions.

The new type: A fuel cell electric vehicle or FCEV uses a fuel cell to generate electricity which drives the wheels. It uses hydrogen as a source for generating electrical power that propels the vehicle. FCEVs are zero-emission vehicles, similar to electric cars; they just use hydrogen to drive the vehicle’s electric motor, instead of a battery. The fuel cell works somewhat like a battery, but the fuel cell does not run down or require charging. As long as there is a constant flow of hydrogen into the fuel cell, it will produce a steady stream of electricity and byproducts of only heat and water vapour. The heat dissipates

from the fuel cell, the water vapour is removed by a tailpipe, and the electricity is used to propel the car.

FCEVs do still have lithium batteries, which are used to store excess electricity generated by the fuel cell and any power generated by the vehicle’s regenerative braking system.

HYDROGEN CARS ARE STILL COSTLY TO PRODUCE — AND FUEL

To date, only three manufacturers offer FCEVs anywhere in the world: Toyota (with their Mirai), Hyundai (and their Nexo and new trucks), and the recently discontinued but still somewhat available Honda Clarity. Perhaps not unexpectedly, manufacturers are losing money on the vehicles they have produced so far.

Currently, most of the hydrogen for vehicle fuel is produced by the reformation of natural gas. This creates hydrogen and CO2. Although operating an FCEV is zero emission, the fuel production for them is not, somewhat defeating the idea that an FCEV has no climate impact.

As for the fuel, producing quality hydrogen for vehicles is expensive. This price would drop once it scaled up in its production as demand grew, but the

price is a current factor.

In addition, there is a push for more production of ‘green’ or environmentally friendly hydrogen. This is accomplished by production through an electrolysis process (with electricity coming from renewable sources). However, green hydrogen costs are even greater than traditionally made hydrogen.

HOW A FUEL CELL WORKS

The heart of an FCEV is the fuel cell, which relies on some simple scientific principles:

• Positively charged objects are attracted to negatively charged ones

• Protons carry a positive (+) charge; electrons

Toyota’s Mirai FCEV.

Several fuel cells (made up of membrane electrode assembly and two flow-field plates) are put together into a fuel cell stack which is considered the heart of the FCEV. Hydrogen gas is fed into it and transformed into electrical energy

carry a negative (–) charge

• Electricity is simply the flow of electrons

• The catalyst of the fuel cell splits hydrogen atoms into protons and electrons, creating electricity for vehicle propulsion.

WHAT HAPPENS IN A FUEL CELL?

Hydrogen atoms from the storage tank enter the negatively-charged side of the fuel cell — called the anode.

1. The hydrogen molecules are distributed across the surface of the anode

2. As the hydrogen comes into contact with the platinum catalyst, each atom is split into a positively charged proton and a negatively charged electron

3. The protons pass through the polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) while the electrons accumulate on the anode, creating a negative charge that pushes the electrons through an external circuit. This provides electricity for the vehicle

4. Meanwhile, on the cathode side, air containing oxygen gas (O2) enters the cathode side of the fuel cell. The two protons recombine with their electrons and then join one oxygen atom to form a water molecule — H2O

5. The water is vented to the atmosphere while more air is drawn in to continue the process.

HYDROGEN SAFETY

Although hydrogen is not a poisonous gas, it can displace oxygen in a confined area. However, it tends to diffuse rapidly and, being lighter than air, it rises when released. Rising hydrogen gas can create a safety issue if it becomes trapped. Repair facilities and fueling stations that service hydrogen vehicles are typically designed with ample ventilation to prevent hydrogen gas collecting under the building’s roof. Hydrogen sensors may also be installed in such facilities and be connected to an alarm system that is both audible and visual.

Hydrogen is flammable and burns with a pale blue flame that is difficult to see in daylight. The flame is smokeless and does not radiate very much heat. Therefore, it may be difficult at first to identify a hydrogen flame. An infrared camera can be used to view the heat signature of a hydrogen flame. A

common straw broom can also be extended into the location of the suspected fire to see if it ignites.

As with most other gaseous-fueled vehicles, a hydrogen fuel cell vehicle will have at least one temperature relief device (TRD) mounted on the vehicle’s hydrogen storage tank. Many hydrogen fuel cell vehicles have multiple hydrogen storage tanks. If so, each tank will have at least one temperature relief device. These devices are designed to rapidly vent hydrogen gas if the temperature at the device exceeds a given temperature (approximately 230 degrees F or 110 degrees C).

WHAT DOES A TECHNICIAN NEED TO KNOW?

Simply put, most of an FCEV’s components and systems parallel those of an electric vehicle. The high voltage battery, electric motor, control systems, and inverters use the same technology as EVs, and a diagnostic and repair technician familiar with electric vehicles will feel at home with the vehicle with two exceptions. The differences between EVs and FCEVs reside in the fuel storage system and the fuel cell.

As for safety, the technician should follow many of the same guidelines they follow for EVs and CNG vehicles:

• Use of HV insulating gloves and over-protectors

• Removal of HV battery pack service plugs before

FCEVs use a fuel cell to generate electricity which drives the wheels. It uses hydrogen as a source for generating electrical power that propels the vehicle. FCEVs are zero-emission vehicles, meaning their only byproducts are heat and water vapour

Use of HV-rated metres and leads

• Understanding the proper de-fueling methods when removing compressed hydrogen from a vehicle’s fuel tank

The hydrogen fuel storage and delivery system will be very familiar to those familiar with CNG vehicles. Hydrogen is stored in the vehicle in a fibre-wrapped fuel cylinder at pressures up to 10,000 psi, and it is filled at fueling stations similar to CNG technologies. An FCEV can be filled with hydrogen in about the same amount of time it takes to fill a gasoline or diesel vehicle (a distinct advantage over EV charging).

