Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine - October 2019

OCTOBER 2019

CASTING FORWARD TO THE ‘DRIVERLESS’ REVOLUTION

TOWING & FRONTAL PROTECTION

ONE GIANT LEAP FOR GERMAN-KIND

ABOUT THE COVER 10 million possibilities, all-new cubes with flexi-funnel.

REGULAR DEPARTMENTS AAAA Report ......................................... 4 Calendar................................................ 5 New Members........................................ 5 News................................................... 10 Products.............................................. 28 Inside Business.................................. 108

HR Matters........................................ 109 Consumer Law.................................... 110 Inside Inventory.................................. 111 PRTC................................................ 112 4WD.................................................. 114

11

KEEPING YOU INFORMED A fresh new look for a modern AAAA............................................................................. 4 Curb The Rage......................................................................................................... 10 A new name in the automotive aftermarket.................................................................. 11 New trials underway.................................................................................................. 12 Monroe supports a very Special Variety Bash entry....................................................... 13 The end of the Commodore?...................................................................................... 14 Burson Auto Parts plays its part in protecting the environment...................................... 18 4x4 Culture LIVE on sale .......................................................................................... 20

78

FEATURES Feature Story: Penrite offers up the good oil on manufacturer approvals.......................... 22 R&D: Hayman Reese knows towing.............................................................................. 24 2019 Innovation Awards: Electrical.............................................................................. 72 Member Feature: Unique Auto Parts - Dreaming big and growing fast.............................. 74 Special Feature: Casting forward to the ‘driverless’ revolution......................................... 76 Towing and Bullbars: Looking after your customers’ needs.............................................. 78 Oils and Lubes: All the latest on oils and lubes............................................................. 92 Future Auto Innovations: One Giant Leap for German-kind............................................. 104 Trade Talk: Hella’s Darren Robinson - Switching to a land Downunder.......................... 106

106

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

CAB Audited

Suite 16, Building 3, 195 Wellington Road, Clayton VIC 3168, Australia Phone: 03 9545 3333 Fax: 03 9545 3355 Email: info@aaaa.com.au Website: www.aaaa.com.au

EDITOR Allan Edwards

EDITORIAL Tel 61 3 9372 9125

PRODUCTION MANAGER Brigid Fraser, Tel 61 3 9505 0121

Official publication of the AAAA

ADVERTISING Tel 61 3 9545 3333

PUBLISHER Cameron McLachlan

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

AAAA NEWS

A FRESH NEW LOOK FOR A MODERN AAAA You may have noticed a fresh front cover for the Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine this month We’d like to introduce you to the new AAAA logo and branding colours. We hope you like them!

of who we are today; a modern, agile, representative organisation, strengthened by our integrity, capability and reputation.

The previous logo was an updated version of AAAA’s original logo created in 1980. It was a smart design for its time, incorporating the four As into a circular wheel design, with the Australia outline representing our national footprint. It became synonymous with our industry role and values.

Be assured, our branding update changes nothing in relation to our structure or role as the only independent, national, memberowned organisation representing the Australian automotive industry.

As time has marched on, the AAAA has grown and evolved as an organisation.

The world today is more complex, nuanced and fast paced, and as an organisation we have to continually adapt to ensure we have the strength, knowledge and resources to effectively represent our members and the broader industry.

The AAAA has a proud history, and our new logo becomes a proud new representation

Over the coming months you will continue to see additional changes to our publications and our digital platforms as we further tweak and improve member value and services.

We look forward to proudly displaying our new logo around Australia and overseas and continuing to provide the Australian automotive industry the support you deserve.

As your industry body, we are here for you, so if you need assistance, want to offer feedback or would like to see us improve in any area, please contact us on 03 9545 3333 or by email at info@aaaa.com.au

GRAHAM SCUDAMORE-SMITH Chairman 4

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine October 2019

STUART CHARITY Chief Executive Officer

AAAA NEWS

NEW MEMBERS

CALENDAR 2019

Aon Risk Services Level 32, 201 Kent Street SYDNEY NSW 2000 Ph: 02 9253 7029 E: steve.jones4@aon.com

Revolution Power Australia Unit 9, 17 Rivergate Place MURARRIE QLD 4172 Ph: 0411 238 606 E: david@rpoweraust.com.au

Avis Business Consultancy 127 Shakespeare Crescent FRASER ACT 2615 Ph: 0414 535 266 E: russ@avisconsultancy.com.au

Rugged Brake Systems 5 Torres Crescent NORTH LAKES QLD 4509 Ph: 07 3495 8068 E: randolph@ruggedbrakes.com.au

Boyce’s Automotive Data Pty Ltd Level 2, Suite 15, 110 Botany Road ALEXANDRIA NSW 2015 Ph: 02 9319 7484 E: accounts@boyce.com.au

Shift Automotive Bundaberg 1 Turner Street BUNDABERG QLD 4670 Ph: 07 4196 0730 E: shiftautomotive@outlook.com

Brad’s Automotive C/- Freedom Service Station, Shaw Rd WOOLOOWIN QLD 4030 Ph: 07 3857 5966 E: bradsautomotive@outlook.com.au

Synolex No. 605, Tandis Centre, Tajrish Square SHEMIRAN - TEHRAN 1989818657 Iran, Islamic Republic Of Ph: 21 22727080 E: r.nassajian@synolexoil.com

Coles Motors 31 Georgina Crescent PALMERSTON NT 0830 Ph: 08 8931 2663 E: peterkerry@bigpond.com

V-Mech Automotive 21 Elm Court MORAYFIELD QLD 4504 E: scott_vanderzalm@hotmail.com

FORTEC Co. Ltd 4-5-23 Fusa Heiwadai ABIKO CITY, CHIBA PREFECTURE 270-1108 Japan Ph: 04 7189 4117 E: fortec@jcom.home.ne.jp

Ultra Tune Adelaide City 300 Waymouth Street ADELAIDE SA 5000 Ph: 8212 5591 E: adelaidecity@ultratune.com.au

Invenio Pty Ltd Level 4, 37-41 Prospect Street BOX HILL VIC 3128 Ph: 03 9896 8888 E: asad@invenio.com.au

Ultra Tune Albion Park Unit 4, 29-31 Durgadin Drive ALBION PARK NSW 2527 Ph: 4256 0455 E: albionpark@ultratune.com.au

Macca’s Auto Electrical Service 72 Bourke Street DUBBO NSW 2830 Ph: 02 6881 8599 E:maccasae1@westnet.com.au

Ultra Tune Altona 86 Millers Road ALTONA NORTH VIC 3025 Ph: 9314 4033 E: altona@ultratune.com.au

McAlpin & Maurer PL 48A Crescent Avenue TAREE NSW 2430 Ph: 02 6552 6600 E: admin@mmautoelectrics.com

Ultra Tune Arana Hills 17 Patricks Road ARANA HILLS QLD 4054 Ph: 3851 2045 E: aranahills@ultratune.com.au

Motorised Muscle PO Box 56 DECEPTION BAY QLD 4508 Ph: 0450 566 440 E: malcolm.hart@motorisedmuscle.com.au

Ultra Tune Argenton 503 Lake Road ARGENTON NSW 2284 Ph: 4950 8899 E: argenton@ultratune.com.au

Natrad Rockingham 12 Cort Way ROCKINGHAM WA 6168 Ph: 08 9468 8447 E: rockyrads@aapt.net.au

Ultra Tune Arndell Park Unit 22, 14 Holbeche Road ARNDELL PARK NSW 2148 Ph: 9671 5777 E: arndellpark@ultratune.com.au

Redback Manufacturing 70 / 84 Miller Street EPPING VIC 3076 Ph: 0488 770 537 E: miket@swd.com.au

Ultra Tune Artarmon 43 Whiting Street ARTARMON NSW 2064 Ph: 9437 3469 E: artarmon@ultratune.com.au

Repco Authorised Service Kwinana Beach Unit 7 / 111 Mandurah Road KWINANA BEACH WA 6167 Ph: 0405 811 618 E: info@mvautoservicerepair.com.au

Ultra Tune Ashgrove 161 Waterworks Road ASHGROVE QLD 4060 Ph: 3366 0099 E: ashgrove@ultratune.com.au

AAPEX Sands Expo, Las Vegas, NV 5 - 7 November 2019 www.aapexshow.com

SEMA Las Vegas Convention Center 5 – 8 November 2019 www.semashow.com

Automechanika Shanghai National Exhibition & Convention Center, Puxi, Shanghai 3 – 6 December 2019 www.automechanika.messefrankfurt.com

Performance Racing Industry Trade Show Indiana Convention Center, Indianapolis, Indiana 12 – 14 December 2019 www.performanceracing.com

2020 Taipei AMPA Teipei Nangang Exhibitor Center 15 – 18 April 2020 www.taipeiampa.com.tw/

Automechanika Dubai Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre 7 - 9 June 2020 www.automechanika.messefrankfurt.com

Autocare 2020 Brisbane Exhibition & Conventions Centre 19 – 20 June 2020 www.autocare.org.au

AAAA BOARD OF DIRECTORS CHAIRMAN Graham Scudamore-Smith (QLD) Fulcrum Suspensions Ph: 07 3892 9000

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

Stuart Charity Chief Executive Officer

Wayne Bryant (VIC), Repco Ph: 03 9566 5223

DEPUTY CHAIRMAN Mark Pedder (VIC) Pedders Suspension Ph: 03 9706 3500

SECRETARY Guy Nicholls (VIC) Repco Ph: 03 9566 5444

DIRECTOR Adam Pay (NSW) Kmart Tyre & Auto Service Ph: 02 9680 6500

COMMITTEE Nikki Gerling (VIC), Robert Bosch (Australia) Pty Ltd Craig Magill (VIC), Burson Automotive Pty Ltd Ph: 03 9541 3919 Ph: 03 9914 5555 Janelle Gonzalez (NSW), Blue Toro Ph: 1300 258 386

Darren Robinson (VIC), HELLA Australia Ph: 03 9581 9407

Graham Scudamore-Smith Chairman

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine October 2019

5

AAAA NEWS

NEW MEMBERS Ultra Tune Ashmore BP Workshop, 2 Central Park Ave ASHMORE QLD 4214 Ph: 5539 3663 E: ashmore@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Bundaberg 8 Lillian Crescent BUNDABERG QLD 4670 Ph: 4153 3077 E: bundaberg@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Coolum Unit 1, 92 Link Crescent COOLUM BEACH QLD 4573 Ph: 5351 1200 E: coolum@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Ballarat 210 Mair Steet BALLARAT VIC 3350 Ph: 5332 8055 E: ballarat@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Burleigh Heads 14/ 88-89 Lower West Burleigh Rd BURLEIGH HEADS QLD 4220 Ph: 5576 4455 E: burleighheads@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Corio 420 Princess Highway CORIO VIC 3214 Ph: 5275 7077 E: corio@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Bankstown Cnr Brandon Avenue & Chapel Road BANKSTOWN NSW 2200 Ph: 9707 4677 E: bankstown@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Cairns 55 Mulgrave Road PARRAMATTA PARK QLD 4870 Ph: 4051 9111 E: cairns@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Batemans Bay 1/12 Cranbrook Road BATEMANS BAY NSW 2536 Ph: 4425 0111 E: batemansbay@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Corrimal Unit 1, 438 Princes Highway CORRIMAL NSW 2518 Ph: 4285 2224 E: corrimal@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Caloundra 72 Caloundra Road CALOUNDRA QLD 4551 Ph: 5499 6488 E: caloundra@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Bayswater Factory 5, 200 Canterbury Road BAYSWATER VIC 3153 Ph: 9729 0499 E: bayswater@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Campbelltown Corner Blaxland Road & Rose St CAMPBELLTOWN NSW 2560 Ph: 4628 2744 E: campbelltown@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Cranbourne 183-187 Sladen Street CRANBOURNE VIC 3977 Ph: 5917 2894 E: cranbourne@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Beenleigh 131 George Street BEENLEIGH QLD 4207 Ph: 3807 8133 E: beenleigh@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Campbelltown (SA) 617 Lower North East Road CAMPBELLTOWN SA 5074 Ph: 8365 2899 E: campbelltown@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Belmont 135 Great Eastern Highway BELMONT WA 6104 Ph: 9479 4499 E: belmont@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Canning Vale Unit 1, 87 Catalano Circuit CANNING VALE WA 6155 Ph: 9456 5050 E: canningvale@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Bentley Shop 2, 164 Albany Highway BENTLEY WA 6102 Ph: 9472 5388 E: bentley@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Cannington 2/ 1332 Albany Highway CANNINGTON WA 6107 Ph: 9350 6788 E: cannington@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Bexley 306-312 Forest Road BEXLEY NSW 2207 Ph: 8065 3561 E: bexley@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Capalaba Unit 1, 42 Smith Street CAPALABA QLD 4157 Ph: 3245 6833 E: capalaba@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Bibra Lake Unit 5, 28 Salpietro Street BIBRA LAKE WA 6163 Ph: 9434 9177 E: bibralake@ultratune.com.au Ultra Tune Blacktown Unit 1, 136-138 Sunnyholt Road BLACKTOWN NSW 2148 Ph: 9622 2641 E: blacktown@ultratune.com.au Ultra Tune Blakehurst 851 King Georges Road BLAKEHURST NSW 2221 Ph: 9547 0001 E: blakehurst@ultratune.com.au Ultra Tune Booval 160 Brisbane Road BOOVAL QLD 4304 Ph: 3282 0011 E: booval@ultratune.com.au Ultra Tune Box Hill 484 Station Street BOX HILL VIC 3128 Ph: 9899 6977 E: boxhill@ultratune.com.au Ultra Tune Brandon Park Corner Ferntree Gully & Springvale Roads GLEN WAVERLEY VIC 3150 Ph: 9562 1022 E: brandonpark@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Carlisle 48 Raleigh Street CARLISLE WA 6101 Ph: 9361 1244 E: carlisle@ultratune.com.au Ultra Tune Caroline Springs 1/ 81 Elgar Road DERRIMUT VIC 3030 Ph: 8390 6611 E: carolinesprings@ultratune.com.au Ultra Tune Castle Hill 4/27 Victoria Avenue CASTLE HILL NSW 2154 Ph: 9894 1133 E: castlehill@ultratune.com.au Ultra Tune Casuarina Casuarina Square, 247 Trower Road CASUARINA NT 0810 Ph: 8945 2122 E: casuarina@ultratune.com.au Ultra Tune Cessnock 19 Charlton Street CESSNOCK NSW 2325 Ph: 4990 3828 E: cessnock@ultratune.com.au Ultra Tune Chadstone 612 Neerim Road HUGHESDALE VIC 3166 Ph: 9569 1119 E: chadstone@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Bribie Island Unit 1, 183 First Avenue BONGAREE QLD 4507 Ph: 3410 1100 E: bribieisland@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Cheltenham 341 Reserve Road CHELTENHAM VIC 3192 Ph: 9585 5159 E: cheltenham@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Brisbane Airport 3 Daintree Road BRISBANE AIRPORT QLD 4008 Ph: 3119 2564 E: brisbaneairport@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Christies Beach 134 Beach Road CHRISTIES BEACH SA 5165 Ph: 8326 5800 E: christiesbeach@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Browns Plains Unit 1, 101 Grand Plaza Drive BROWNS PLAINS QLD 4118 Ph: 3809 4444 E: brownsplains@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Claremont 251 Stirling Highway CLAREMONT WA 6010 Ph: 9385 2100 E: claremont@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Bulleen Factory 2, 28 Manningham Rd West BULLEEN VIC 3105 Ph: 9850 4100 E: bulleen@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Clayton 1362 Centre Road CLAYTON VIC 3168 Ph: 9545 6066 E: clayton@ultratune.com.au