The fuel cell, however, will be maintained and repaired by specialised OE personnel for the foreseeable future. Fuel cells are complex, have no user or local technician parts that can be replaced, and are very well-protected pieces of technology (system operation and construction are guarded secrets). They are also the most expensive component in the vehicle and can make up over half the price of the whole vehicle. Therefore, it will be a long time before our industry is capable of any sort of fuel cell repair at the local level.

So, when it comes to FCEVs, it could be a really good thing, especially regarding the cost of petrol and diesel, currently. If we can get the infrastructure in place, it might be the next best technology since computerised fuel injection.

Another benefit of FCEVs is the fact that re-fuelling takes significantly less time — approximately five minutes — than the current recharge times for purely electric vehicles

Why torque and what are we trying to achieve?

IN PART 2 OF THE TECHNICAL SERIES TALKING TORQUE WITH HTC, WE LOOK MORE CLOSELY AT THE MECHANICAL PROCESSES WE ENGAGE WITH WHEN TIGHTENING A BOLT

We pick up the story here after the previous article which provided a basic overview of torque assurance and the importance of calibration. This time we’re delving deeper into what’s going on when we tighten down a bolt and find out why ensuring consistent results is so important.

Put very basically, we are aiming to stretch the bolt or stud (like a spring) so that the fastener stays tight. Too much stretch or, more technically, ‘elongation’ and the bolt can become weak and prone to breaking; too little stretch and the fastener may become loose. In our game both situations can equal downtime, non-compliance, or more importantly injury to ourselves or others.

The number one thing stopping us from obtaining the perfect amount of stretch every time is not variation in the effort applied, but friction. With this in mind, we must always begin our procedure with checking and cleaning bolts, studs, nuts, and surfaces. As simple as it sounds, this step is often overlooked, especially when changing a

tyre on the side of the road while it’s hosing down with rain.

After we have cleaned our threads and surfaces ready for assembly, we should refer to the manufacturers’ specifications to check exactly how much torque we need — usually this in a Nm (Newton meter) or Ft lbs (foot pounds) measurement. This is also an opportunity to note any other special precautions that may be needed. Some of these precautions may be the order in which we tighten each bolt down on a flange, the use of a torque setting plus an angle, or the use of special lubricants. The bottom line is that every bolt is different, and we should avoid using generic settings/procedures.

Another step commonly overlooked is the

re-checking of tensioned bolts after a suitable amount of time. This is very important. In applications where critical nuts and bolts are subjected to vibration and/or high heat fluctuations, consideration should be made towards periodic re-tightening, for instance, truck wheels are often retightened 100km after a tyre repair.

In the next edition we will cover some of the common types of torque wrenches in use today.

SynTec — the best protection for your 4x4

PROTECTING YOUR ENGINE IS EVERY BIT AS VITAL AS A BASH PLATE FOR SUCCESSFUL OFF-ROADING

Whether you are negotiating a South Island river crossing, or bush bashing a remote Coromandel track, you have probably invested in some quality vehicle protection. A bull bar, side steps, bash plates, and wheel guards are a given for any 4x4 enthusiast, helping to protect the vehicle from all manner of flora and fauna impacts.

But is this enough? Is there anything else that the weekend bash will throw at you, resulting in an extended stay at the nearest pub while wondering what went wrong?

Engines need protection too. The first line of defence is the air filter. A quality Ryco unit will protect against foreign debris large and small from entering

the intake and potentially ‘dusting the cylinders’. A well-prepared 4x4 must also protect the engine oil.

Oil filters are designed to collect and remove foreign particles from the oil while allowing consistent oil flow around the engine. This is your defence line, and a Ryco SynTec filter gives you the ultimate in engine protection.

SynTec oil filters use a high efficiency media designed to remove more dirt, keeping your engine cleaner under the toughest of conditions. Thanks to Ryco’s partnerships with Supercar teams, additional design enhancements such as larger inlet ports, a thicker base plate to protect against pressure surges, and a revised anti-drain back valve (ADV) for improved flow have been included in the engineering and construction of every SynTec filter.

Engine oils are manufactured with additives, such as detergents and dispersants, that

vehicle’s oil supply is cycled through the engine between four and five times a minute, contaminants left to circulate past the filter can cause abrasion between the crankshaft, conrods, camshaft, and valve train.

A failure in any one of these components will leave you sitting beside the road counting blades of grass while waiting for the tow truck or recovery vehicle.

The high efficiency media used in a SynTec filter removes 99.8 per cent of contaminants and is guaranteed to meet extended service intervals of up to 15,000 kilometres while resisting high temperatures created by hard-working engines.

SynTec media is made using the latest manufacturing techniques, which includes the use of tightly woven synthetic media, with fine synthetic fibres, designed to trap more dirt as oil moves through it, while allowing oil to pass through the filter easily and efficiently.

Protect your 4x4 with Ryco air filters, and build your defence against potential engine damage with a Ryco SynTec oil filter.

SynTec filters are available from your nearest Ryco stockist. To find out more, visit ryco.co.nz.