6

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine October 2019

Ultra Tune Crows Nest 8 Alexander Street CROWS NEST NSW 2065 Ph: 9460 7288 E: crowsnest@ultratune.com.au Ultra Tune Currimundi 693 Nicklin Way CURRIMUNDI QLD 4551 Ph: 5437 6533 E: currimundi@ultratune.com.au Ultra Tune Currumbin Unit 3, 59 Currumbin Creek Road CURRUMBIN QLD 4223 Ph: 5534 4400 E: currumbin@ultratune.com.au Ultra Tune Dandenong Cnr Foster Street & Cheltenham Road DANDENONG VIC 3175 Ph: 9791 2000 E: dandenong@ultratune.com.au Ultra Tune Diamond Valley Cnr Sherbourne & Mayona Rds GREENSBOROUGH VIC 3088 Ph: 9432 1333 E: diamondvalley@ultratune.com.au Ultra Tune Drummoyne 126-128 Victoria Road DRUMMOYNE NSW 2047 Ph: 9819 6033 E: drummoyne@ultratune.com.au Ultra Tune Dural Unit 2, 827 Old Northern Road DURAL NSW 2158 Ph: 9653 9295 E: dural@ultratune.com.au Ultra Tune East Bentleigh 276-280 Poath Road EAST BENTLEIGH VIC 3165 Ph: 9570 1944 E: eastbentleigh@ultratune.com.au Ultra Tune East Maitland 59 Turton Street METFORD NSW 2323 Ph: 4934 2144 E: greenhills@ultratune.com.au Ultra Tune East Melbourne 151 Victoria Parade FITZROY VIC 3065 Ph: 9416 1123 E: eastmelbourn@ultratune.com.au Ultra Tune Edmonton 1/ 1 Hargraves Street EDMONTON QLD 4870 Ph: 4040 3000 E: edmonton@ultratune.com.au Ultra Tune Eight Mile Plains 2494 Logan Road EIGHT MILE PLAINS QLD 4113 Ph: 3344 2721 E: eightmileplains@ultratune.com.au Ultra Tune Ellenbrook 1/ 10 Comserve Loop ELLENBROOK WA 6069 Ph: 9297 2022 E: ellenbrook@ultratune.com.au Ultra Tune Emerald Lot 7, Old Sheepyard Road EMERALD QLD 4720 Ph: 4987 6634 E: emerald@ultratune.com.au