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

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

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

First ‘all-makes’ ACDelco store opens

ACDELCO HAS OPENED ITS FIRST BRANDED STORE LOCATION IN NEW ZEALAND — AND IT’S IN

CENTRAL HAWKE’S BAY

The new store is being launched in association with VC Motors in Waipukurau.

“This is an exciting opportunity for ACDelco to partner with VC Motors in offering the first dedicated store in New Zealand,” said William Henrie, regional director for GM Asia Pacific strategic markets, customer care, and aftersales.

ACDelco is best known for parts, batteries, oils, and associations with motorsport as well as offering an all-makes, all-models servicing option, plus parts sales to trade and retail customers.

“Key to ACDelco is that it is an all-makes, allmodels aftermarket brand, which can fulfil the needs of a huge variety of customers’ automotive requirements, ranging from a vehicle service through to a parts perspective,” said Stephen Matthews, general manager of aftersales for GM in New Zealand.

“We believe there is a significant opportunity for VC Motors to make a real statement in their local area and enhance the service offering available to their customers, and is likely to be the first of a number of ACDelco stores the length of New Zealand.”

ACDelco also offers factory parts for vehicles manufactured by GM, aftermarket parts for non-GM vehicles, as well as vehicle servicing.

“ACDelco all-makes products have an excellent reputation for quality and affordability, while trained technicians using quality Holden Genuine and all-makes ACDelco parts are able to service the needs of not just Holden owners but also the motoring needs of most vehicle owners in the Waipukurau district,” says Stephen.

In addition to selling parts to the public, ACDelco stores will also offer servicing for a variety of makes and models.

“We anticipate there will be a growing demand for all-makes servicing as the average age of vehicles increases and they are no longer covered by brand-specific scheduled servicing agreements,” Stephen says.

“We’re excited to be part of the growth of ACDelco and believe there is a huge opportunity for the brand as motorists become aware of the range of parts as well as servicing options available.”

With almost 50 years of experience in the automotive industry and more than 30 years as a Holden Certified Service Centre, Vaughan Chote and his team are looking forward to the opportunity the new ACDelco store presents.

“We can’t wait to deliver a new level of engagement and service to our valued customers,” said Mr Chote.

“We started from humble beginnings at VC Motors in 1990 and have grown the business to include nine employees. A lot of our success is thanks to the local district, so we can’t wait to introduce them to the all-new ACDelco experience, especially from an all-makes, allmodels perspective.”

The new ACDelco store in Waipukurau opened on Thursday, 27 October 2022.

More information can be found at www.acdelcovcmotors.co.nz.

ACDelco stores are complementary to more than 200 existing Holden Certified Service Centres in New Zealand and Australia, which remain as a presence to service more than 1.5 million Holden vehicles on the road Down Under.

Capricorn State of the Nation Report 2022

It collated responses from 1913 members, including 433 from New Zealand, to provide a credible and useful snapshot of the industry, from light and heavy mechanical workshops through panel and paint, the commercial sector, and more. The Capricorn member-based automotive industry buying group has 25,000 members and 2000 suppliers.

The full report is available on the Capricorn website but we have highlighted key features of the report here.

Capricorn group chief executive David Fraser said the good news in the report was that despite the ravages of Covid, the mood among members remained positive, and making customers happy, solving problems, and the variety of work gave most members real job satisfaction.

The report also teased out the big challenges. Topping the list were finding good staff, maintaining a work-life balance, including finding time for breaks, and the ongoing difficulty in finding parts, now joined by rising prices.

The report also discovered members were investing more in training and learning new technologies, which was clearly a good thing, although Fraser did make the comment that this was possibly more true for the more engaged group who responded to the survey than the population at large.

THE VALUE OF BENCHMARKING

Many businesses — especially in recent years when Covid has prevented conferences and workshops — operate in isolation, finding their own way forward. A survey like this provides an opportunity to look at the issues affecting other similar-sized businesses and to see how they are affected and how they are responding. And, of course, the report highlights both easy wins and concludes with recommendations, which are Capricorn’s considered response to the issues raised.

WHO’S WHO

Of those who responded to this year’s survey, 89 per cent ran independent workshops, 64 per cent ran mechanical workshops, and almost three-quarters were the sole decision-makers in their businesses.

The average respondent was male and aged 46.

• Members have been working an average of 22 years in the industry and running their own workshop for 14 years.

• 14% of vehicles serviced are 2019 models or newer, 18% are 2016-18, and 21% are 2011-15.

• On average, workshops see 28.6 vehicles a week. Australian workshops average 27.3 vehicles and New Zealand workshops 33.

Most respondents were from Australia, with 23 per cent from New Zealand. Commercial truck respondents increased five percentage points on last year, to 10 per cent. Most respondents operated mechanical workshops. See Figure 1.3.

Members had an average of 4.4 staff, ranging from the 22 per cent who had one team member, to the 24 per cent who had six or more. The average number of hoists was 2.9. How are we keeping our hoists busy? More than three-quarters relied on word-of-mouth marketing. Just over half are using social media channels to find work and communicate with customers. See Figure 1.7 and

the best thing about working in automotive; almost a third said they enjoyed the fun of problem-solving and fixing things, with six in 10 members saying that being successful means

THE STATE OF THE NATION REPORT IS CAPRICORN’S LANDMARK SURVEY. IT LOOKS UNDER THE BONNET OF THE AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY IN AUSTRALIA — AND NEW ZEALAND — TO UNDERSTAND THE CURRENT STATE, ISSUES, AND EMERGING CHALLENGES FACING MEMBERS IN THESE TWO COUNTRIES.

• 46% of members had trouble finding time to take a holiday, compared to 54% in 2021.

• Just 28% of members said changing technology was a challenge for the industry (down from 49% in 2020) as Australia’s Right to Repair laws come into effect.

• Insurance companies determining prices is a major challenge for panel and paint shops (65%).

FOR VEHICLE REPAIR WORKSHOPS

1. The shortage of qualified technicians continues but members are taking on more apprentices and there’s a great opportunity to create a more diverse industry to attract new talent.

2. Both pay rates and labour charge-out rates are up as members grapple with the skills shortage. But many are still missing opportunities when it comes to calculating margins and mark-ups.

3. Supply chain issues continue to cause some shortages in spare parts and members should plan ahead so they’re always prepared.

4. While members are generally both happy and optimistic, many still struggle to take a break and maintain their work-life balance. It’s an area that needs real attention.

5. Members have made a lot of improvements in the past couple of years but there are still plenty of easy wins open to boost profitability and efficiency in most workshops.

three percentage points on 2021, to 39 per cent. Commercial truck and panel and paint businesses have been most likely to experience major delays in

procuring parts and equipment. Few business types have been free from supply chain issues at some level. “The emergence of inflation and related price and cost pressures, the geopolitical unrest, and ongoing pandemic are all contributing to these inflationary pressures,” David said. Almost two in five members said finding good staff was a challenge (see our Skills Shortage section). Despite several excellent resources being available, three-quarters of members still use Google to find technical information. Almost one in five members said access to technical information and diagnostics, changing technology, and staying up-todate were major challenges.

CHALLENGE 2: SKILLS SHORTAGE

A lack of qualified staff is the top challenge facing the industry, and finding good staff remains a top three challenge for members in running their businesses. Fifty-six per cent of members were very or extremely concerned about the problem. The larger the workshop, the greater the problem. A third of members were struggling to find skilled staff, a quarter were currently looking for staff, and 15 per cent had unfilled positions. That’s causing backlogs of work, longer working hours, a reduction in work-life balance, an increase in stress, and longer turnaround times. As we identified last year, we’re not attracting or employing enough apprentices. We’re also not employing enough women or providing enough opportunities for them. Just 6 per cent of workshops have a female mechanic and just 12 per cent employ a female apprentice (Figure 5.3). Our industry cannot afford to ignore 50 per cent of the labour market.

Labour rates and wages are up 6.8 per cent across the board this year. The highest pay increases are 11 per cent for Australian auto electricians and 12 per cent for New Zealand panel beaters and spray painters. Investing in current employees by providing training can help with staff retention rates and simultaneously improve productivity. It is

then it’s all about making sure you know what your values are and then living by them, expecting those who work for you to share them. A great culture

FIVE

EASY WINS

STOP GOOGLING FOR QUICK FIXES

Don’t know how to repair something? Three-quarters of members are turning to the internet to search for information on how to repair, install, or replace.

• In Australia, new Right to Repair Laws that came into force on 1 July gave access to significant amounts of information and data. Make use of it.

• Capricorn Service Data, powered by Auto Data, is free to all members and has service information on more than 34,000 different vehicles.

REASSESS YOUR MARGIN ON PARTS

How are you calculating your margin on parts?

Don’t simply put a set percentage mark-up on all parts sales. Be thoughtful in the way you calculate what you charge.

• If you saved money on the purchase of the part but only charge your usual percentage margin, you’re passing the savings on to the customer. Could those funds be invested into your business instead?

• Don’t just match the retail price for a part, understand your break-even point and the margin you need to make.

CHARGE FOR DIAGNOSTICS

Almost half of all workshops are still only charging for diagnostics sometimes. More than one in 10 never charge. They are throwing money away.

• Diagnostic equipment is expensive. Charging for it helps cover the cost of the equipment, the all-important updates, and the time taken to do the diagnosis.

• It’s time to recognise the specialist knowledge, skills, and years of training and experience that go into diagnostics. Doctors don’t diagnose for free; nor should skilled workshop technicians.

REASSESS YOUR CHARGE-OUT RATE FOR LABOUR

Qualified technicians are getting harder to find, so labour costs have gone up. Consider whether that’s a cost you can afford to absorb or whether you need to pass it on to your customers.

• Labour charge-out rates of members who participated in the survey are up by an average of $5 an hour on last year, suggesting many members are choosing to pass on costs, rather than absorb them.

are extremely or very confident about the future of their businesses, while 44 per cent are confident in the future of the industry as a whole (Figure 7.1) . The biggest question mark members have about the future is the transition to EVs, with a third saying it made them either not at all confident or only slightly confident about the future. That’s up seven percentage points on last year. Retirement planning and succession planning appear to have stalled, with 45 per cent of over 55s having either no plan or saying it’s too early to plan. Fewer members now plan to put their businesses up for sale when they retire. Capricorn CEO of Automotive Bradley Gannon said that means many members will fail to realise the value of the asset they’ve built.

RECOMMENDATIONS

MAKE USE OF QUALITY DATA SOURCES

Stop Googling for information about repairs. Use reputable resources, like Capricorn Service Data.

GET READY FOR EVS

Whether you like them or not, they’re the future. We’re going to see more of them on our roads and you need to be ready for them.