AAAA NEWS

NEW MEMBERS Ultra Tune Engadine Unit 4, 1 Mianga Road ENGADINE NSW 2233 Ph: 9520 8804 E: engadine@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Glen Waverley Corner Waverley & Aristoc Roads GLEN WAVERLEY VIC 3150 Ph: 9561 5044 E: glenwaverley@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Kangaroo Flat 19 Phillips Drive KANGAROO FLAT VIC 3555 Ph: 5447 4777 E: kangarooflat@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Epping 539 High Street EPPING VIC 3076 Ph: 8405 3699 E: epping@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Glenelg 155 Brighton Road GLENELG SA 5045 Ph: 8376 1522 E: glenelg@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Kawana Waters Unit 1, 22 Tandem Avenue WARANA QLD 4575 Ph: 5437 8357 E: kawana@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Erina Unit 4, 14 Barralong Road ERINA NSW 2250 Ph: 4367 7101 E: erina@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Golden Grove The Grove Shopping Centre, Helicon Drive GOLDEN GROVE SA 5125 Ph: 8289 4455 E: goldengrove@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Kempsey 7 John Street KEMPSEY NSW 2440 Ph: 5508 9830 E: kempsey@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Essendon 107 Keilor Road ESSENDON VIC 3040 Ph: 9374 1808 E: essendon@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Gosford 338 Mann Street GOSFORD NSW 2250 Ph: 4324 1477 E: gosford@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Kenwick 4/ 1787 Albany Highway KENWICK WA 6107 Ph: 9493 2411 E: kenwick@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Goulburn 338 Mann St (Pacific Highway) GOULBURN NSW 2580 Ph: 4822 2302 E: goulburn@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Keperra Tenancy 1, Block I, Great Western Super Centre KEPERRA QLD 4054 Ph: 3351 7855 E: keperra@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Greensborough 140-146 Main Street GREENSBOROUGH VIC 3088 Ph: 9432 3848 E: greensborough@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Kew 780 High Street KEW VIC 3101 Ph: 9859 5672 E: kew@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Fitzroy 18-22 Johnston Street FITZROY VIC 3065 Ph: 9415 8455 E: fitzroy@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Gympie Unit 1, 36 Edwin Campion Drive GYMPIE QLD 4570 Ph: 5482 7633 E: gympie@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Killara 494 Pacific Highway KILLARA NSW 2071 Ph: 9416 8355 E: killara@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Footscray West 479 Barkly Street WEST FOOTSCRAY VIC 3012 Ph: 9659 0007 E: footscray@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Harbour Town 233 Brisbane Road LABRADOR QLD 4215 Ph: 5537 6121 E: harbourtown@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Kingaroy Unit 1, 10 Kingaroy Street KINGAROY QLD 4610 Ph: 4162 7436 E: kingaroy@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Fortitude Valley 5/8 Leopold Street NEWSTEAD QLD 4006 Ph: 3216 1022 E: fortitudeval@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Hawthorn 9 Mayston Street EAST HAWTHORN VIC 3123 Ph: 9813 4555 E: hawthorn@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Kingsway Kingsway Shopping Centre, Lot 158 MADELEY WA 6065 Ph: 9408 0711 E: kingsway@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Frankston 16 Wells Road SEAFORD VIC 3198 Ph: 9781 2377 E: frankston@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Hervey Bay Shed 4/5, 97 Old Maryborough Road PIALBA QLD 4655 Ph: 4124 5922 E: herveybay@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Kingsway (VIC) 36 Eastern Road SOUTH MELBOURNE VIC 3205 Ph: 9696 6060 E: kingswayvic@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Fyshwick 1/17 Wollongong Street FYSHWICK ACT 2609 Ph: 6239 3797 E: fyshwick@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Hervey Bay Urangan 71 Kent Street URANGAN QLD 4655 Ph: 4124 9308 E: urangan@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Kirrawee 531 Princes Highway KIRRAWEE NSW 2232 Ph: 9540 9068 E: kirrawee@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Gateshead 14 Oakdale Road GATESHEAD NSW 2290 Ph: 4920 9988 E: gateshead@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Highpoint 2B Williamson Road MARIBYRNONG VIC 3032 Ph: 9318 8588 E: highpoint@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Kogarah Cnr Princes Highway & President Avenue KOGARAH NSW 2217 Ph: 9553 1172 E: kogarah@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Gatton 88 Crescent Street GATTON QLD 4343 Ph: 5462 3044 E: gatton@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Hornsby 158 George Street HORNSBY NSW 2077 Ph: 9987 4177 E: hornsby@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Lakeside Joondalup 420 Joondalup Drive JOONDALUP WA 6027 Ph: 9300 9833 E: lakeside@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Gawler 11 Julian Terrace GAWLER SA 5118 Ph: 8523 1811 E: gawler@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Huntingdale 1352 North Road HUNTINGDALE VIC 3166 Ph: 9544 1233 E: huntingdale@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Lidcombe 23-29 Parramatta Road LIDCOMBE NSW 2141 Ph: 9737 0970 E: lidcombe@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Geebung Cnr Bilsen & Robinson Roads GEEBUNG QLD 4034 Ph: 3865 7006 E: geebung@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Ingleburn Unit 16, 79 Williamson Road INGLEBURN NSW 2567 Ph: 9618 3806 E: ingleburn@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Lilydale 24A John Street LILYDALE VIC 3140 Ph: 9735 5665 E: lilydale@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Geelong 140 Fyans Road GEELONG VIC 3220 Ph: 5222 4344 E: geelong@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Ipswich 67 Brisbane Road IPSWICH QLD 4305 Ph: 3812 8313 E: ipswich@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Liverpool 2/ 381 Macquarie Street LIVERPOOL NSW 2170 Ph: 9601 4011 E: liverpool@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Geraldton Unit 2, 179 North West Coastal Hway GERALDTON WA 6530 Ph: 9921 1899 E: geraldton@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Ipswich Riverlink Ipswich Riverlink Shopping Centre NORTH IPSWICH QLD 4305 Ph: 3202 1500 E: ipswichriverlink@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune MacGregor 547 Kessels Road MACGREGOR QLD 4109 Ph: 3849 5266 E: macgregor@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Gladstone Unit 2, 36 Chapple Street GLADSTONE QLD 4680 Ph: 4978 4339 E: gladstone@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Jesmond Unit 3, 147 Newcastle Road WALLSEND NSW 2287 Ph: 4950 1344 E: jesmond@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Mackay 20 Peel Street MACKAY QLD 4740 Ph: 4953 1300 E: mackay@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Fairfield Unit A5, 303 Horsley Drive FAIRFIELD NSW 2165 Ph: 9726 5178 E: fairfield1@ultratune.com.au Ultra Tune Ferntree Gully Cnr Burwood Highway & Fitzgerald Street FERNTREE GULLY VIC 3156 Ph: 9758 5140 E: ferntreegull@ultratune.com.au