TAKE ON AN APPRENTICE

They’re our pipeline of future talent and the long-term solution to the skills shortage. Provide opportunities for female apprentices.

CHARGE CUSTOMERS FAIRLY

Charge for diagnostics. Mark up parts thoughtfully. Consider increasing your labour charge-out rate if necessary to meet rising costs.

PLAN FOR SPARE PARTS SHORTAGES

While global supply chains are causing problems getting parts, Capricorn Members should feel confident that our Preferred Suppliers are doing everything they possibly can to supply members with the parts they need.

Don’t fall behind your competitors or risk turning away business because you don’t have the tools or training you need. Recoup tech costs by charging for diagnostics.

CREATE AN EXCELLENT WORKPLACE CULTURE

Make your workshop the kind of place people want to be. Embrace the benefits of a more diverse workforce.

Whether it’s growing your business or handing over to the next generation, have a plan in place for the future. It’s never too early to have a succession plan in place.

To read the full report, download it from the Capricorn website here: https://www.capricorn.coop/campaigns/state-ofthe-nation-2022.

LDV first to answer the ‘unfair’ call

The motoring press was filled with complaints when the government announced its electric car rebate scheme and said it would be followed up with a surcharge on high fossil fuel consumption vehicles.

Many people claimed utes were essential vehicles and that it was fundamentally unfair to impose a tax on them, even a delayed one, when they had no choice because there were no electric utes.

Well, LDV is the first to market with what presumably is the answer to their prayers, an electric ute. Its 325-kilometre range won’t make it ideal for cruising the length of the main islands but for a daily working vehicle it is surely more than adequate.

LDV has already launched the eT60 in Australia

Zealand buyer, with an 88.5kW/h battery and a 130kW / 310Nm permanent magnet electric motor driving the rear wheels, offering a respectable 325km range, based on the stringent WLTP test regime. It has a maximum braked tow rating of 1500kg.

Specification includes a suite of safety equipment, a 10.25-inch touch screen, 17-inch alloy wheels, quality leatherette seating, and a useful 220V mains power outlet. That will come in handy for tradespeople who can plug in electric drills and other tools when off grid.

The battery can be charged via an 11kW charger in approximately nine hours, while DC fast-charging takes approximately 45 minutes to charge from 2080 per cent full.

21.3kWh per 100km.

The eT60 features a heavy-duty suspension setup with double independent wishbones up front and a leaf spring rear, with ventilated disc brakes all round.

Open the tailgate and a spray-in tub liner keeps the bed protected from wear and tear, while four tie-down points help secure the trickiest of loads or a useful payload of 1000kg.

Inside, the practicality continues with essentials like multi-function steering wheel, Bluetooth connectivity, rain-sensing windscreen wipers, sixway electrically-adjustable front seats, 10.25-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay, and air conditioning.

LDV is also entering the large electric van

configurations — short and long wheelbase versions

‘More Abarth than EVer’

Fiat performance arm Abarth is redefining its brand by debuting the fully electric New Abarth 500e, saying it is actually ‘more Abarth than EVer’.

Olivier Francois, Stellantis chief executive and chief marketer of Fiat and Abarth, says the car stays true to its Abarth DNA by being the most responsive Abarth in urban driving and the fastest in suburban driving.

“In short, it is more Abarth than ever.“

He said electric only improves driving pleasure and ensures more sprint, greater balance, more stability, and better road holding. It is one second faster than the petrol Abarth in urban pick-up, which means 50 per cent faster acceleration from 20 to 40 km/h than its petrol-powered counterpart. The new Abarth 500e is also faster outside of city driving, for example on hairpin bends, where from 40 to 60 km/h it can reach the target speed in just 1.5 seconds — much faster than its petrol version, which lags behind by 15 metres, reaching 60 km/h a second later.

“You may ask ‘why electric?’ Well, basically, performance made us do it: in fact, every change made in the Abarth is about getting the best driving performance,” said Francois. That’s exactly how our founder, Carlo Abarth, always went at it. Abarth has been always synonymous with performance, competition, thrill, and an attitude that has been electrifying people since 1949.

“In a nutshell, for Abarth electrification means being more fun and more competitive.”

The new Abarth 500e is equipped with a 42-kWh battery and an electric motor that delivers 113.7kW/155hp. It can reach 100 km/h from zero in seven seconds. It boasts best-inclass acceleration, plus zero emissions.

To make sure drivers recognise they are in a proper Abarth, Fiat is adding a traditional Abarth soundtrack.

Fiat says the New Abarth 500e is the first and only city car equipped with a sound generator for those who don’t want to give up on the Abarth auditory signature — the unmistakable

Abarth roar. The sound generator matches engine performance, faithfully reproducing the sound of an Abarth petrol engine.

Real Raptor sound in the wild

If making its ute look big and tough isn’t enough for some, Ford is giving the new Ranger Raptor an active valve exhaust system that will allow owners to make the ute sound all brawny as well — or start nice and quietly when they don’t want to wake the neighbours. “For the next Ranger Raptor we wanted to really make the character of the car come alive, to emphasise the power and define the presence of the vehicle, but not make the car tiring when it didn’t need to be. We spent hundreds of hours tuning and developing the sound of the vehicle and really think we have something that sounds right for the truck,” said Justin Capicchiano, Ford performance and special vehicle engineering manager.

The active valve system on the 3.0L twin-turbo V6 can be controlled by the driver based, on their mood using the ‘exhaust mode’ button, or adjusted automatically to match the drive mode: quiet, normal, sport, or Baja, which offers maximum noise. Ford says that is intended for off-road use only However, for people who want to experience the Baja exhaust note now, Ford has created a ringtone. It can be downloaded from www.ford.com.au/ showroom/next-gen-ranger-raptor/exhaust-system/.

It takes its name from Ford’s success in the Score International Baja 1000 race. A new generation Ranger Raptor, race-prepped but remaining stock and street legal, finished in first place in the stock mid-size class, then drove back to its home base in Riverside, California.

“This is the Baja 1000, one of the toughest

off-road races in the world,” said Mark Rushbrook, global director of Ford Performance motorsports. “It’s a key proving ground for Ford Performance and our vehicles to earn the badge of Raptor. This effort has been a global effort for Ford Performance from the beginning, with Ford Australia having done

the design and initial development signoff, then shipping it to the States and working with all of our partners to pool all available resources for this common goal. It takes a great truck and it takes great people. We’ve proved that we have both of those on a global level.”

Checklist: Brake system inspection

A CHECKLIST COVERING SOME OF THE MOST IMPORTANT AREAS TO REVIEW WHEN PERFORMING A BRAKE SYSTEM INSPECTION

When a customer visits a workshop because their brake service light is on, or they’re hearing noise when the brakes are applied, or feeling vibration, or even smelling a chemical or burning odour when braking, it’s time to inspect the braking system.

While it always pays to listen to a customer, regardless of what the customer may think is wrong with the vehicle, it is vital that you, as a technician, know the importance of performing a full brake system inspection to ensure that you complete the right service for the vehicle and don’t miss anything. Here’s a handy checklist covering some of the most important areas to review when performing a brake system inspection:

1. Test drive the car. Check for any noises, vibration, or abnormal smells when applying the brakes.

2. Inspect the tyres. Make sure there are no punctures or damage to the tyres or rims that could be causing the symptoms your customer is experiencing.

3. Check the vehicle’s suspension system. Again, this could be the cause of wobbles or vibration that your customer is feeling.

4. Look for leaking, cracked, or damaged hoses.

5. Fluid leaks can cause big problems, so make sure

everything is sealed and in good working order.

6. If needed, replwace any leaking or damaged steel lines.

7. Replace any leaking or damaged calipers. Use an OE-quality caliper that is new, and not remanufactured. Brakes are not something you want to go cheap on.

8. Check the brake master cylinder for leaks. Leaks can be a common cause for repair. Make sure any replacement master cylinder has the correct OE-style reservoir connections to prevent leaks, and that they are made of corrosion-resistant materials to ensure a long service life.

9. Test the brake pedal. Make sure movement is smooth and it completely depresses.

10. Inspect rotors and drums for damage. Lowquality rotors can wear unevenly, causing pulsation when the brakes are applied and uneven pad wear. This can lead to more problems. High carbon rotors should always be used to help prevent these issues.

11. Replace brake pads. Pads should be thoroughly examined for wear. Remember, brake pads and brake rotors should always be serviced and replaced at the same time, using OE-quality brake pads.

12. Service wheel bearings if needed.

13. Lubricate caliper slides and shoe pads.

14. Check brake fluid and flush if necessary. Often neglected, old brake fluid can cause problems if it’s not serviced regularly. The fluid should be light in colour. If it’s dark, it’s time to swap it out for fresh brake fluid.

15. Adjust the parking brake, if applicable, on the vehicle.

16. Check and replace any faulty sensors. Once you’ve completed a thorough review of all braking system components and performed the necessary maintenance, it may be useful to remind your customer of what factors contribute to excessive wear on their braking system:

• If wear seems excessive since the last brake service, try to ensure they are not ‘riding the brakes’.

• Too much load. Carrying more weight in the vehicle than it is rated for will add to brake wear, as well as increase fuel consumption.

• Heavy or aggressive braking, especially at high speeds, will increase wear on the system, not just on the pads and rotors.

• Frequent driving in wet or extreme weather can create the need to brake more quickly to prevent slipping or skidding, again placing additional wear on the system.

Remind customers that their braking system is a major safety component in the vehicle, so making sure it is properly maintained is critical to staying safe on the road. By keeping a checklist handy, you can inspect brake systems quickly and accurately, ultimately making the correct repairs and getting the car back on the road as quickly as possible.

Auto Channel Lyndar Nov22.indd

Products The latest automotive products

ACDelco for marine batteries

The ACDelco range includes Marine Starting (M Series) and High Cycle Marine (HCM) batteries specially designed for marine and recreational vehicles that demand high-cranking power and deep capacity for running electrical equipment. The M series provides higher cold cranking amps and improved vibration resistance than regular automotive batteries. The HCM series features thicker plates and more active plate material for increased performance.

For more information, or to become a stockist, call 0800 546 000, or visit rjbatt.co.nz.

G-sensor automatically saves footage in the event of an impact, and a hand gesture will also take a snapshot and save recent footage. The unit comes with adhesive mounts, power cables, and a 16GB Micro SD card, which continuously loops recordings over unsaved footage. The XV22DVR dual camera kit is available from Repco. See xviewdrive.com for details on the full range.