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine October 2019

7

AAAA NEWS

NEW MEMBERS Ultra Tune Malaga Unit 1 & 2, 289 Camboon Road MALAGA WA 6090 Ph: 9248 3722 E: malaga@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Moorabbin Airport 290 Warragul Road CHELTENHAM VIC 3192 Ph: 9585 3106 E: moorabbin@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune North Melbourne 255 Macaulay Road NORTH MELBOURNE VIC 3051 Ph: 9329 6191 E: northmelbourne@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Malvern East 290 Waverley Road MALVERN EAST VIC 3145 Ph: 9572 1616 E: malverneast@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Morayfield Unit 120, 6-12 Dickson Road MORAYFIELD QLD 4506 Ph: 5428 1077 E: morayfield@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune North Parramatta 2 By Street NORTH PARRAMATTA NSW 2150 Ph: 9630 1010 E: northparramatta@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Mandurah 3/22 Galbraith Loop ERSKINE WA 6210 Ph: 9582 8990 E: mandurah@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Morisset 6/ 50 Alliance Avenue MORISSET NSW 2264 Ph: 4973 3354 E: morisset@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Marion 754 Marion Road MARION SA 5046 Ph: 8298 4567 E: marion@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Morley 22 Rudloc Road MORLEY WA 6062 Ph: 9275 2555 E: morley@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune North Ryde (At Big W) Macquarie Centre, Waterloo Road NORTH RYDE NSW 2113 Ph: 9888 5046 E: northryde@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Maroochydore The Beach Road Centre, 17-19 Beach Road MAROOCHYDORE QLD 4558 Ph: 5443 4566 E: maroochydore@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Morningside Cnr Wynnum & Junction Roads MORNINGSIDE QLD 4170 Ph: 3217 9853 E: morningside@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Marsden 2/653 Kingston Road LOGANLEA QLD 4131 Ph: 3805 6294 E: marsden@ultratune.com.au Ultra Tune Maryborough 51 Saltwater Creek Road MARYBOROUGH QLD 4650 Ph: 4121 0655 E: maryborough@ultratune.com.au Ultra Tune Mascot 840 Botany Road MASCOT NSW 2020 Ph: 9667 4868 E: mascot@ultratune.com.au Ultra Tune McKinnon Cnr North & Koornang Roads ORMOND VIC 3204 Ph: 9578 2400 E: mckinnon@ultratune.com.au Ultra Tune Melrose Park 945 South Road MELROSE PARK SA 5039 Ph: 8293 4880 E: melrose@ultratune.com.au Ultra Tune Melton 2/4 Norton Drive MELTON VIC 3337 Ph: 8088 0480 E: melton@ultratune.com.au Ultra Tune Menai Unit 2, 788-798 Old Illawarra Road MENAI NSW 2234 Ph: 9532 0555 E: menai1@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Mornington 7 Pentecost Street MORNINGTON VIC 3931 Ph: 5975 5111 E: mornington@ultratune.com.au Ultra Tune Morwell 2/ 2 Vestan Drive MORWELL VIC 3840 Ph: 5134 4026 E: morwell@ultratune.com.au Ultra Tune Mount Barker Unit 2/1 Burnett Way TOTNESS SA 5250 Ph: 8398 4060 E: mountbarker@ultratune.com.au Ultra Tune Mount Druitt Unit 2, 10 Luxford Road MOUNT DRUITT NSW 2770 Ph: 9832 9911 E: mountdruitt@ultratune.com.au Ultra Tune Munno Para 600 Main North Road SMITHFIELD SA 5114 Ph: 8284 2200 E: munnopara@ultratune.com.au Ultra Tune Myaree 2/ 93 Norma Road MYAREE WA 6154 Ph: 9330 2221 E: myaree@ultratune.com.au Ultra Tune Nambour 704 Bli Bli Road NAMBOUR QLD 4560 Ph: 5441 5212 E: nambour@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Northcote Corner High & Westgarth Streets NORTHCOTE VIC 3070 Ph: 9849 0296 E: northcote@ultratune.com.au Ultra Tune Nowra Shop 7, 59 East Street NOWRA NSW 2541 Ph: 4421 3141 E: nowra@ultratune.com.au Ultra Tune Paget 13 John Vella Drive PAGET QLD 4740 Ph: 4952 5710 E: paget@ultratune.com.au Ultra Tune Palmerston 3 Maluka Street GUNN NT 0832 Ph: 8931 3411 E: palmerston@ultratune.com.au Ultra Tune Parafield 1461 Main North Road SALISBURY EAST SA 5109 Ph: 8281 2649 E: parafield@ultratune.com.au Ultra Tune Parkes 8 Bogan Street (Newell Highway) PARKES NSW 2870 Ph: 6862 1733 E: parkes@ultratune.com.au Ultra Tune Parramatta Unit 6, 1 River Road West PARRAMATTA NSW 2150 Ph: 9633 2288 E: parramatta@ultratune.com.au Ultra Tune Peakhurst 65 Boundary Road MORTDALE NSW 2223 Ph: 9579 3888 E: peakhurst@ultratune.com.au Ultra Tune Penrith Unit 4, 160 Station Street PENRITH NSW 2750 Ph: 4722 8204 E: penrith@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Mentone 53 Balcombe Road MENTONE VIC 3194 Ph: 9583 0551 E: mentone@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Narellan Shop B5, Narellan Town Centre, 326 Camden Valley Way NARELLAN NSW 2567 Ph: 4647 0746 E: narellan@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Mermaid Beach 3 Northview Street MERMAID BEACH QLD 4218 Ph: 5578 5666 E: mermaidbeach@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Nerang 2/ 86 Spencer Street NERANG QLD 4211 Ph: 5596 7345 E: nerang@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Port Adelaide 221 Commericial Road POINT ADELAIDE SA 5015 Ph: 8241 0033 E: portadelaide@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Midland 30 Great Northern Highway MIDLAND WA 6056 Ph: 9250 1177 E: midland@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Newcastle West 34 Throsby Street WICKHAM NSW 2293 Ph: 4969 3166 E: newcastle@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Port Kennedy Unit 1, 22 Fielden Way PORT KENNEDY WA 6172 Ph: 9524 6544 E: portkennedy@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Mill Park 377 Plenty Road MILL PARK VIC 3082 Ph: 9133 6273 E: millpark@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Newtown 242-244 Enmore Road NEWTOWN NSW 2042 Ph: 9517 2600 E: newtown@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Port Melbourne 459 Graham Street PORT MELBOURNE VIC 3207 Ph: 9646 8333 E: portmelbourne@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Mirrabooka Corner Yirrigan Street & Northwood Avenue MIRRABOOKA WA 6061 Ph: 9344 5055 E: mirrabooka@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Noosaville 3/ 5 Lionel Donovan Drive NOOSAVILLE QLD 4566 Ph: 5474 4665 E: noosaville@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Prahran 269 High Street PRAHRAN VIC 3181 Ph: 9510 3573 E: prahran@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune North Lakes Unit 1, 29 Flinders Parade (North Lakes Business Park) NORTH LAKES QLD 4509 Ph: 3491 8222 E: northlakes@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Preston 62A Albert Street PRESTON VIC 3072 Ph: 9416 9766 E: preston@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Modbury 936 North East Road MODBURY SA 5092 Ph: 8265 4544 E: modbury@ultratune.com.au

8

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine October 2019

Ultra Tune Phillip 166 Melrose Drive PHILLIP ACT 2606 Ph: 6282 2935 E: phillip@ultratune.com.au