Corghi truck and bus tyre changer

The Corghi HD850A automatic tyre changer is designed to handle any type of truck and bus wheel, tubed or tubeless, up to 26 inches in diameter. The unit has been almost entirely reconfigured. The new structure has been designed to increase robustness, while the new hydraulic power unit gives the tyre changer far more strength and speed for work operations.

For more information see automaster.co.nz, call 0800 214 604, or email info@automaster.co.nz.

Smooth new NAPA spray

NAPA’s own brand Silicone Lubricant Spray in the distinctive blue can is coming soon. Silicone spray is ideal for lubricating sliding surfaces and it rejuvenates rubber parts. It is odourless, colourless, and leaves no stain. It protects against moisture and will work on most surfaces. NAPA Silicone Spray will be available soon from NAPA Auto Parts, along with other products in the new blue aerosol range — a cleaner and degreaser, specialist brake and parts, carburettor and throttle body, and electrical contact cleaners.

For more information, see page 46.

Clean deep with Sonax MultiStar

Sonax MultiStar is a powerful all-purpose cleaner designed for soaking heavily soiled surfaces. The alkaline-based cleaner acts fast to remove grease, road grime, insects, and dirt. It is safe to use on interior surfaces such as plastics, carpets, textiles, floor mats, and rubber, leaving a clean matt finish. Available in a 10L canister, the concentrated solution must be diluted with ratios from 1:5 to 1:50.

Now available at CoolDrive. For more information, visit cooldrive.co.nz.

Remove ‘dirty’ vehicles from fleet, minister tells MTA conference

TRANSPORT MINISTER MICHAEL WOOD REITERATES THE GOVERNMENT’S DRIVE TO CLEAN UP THE NATIONAL FLEET’S CARBON NEGATIVE VEHICLES

Transport minister Michael Wood opened the Motor Trade Association’s recent conference and highlighted his aspirations to see one and two-star rated vehicles removed from the national fleet as soon as possible, as part of the government’s ‘Road to Zero’ strategy.

“Urgent action is required to address the climate crisis and shift our fleet from being one of the oldest and dirtiest in the world,” Minister Wood told attendees.

He also praised the MTA for its collaborative approach to the problems the industry faces.

“You have been critical for safety and resilience right across our transport system and right across our communities,” he said.

MTA president Bob Boniface highlighted the challenges facing members and MTA’s goals in relation to sustainability.

Bob said these include developing the resources, materials, referrals, case studies, and sector expertise members need to make the day-to-day and investment decisions that will help to reduce the industry footprint, while increasing their viability.

Political and economic commentator Bernard Hickey highlighted the positives of 3.3 per cent unemployment and said that even though house prices might have dropped, homeowners are still very

rich, which points to a more vibrant economy.

Bernard also touched on government debt, noting it is extraordinarily low compared to our past, and to other countries currently. “New Zealand is in a great position to survive economic shocks,” he said.

Falling dollar fuels tyre price blowout

A PERFECT STORM OF ADVERSE FACTORS IS LIKELY TO PUSH TYRE PRICES HIGH IN NEW ZEALAND

Afalling dollar and rising material costs for tyres will result in grumpy customers for businesses in the repair sector with a myriad of influences driving rising prices. That’s the view of senior technical specialist for TyreMax New Zealand, Bill Prebble. He says every cost factor involved in the supply of tyres is climbing and that’s going to have a roll-on effect across all industries and hit the public hard in their pockets.

“We are on the receiving end of oil. It doesn’t matter what you do, tyres are an oil-derived product,” he said.

Bill says, there is now a perfect storm brewing involving Western sanctions on Russia, the war in Ukraine, and a falling New Zealand dollar coming at the worst possible time for the tyre industry.

“What has happened in Europe is all the rubber prices have gone through the roof along with carbon black prices, and the exchange rate has

gone down, meaning tyre importers have to have a higher amount of capital to hold product in the warehouse,” he said.

A driver safety problem could now be the challenge, Bill said, as the 12-month warrant of fitness standard for vehicles registered from 2000 creates a situation in which more worn tyres will be pushed further.

“Human nature comes into it with vehicle owners eking out more mileage on a worn tyre because the car still has a warrant and it still drives,” Bill says.

Bridgestone has also voiced concern about rising prices.

In response to questions from MTA, Bridgestone’s head of sustainability and communications, Jo Hayes, said: “Like most industries and companies, the tyre industry is not immune to the pressure of rising costs — freight

and raw materials, to name only a few. Businesses have little choice but to pass on these increases to customers.

sales, and collision repairers — enjoy the benefits of

Minister Michael Wood and MTA president Bob Boniface at the MTA conference

Senior technical specialist for TyreMax New Zealand, Bill Prebble, among the tyres in one of seven warehouses around the country

PARTSSUPPLYBearings,diffs,alternators,brake components, radiators,engine components,batteries,trailerparts

REPAIRSERVICEAutoelectrical,gearboxes,cylinderheads, enginerebuilds,suspension,cooling SERVICECONSUMABLESOils,grease,coolant,transfluid,bulbs,flushes

WORKSHOP CONSUMABLES Rags,lubricants,PPE,aerosols,abrasives, cleaners,carcare,aircon

SUSPENSIONAND STEERING Tierods,balljoints,rackends, bushes,bearings,shocks

AFTERMARKET ACCESSORIES Audio,performanceparts,bodykits, dressup,paint/wrap,driveline