AAAA NEWS

NEW MEMBERS Ultra Tune Prospect 240 Main North Road PROSPECT SA 5082 Ph: 8269 1277 E: prospect@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Southport Unit 12, 20 Ferrey Road SOUTHPORT QLD 4215 Ph: 5591 2133 E: southport@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Tuggerah Unit 2, 42-44 Gavenlock Road TUGGERAH NSW 2259 Ph: 4353 0488 E: tuggerah@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Redbank Shop FS6, Redback Plaza REDBANK QLD 4301 Ph: 3143 4462 E: redbank@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune St Marys Unit 2, 2-12 Gallipoli Street ST MARYS NSW 2760 Ph: 9623 4385 E: stmarys@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Tuggeranong Unit 4, 184-192 Scollay Street TUGGERANONG ACT 2900 Ph: 6293 4393 E: tuggeranong@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Ringwood 30A Maroondah Highway RINGWOOD VIC 3134 Ph: 9870 0376 E: ringwood@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune St Peters 149 Payneham Road ST PETERS SA 5069 Ph: 8362 2488 E: stpeters@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Tweed Heads South 3/ 14 Machinery Drive TWEED HEADS SOUTH NSW 2486 Ph: 5524 6100 E: tweedheads@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Rockdale 427 Princes Highway ROCKDALE NSW 2216 Ph: 9597 5940 E: rockdale@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Stafford 68 Webster Road STAFFORD QLD 4053 Ph: 3352 5099 E: stafford@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Unley 110 Unley Road UNLEY SA 5061 Ph: 8271 5476 E: unley@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Rockhampton Corner Musgrave & Elphinstone Streets ROCKHAMPTON QLD 4700 Ph: 4922 5866 E: rockhampton@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Strathpine Unit 2, 12 Dixon Street STRATHPINE QLD 4500 Ph: 3205 5311 E: strathpine@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Victor Harbor 167 Hindmarsh Road VICTOR HARBOR SA 5152 Ph: 8552 6335 E: victorharbor@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Subiaco 123 Thomas Street SUBIACO WA 6008 Ph: 6380 1304 E: subiaco@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Wagga Wagga 42 Pearson Street WAGGA WAGGA NSW 2650 Ph: 6925 3188 E: waggawagga@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Summer Hill 70 Carlton Crescent SUMMER HILL NSW 2130 Ph: 9799 7475 E: ashfield@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Warrandyte 482 Warrandyte-Ringwood Road RINGWOOD VIC 3134 Ph: 9844 0008 E: warrandyte@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Sunbury 2/ 65 Horne Street SUNBURY VIC 3429 Ph: 9740 9240 E: sunbury@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Watergardens Showroom 7/ 460 Melton Highway TAYLORS LAKES VIC 3038 Ph: 9449 8102 E: watergardens@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Sunshine 495B Ballarat Road SUNSHINE VIC 3020 Ph: 9311 9655 E: sunshine@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Whitfords Shop 99A, Big W, Whitfords City Shopping Centre HILLARYS WA 6025 Ph: 9307 6366 E: whitfords@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Rockingham 3/ 6 Acute Court ROCKINGHAM WA 6168 Ph: 9592 2000 E: rockingham@ultratune.com.au Ultra Tune Rouse Hill Unit 6, 2 Resolution Place ROUSE HILL NSW 2155 Ph: 9629 4069 E: rousehill@ultratune.com.au Ultra Tune Roxburgh Park Unit 1, 2-10 Reservoir Drive COOLAROO VIC 3048 Ph: 9308 5455 E: roxburghpark@ultratune.com.au Ultra Tune Salisbury 2/162 Commercial Road SALISBURY SA 5108 Ph: 8327 4448 E: salisbury@ultratune.com.au Ultra Tune Sandgate 114 Connaught Street SANDGATE QLD 4017 Ph: 3269 9755 E: sandgate@ultratune.com.au Ultra Tune Seaford Unit 4, 125 Griffith Drive SEAFORD SA 5169 Ph: 8327 4448 E: seaford@ultratune.com.au Ultra Tune Seven Hills Seven Hills Shopping Centre, Shop 49, The Hills Crescent SEVEN HILLS NSW 2147 Ph: 9621 1566 E: sevenhills@ultratune.com.au Ultra Tune Shepparton 60 Benalla Road SHEPPARTON VIC 3630 Ph: 5822 4204 E: shepparton@ultratune.com.au Ultra Tune Slacks Creek 35 Kingston Road WOODRIDGE QLD 4114 Ph: 3290 1666 E: slackscreek@ultratune.com.au Ultra Tune Smithfield Corner Mount Millman Drive & Cattana Road SMITHFIELD QLD 4878 Ph: 4038 2900 E: smithfield@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Taren Point 1/ 138 Taren Point Road TAREN POINT NSW 2229 Ph: 9531 8500 E: tarenpoint@ultratune.com.au Ultra Tune Tarneit 4/ 409 Derrimut Road TARNEIT VIC 3029 Ph: 8742 2534 E: tarneit@ultratune.com.au Ultra Tune Thomastown 1/ 222 Settlement Road THOMASTOWN VIC 3074 Ph: 9465 3933 E: thomastown@ultratune.com.au Ultra Tune Toowoomba 10 Hill Street TOOWOOMBA QLD 4350 Ph: 4632 8611 E: toowoomba@ultratune.com.au Ultra Tune Toowoomba East 58A Mort Street TOOWOOMBA QLD 4350 Ph: 4632 3266 E: toowoombaeast@ultratune.com.au Ultra Tune Toronto 133-137 Carey Street TORONTO NSW 2283 Ph: 4959 8889 E: toronto@ultratune.com.au Ultra Tune Townsville City 44 Stanley Street TOWNSVILLE QLD 4810 Ph: 4771 3200 E: townsvillecity@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Smithfield (NSW) 729 Horsley Drive SMITHFIELD NSW 2164 Ph: 8798 6284 E: smithfieldnsw@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Traralgon 25 McMahon Street TRARALGON VIC 3844 Ph: 5174 5455 E: traralgon@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune South Fremantle 252 Hampton Road BEACONSFIELD WA 6162 Ph: 9336 5347 E: southfremantle@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Truganina Lot F, 451 Leakes Road TRUGANINA VIC 3029 Ph: 9978 0840 E: truganina@ultratune.com.au

Ultra Tune Willeri Drive 121 Collins Road WILLETTON WA 6155 Ph: 9259 1831 E: willeridrive@ultratune.com.au Ultra Tune Windsor Unit 1, 31 Brabyn Street WINDSOR NSW 2756 Ph: 4577 8833 E: windsor@ultratune.com.au Ultra Tune Windsor Unit 10, 104 Newmarket Road WINDSOR QLD 4030 Ph: 3861 10055 E: windsorqld@ultratune.com.au Ultra Tune Wodonga 1/ 197-199 Melbourne Road WODONGA VIC 3690 Ph: 6056 9599 E: wodonga@ultratune.com.au Ultra Tune Wollongong 459 Crown Street (West) WOLLONGONG NSW 2500 Ph: 4229 2099 E: wollongong@ultratune.com.au Ultra Tune Woodville 530 Torrens Road WOODVILLE NORTH SA 5012 Ph: 8345 5874 E: woodville@ultratune.com.au Ultra Tune Woolloongabba 22 Deshon Street WOOLLOONGABBA QLD 4102 Ph: 3393 0822 E: woolloongabba@ultratune.com.au Ultra Tune Wyndham Vale Corner Ballan & McGrath Roads WYNDHAM VALE VIC 3024 Ph: 9742 6462 E: wyndhamvale@ultratune.com.au Ultra Tune Yamanto Unit 5, 6 Astral Court FLINDERS VIEW QLD 4305 Ph: 3288 6644 E: yamanto@ultratune.com.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine October 2019

9

NEWS

CURB THE RAGE A road safety initiative by David Reynolds V8 Supercar driver David Reynolds, known as the ‘class clown’ in the Virgin Australia Supercars Championship, has announced he is swapping his larrikin antics for a more serious campaign: Curb The Rage.

The 34-year old has been working behind the scenes with his management company, Push Talent Management, to bring to life the new road safety initiative; a cause which he feels very passionate about.

INDUSTRY LEADERS AND EXPERTS ANNOUNCED FOR 2019 PRI SHOW EDUCATION PROGRAM Seminars scheduled for this year’s PRI will cover many topics, including sales and marketing Speakers and presenters taking part in this year’s Performance Racing Industry (PRI) Trade Show Education program represent a who’s who of US industry experts and top performers on the track, in the shop, and behind the businesses that specialise in race parts and services.

“Road usage in Australia is at an all-time high and that brings more people on to the roads and therefore increases road rage,” David said.

“In 2002, the Government’s Intergenerational Report forecast our national population would exceed 25 million in 2042. In 2007 that forecast was changed to 2024. We have now almost exceeded that figure in 2019.”

David’s mission is to bring awareness to the issue through Curb The Rage and explore the creation of anti-road rage campaigns aimed at reducing the number of abusive incidents on Australia’s roads.

“I think it’s time we brought awareness to the issue and help the community overcome this important challenge,” David said.

“In conjunction with key industry figures and with the help of corporate partners, I want to use my profile in motorsport to bring awareness to the issue.”

Curb The Rage is set to officially launch to the public on Monday the 4th of November, before the final Virgin Australia Supercars Pirtek Endurance round, the Penrite Oil Sandown 500 which will be held across the 8th to the 10th of November.

Push Talent Management would like to invite companies who might be interested in joining the campaign to get in contact with John Ruggiero on john@pushtalentmanagement.com.au or 0414 543 634.

10

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine October 2019

Attendees of the 2019 PRI Show, set for December 12–14 at the Indiana Convention Center in Indianapolis USA, will have more opportunities than ever to pick up valuable tips and takeaways during an expanded seminar lineup covering a wide range of topics – from sales and marketing strategies to finding and hiring qualified employees to best practices in race track operations and much more.

“The quality and quantity of educational programming offered at this year’s PRI Trade Show is nothing short of extraordinary,” PRI Editor, Dan Schechner, said.

“PRI Education has put together an incredible lineup of top-flight presenters and panelists in order to deliver unprecedented value for Show attendees and exhibitors. Regardless of the business or racing segment you’re involved in, we guarantee you’ll come out of our seminars more informed and better prepared for future success.”

With more to be announced in the coming months, speakers scheduled to participate in this year’s PRI Education program include: • Engineer and author David Vizard: With more than 30 automotive books and 4,000 magazine articles, David is one of the world’s most widely published automotive writers.

His technical seminar will offer insights and lessons from his 50 years of engine customisation.

• Lake Speed Jr. of Driven Racing Oil: Lake, a certified lubricant specialist, plans to discuss the latest evolutions in oils and fuels as they relate to direct injection engines, diesel engines, modern engines, and vintage engines.

• Darin Morgan of Reher-Morrison Racing

Engines: In his seminar on key advances in modern cylinder and port design, Darin will go in-depth on how efficiency has increased power over the years while uncovering the pitfalls associated with this technology.

• Jason Enders of RE Suspension and Gary Crooks of Port City Racecars: Jason and Gary will team up to present a seminar on bump stops and provide the necessary working knowledge to help teams better understand their race cars. Attendees will learn about the latest technology that short track asphalt racers are using to push the envelope.

• Jeanette DesJardins of Car Chix and Crank It Media will moderate an all-female panel that includes racing standouts Natalie Decker, Lea Ochs, and Sarah Burgess discussing opportunities for women in motorsports.

Attendees will hear about their challenges, triumphs and lessons learned, and better understand how to market to, engage with, and raise awareness among young women interested in pursuing motorsports as a career.

• NHRA Announcer Alan Reinhart: Alan will lead a roundtable featuring representatives from ARCA, NASA, IMCA, NMCA/NMRA, and other race sanctioning bodies discussing a range of topics at the forefront of motorsports today, such as controlling costs, technical specs, and rules enforcement.

This year’s PRI-sponsored seminars, which are presented free of charge for all registered Show attendees and exhibitors, will be broken out by tracks – Sales and Marketing, Business Operations, International, Opportunities in Racing, Sanctions and Tracks, and Technical Education.

More information on specific seminar times, dates and locations is available at www.prishow.com/education To register for the 2019 PRI Trade Show, secure hotel reservations and sign up for free PRI Education seminars, log on to www.prishow.com

NEWS

A NEW NAME IN THE AUTOMOTIVE AFTERMARKET Leading businesses are coming together to form NAPA Auto Parts GPC Asia Pacific is taking over 90 years of service excellence and specialist parts and creating a new name in the automotive aftermarket.

Best known as Ashdown-Ingram, Covs, Global Auto Spares and R&E Auto Parts, these iconic businesses say they are coming together to form NAPA Auto Parts; a new name in Australia and New Zealand, with the same team you trust.

knowledge, NAPA Auto Parts says it is taking service and stock availability to new heights.

Whilst Ashdown-Ingram, Covs, Global and R&E are all automotive specialist destinations, the four locations have a varying mix of automotive electrical, thermal and mechanical products available.

The transition to NAPA Auto Parts means greater access to an extended range of products to help meet the growing requirements of trade, industrial, fleet and mining specialists.

Under the NAPA Auto Parts banner, you can expect a comprehensive range of leading and home brands to cover your 4x4, braking, electrical, engine management, fleet, heavy duty, thermal and under body/bonnet needs.

With the combination of more products and brands on offer as well as decades of industry

To celebrate the new name, NAPA Auto Parts says it was thrilled to be the naming rights partner of

a Bathurst 1000 2019 Wildcard entry for NTT IndyCar series drivers Alexander Rossi and James Hinchcliffe.

NAPA Auto Parts says it has already taken the Australian West Coast by storm, opening five locations with more on the horizon. The NAPA blue and yellow will soon expand to the East Coast with at least three locations expected to open before the end of 2019.

Over the coming years, NAPA Auto Parts is expecting to have over 125 locations in Australia and New Zealand.

For more information, news and announcements, visit www.napaparts.com.au

70 YEARS OF ENGINE BEARING MANUFACTURE IN AUSTRALIA 2019 marks the 70th year of manufacture of precision engine bearings in the Northern Suburbs of Launceston, Tasmania ACL explains that at the beginning of the post war period, the Tasmanian Government was looking to transform the Tasmanian economy by encouraging the development of the manufacturing sector.

Repco at the time was looking to expand its bearing manufacturing operations and decided on Tasmania as the location for growth.

The original plant was constructed in 1948 and officially opened on 11 April 1949. This was timely with the development of the Australian automotive industry and the company became a key supplier to all domestic OEMs. As the industry grew, the company introduced a range of replacement bearings initially for the domestic aftermarket followed by supply to world markets. During this period the company acquired several small bearing manufacturers (including

Automotive Components Ltd, otherwise known as ACL) to ultimately become the only engine bearing manufacturer in Australia.

The Launceston operation was sold by Repco in 1986 and the Automotive Components Limited group was formed and the ACL brand was reborn.

Current ACL General Manager, Chris Brooks, is now in his 43rd year with the business after starting as a Marketing Cadet in 1977.

“The company has seen its fair share of change, highs and lows over the seventy years, however it has always maintained great resilience and an exceptional name for quality across the world,” Chris said.

“We are fortunate to have a long serving and highly skilled workforce. The ACL brand sits comfortably

on the world stage and has been exporting for over 55 years. We receive excellent support from our distributors and loyal customers.”

Today ACL says it produces one of the largest general aftermarket ranges in the world from its Launceston facilities through its Duraglide and Aluglide product as well as its “internationally lauded” ACL RACE Series Performance Engine Bearings range.

Following a change of ownership in 2014, the Launceston facility is part of a global network with ACL owned facilities in Mexico, Asia and the USA. “The company of today carries a fine legacy from the over 8,500 employees that have worked for the company across the 70 years. We have a rich and proud history and are well placed to serve our customers well into the future,” Chris said.

For more information visit www.acl.com.au or www.aclperformance.com.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine October 2019

11

NEWS

PEDDERS ADDS TO NEW TRIALS UNDERWAY For new 3D Printing Material and (AR) Mobile ITS TEAM App for the Auto Collision Industry With the appointment of a new Brand and Marketing Manager Pedders Suspension and Brakes has recruited David Montgomery to the role of Brand and Marketing Manager for the group.

David has a strong automotive background which includes marketing communication and product management roles with Nissan and Caltex Australia.