WORKSHOP EQUIPMENT

Diagnostics,hoists,electrics,powertools, handtools,specialistserviceequipment AUTOREFINISHERSRestoration,smashrepairs,auto-bodysupplies,spraypainters,paintcorrection

WINDSCREENSANDGLASSWindscreens,chiprepairs,sideglass, mirrors,wipers,customfitment

WHEELSANDTYRESOEMreplacement,tyres, fitting/balancing,repairs,consumables,innertubes

DRIVETRAINREPAIRSERVICE

Transfercases, Automatic Gearboxes,Manual Gearboxes,DSG’s,CVT’s, Differentials,Wheelbearings,TorqueConverters

0800 472 787

0800 333 125

aecs.net or 06 874 9077

bntnz.co.nz or 09 414 3200

hcb.co.nz or 0800 422 228

precisionequipment.co.nz 0800 246 478

jasoceania.co.nz or 0800 527 335

dieseldistributors.co.nz or 09 265 0622

09 836 6673

autolign.co.nz or 09 574 2288

tatp.co.nz or 0800 268 266

smitsgroup.co.nz or 0800 227 422

smitsgroup.co.nz or 0800 227 422

griffithsequipment.co.nz or 09 525 4575

parts@1stautoparts.co.nz or 09 638 6439

mountshop.co.nz or 0508 866 686

bmw.co.nz or 0508 269 727

cyb.co.nz or 09 978 6666

0800 465 855

0800 549 429

automaster.co.nz or 0800 214 604

centurydistributors.co.nz

patchrubber.co.nz or 0508 837 248

dtm.co.nz or 0800 621 233

penriteoil.co.nz or 0800 533 698

nzmotoroils.com or 0800 942 645

0800 383 566

redarcelectronics.co.nz

0800 757 333 or fenixautoparts.co.nz

crc.co.nz or 09 272 2700

rjbatt.co.nz or 09 636 5980

treadwayequipped.co.nz 0800 436 436

sales@advancefc.co.nz 0800 538 058

holden.co.nz/dealers

07 850 5240

mmnz.co.nz or 0800 54 53 52

cooldrive.co.nz or 0800 327 868

ryco.co.nz or 0800 838 222

SUSPENSIONAND STEERING Tierods,balljoints,rackends, bushes,bearings,shocks

WORKSHOP EQUIPMENT Diagnostics,hoists,electrics,powertools, handtools,specialistserviceequipment

REPAIRSERVICE

WINDSCREENSANDGLASSWindscreens,chiprepairs,sideglass, mirrors,wipers,customfitment

WHEELSANDTYRES

AUTOREFINISHERS

ford.co.nz or 0800 367 369 

tyreorder.co.nz or 0800 80 90 96

moreyoil.co.nz or 09 813 9200

gearwrench.co.nz

Napa.co.nz or 0800 800 073

trojan.co.nz or 0800 876 526

fuchs.co.nz or 09 828 3255

bendix.co.nz

09 636 5428 or sales@clutchindustries.co.nz

nz.macnaught.com or 0800 023 510

tridon.co.nz or 09 259 4327

ateco.co.nz or 09 979 8000

eproducts.co.nz or 09 916 6750

eshop.wurth.co.nz or 0800 683 040

alleuroparts.co.nz or 0800 255 387

haymanreese.co.nz or 0800 MYTBAR

Injectronics.co.nz or 0800 536 547

goss.co.nz or 0800 536 547

capricorn.coop or 0800 401 444

NAPA offers five new workshop tools in aerosol cans

NAPA AUTO STORES IS LAUNCHING A NEW RANGE OF OWN BRAND AEROSOL PRODUCTS FOR WORKSHOPS THAT WILL BE AVAILABLE SOON

Five new aerosol products in distinctive NAPA blue cans have been added to NAPA Auto Parts’ extensive range of tools, parts and consumables for the professional workshop.

NAPA Auto Parts range of branded products make it easy for workshop technicians to find professional quality specialist consumables.

NAPA aerosols are a range of high-quality workshop consumables designed specifically to meet the demands of the motor trade, industrial, and agricultural sectors.

The NAPA Cleaner & Degreaser offers heavyduty cleaning with a simple spray and wash off operation. Its non-corrosive formula is designed to remove grease and oil, and will be available in a 400g can.

Also in a 400g can is NAPA Carburettor & Throttle Body Cleaner. It cleans glazed deposits from carburettors that build up over time, and it also works on heat riser valves and PCVs, and will clean both interior and exterior surfaces. No tools are required to aid the cleaning and it dissolves quickly without leaving a film.

The NAPA Electrical Contact Cleaner comes in a 350g can. It removes moisture, dust, and oils, and is plastic safe. It uses a proven stable high-purity cleaning solvent. It is residue free — evaporating rapidly and completely from surfaces.

Another product that evaporates leaving no residue is the NAPA Brake & Parts Cleaner. It can be applied without requiring disassembly of the brakes, removing dust, grease, dirt, and fluids, to restore proper brake function. The chlorine free, heavy-duty formulation is also ideal for cleaning a wide range of other small parts, and will be available in a 350g can.

The fifth product in the new aerosol range is the NAPA Silicone Lubricant Spray. Silicone spray is ideal for lubricating sliding surfaces and it rejuvenates rubber parts. It is odourless and colourless, and leaves no stain. It protects against moisture and will work on most surfaces.

NAPA Silicone Spray, along with the other products in the new aerosol range, will be available from NAPA Auto Parts branches nationwide