Pedders says David shares a passion for cars and all things automotive and his addition to the team will bring continuity for the brand’s marketing that will set Pedders up for a strong start to the 2020 marketing year.

“I am really looking forward to being a part of a fast growing company that is already a wellestablished brand in the Automotive Aftermarket space,” David said.

David joins the marketing team with more than 15 years of experience. His background includes experience in marketing communications, strategy development and product marketing.

David’s various roles have allowed him to succeed in his career in FMCG and the automotive space. Pedders says such experience will help David transition smoothly into his new position with Pedders Suspension and Brakes.

“I am particularly thrilled to have David join our marketing team,” Pedders Senior Executive Brand and Marketing, Adam Gillick, said.

“As Pedders Suspension and Brakes continues to experience rapid growth, I know his expertise and interest in cars will see us enhance our marketing opportunities in the automotive aftermarket space for the greater good of the brand.”

For more from Pedders, visit www.pedders.com.au 12

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine October 2019

The Swinburne University of Technology started testing its newly formulated 3D printing polypropylene-based material recently.

The world-first development is a collaboration with industry partner Tradiebot Industries and with coinvestment from the Innovative Manufacturing CRC (IMCRC), the material will be used in the automotive collision repair industry to 3D print replacement plastic bumper bar tabs and headlight lugs.

A mobile app is currently also being developed

by Tradiebot, using state of the art Augmented Reality (AR), that will enable collision repair technicians to perform quality control on repairs by overlaying an original CAD using the application via a smart phone, tablet or smart glasses.

The application will have the ability to scan broken plastic parts, generate a 3D model of the part and then enable the user to create, or select from a library, the required missing component.

This missing component will then be 3D printed using the new automotive compatible material.

The developed replacement parts will be stored in a digital library of pre-designed parts, ready for download and 3D printing.

The advanced plastic material is compatible with automotive grade injection moulded plastic and will increase the number of parts being repaired and reused during the collision repair process, rather than these parts being sent to landfill or waste, due to missing tabs and lugs.

When ready for industry use, the solution will offer technicians a path to up-skill through learning to repair these parts and designing new replacement components for parts that would have previously required a brand-new replacement.

The creation is the brainchild of Mario Dimovski, the Chief Executive Officer of Tradiebot, who started his career as a 16-year-old plastic repair technician and has been involved with automotive plastic repair for the past 28 years.

“The new 3D printing material and the mobile app development marks a significant step towards the utilisation of new digital tools, additive manufacturing/3D printing and advanced materials in the collision repair industry,” Mario said.

“Tradiebot has been leading the way in 3D printing innovations in the collision repair industry for the past four years and is very excited to bring to market such an innovative solution.”

The in-house formulated polypropylene composite material developed by Swinburne Materials Scientist Dr Mostafa Nikzad and his team, will

allow on demand replacement tabs to be printed and fuse welded by repair technicians on plastic car parts, enabling these broken parts to be reused.

Dr Nikzad and his team had to create a material with the right bonding properties, strength and toughness required to meet automotive quality standards, that also possesses the necessary characteristics to be 3D printed and all while guaranteeing the compatibility with automotive grade injection moulded plastics.

The material choices were restricted to Polypropylene based (PP) composites to enable direct welding onto bumpers or headlight bases, as most of these are made from PP based composites.

Dr Nikzad, who has been leading advanced material projects for the last 15 years, said that this is a ground-breaking development.

“The initial idea to develop the material and how best to provide access to it for the industry is really exciting. I like the idea of using a mobile scanning app and creating your own replacement parts for printing,” Dr Nikzad said.

“We are also now planning a second phase of this project that involves embedding self-healing capabilities into the material in a world-first.”

IMCRC functions as a catalyst in this research collaboration, co-investing in 3D printing and material innovation that creates opportunities not just for Tradiebot and the automotive collision repair industry but for Australia’s broader manufacturing sector.

“From day one Tradiebot and Swinburne University have been working hand-in-hand, embracing opportunities as well as challenges to drive progress and get the job done. Seeing them test new 3D printing materials that did not exist two years ago and explore digital technology to enhance the user experience is very rewarding,” IMCRC Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director, David Chuter, said.

Tradiebot aims to have the material and mobile application available to the market in early 2020 as the project moves into its final stage of commercialisation.

For more information, visit www.tradiebot.com

NEWS

MONROE SUPPORTS A VERY SPECIAL VARIETY BASH ENTRY Variety Bash car rallies are held annually as a fun way to raise money for children in need Monroe Australia has supported three decade veteran team member, Michael Kelly, on his very special South Australian Variety Bash car rally entry in 2019.

As Michael says, “Galahs is the best word to describe the characters of everyone who took part and the kids along the Variety Bash rally route loved it too.”

Sadly, Michael lost his wife Ann to pancreatic cancer in July. He met Ann at Monroe Australia and enjoyed a loving 33 year relationship together. In discussing how he could do something to help get over the terrible loss of his wife and best friend, Michael and a group of his friends registered to enter the 2019 South Australia Variety Bash.

Monroe provided sponsorship support to the Galahs in a Falcon SA Variety Bash Team and ensured that the suspension of the XF Falcon Ute was at optimum ride performance quality for this event with a set of Australian designed and manufactured Monroe Heavy Duty shock absorbers.

The Variety Bash car rallies are held across Australia each year as a fun way to raise money for children in need using low value older cars, many decorated in elaborately fun liveries to take part. Competitors collect donations prior to the event and during it from each town that they visit, while special fund raising events are also held along the journey.

Monroe Australia was delighted to join their loyal team member on his Variety Bash entry, which saw his trusty 1992 Ford XF Falcon Ute rolled out of the shed and fully worked over to complete the gruelling 4,875 kilometre, mainly dirt road, seven day charity event which was conducted in August this year.

Michael chose an apt team name, “Galahs in a Falcon”, which is in keeping with the lighthearted and fun nature of each Variety Bash.

Michael and his team of Galahs conducted meat raffles and sausage sizzles to increase the funds raised by being a part of this event, along with contributions from Monroe Australia and other generous sponsors, that resulted in an outstanding total amount raised of $22,130.

The 94 teams that took part in this year’s South Australian Variety Bash raised a staggering total of $1.94 million that finds its way directly to varied children’s charities across the state.

“I am very proud to be a part of the Monroe Australia team for more than 30 years now, so it is wonderful to have my employer aboard to help raise funds for Variety – Australia’s Childrens Charity. We have done a great thing to help Aussie kids and I’m already thinking about the next one,” Michael stated.

“We had an incredible time over the week and the Monroe Heavy Duty shocks didn’t miss a beat throughout the bash. After leaving Codan (SA) we drove as far north as Cameron’s Hill in Queensland and then continued on mainly dirt roads to Murray Bridge across seven wonderful days.

“I had to deal with overheating issues throughout the bash and had a breakdown enroute that we sorted out. The undercarriage of the car took a major beating, and amazingly the left rear shock absorber had two major dents in it but still worked

perfectly to the end – true Monroe Australian manufacturing quality right there!” Michael said.

“We are very pleased to have taken part in such a worthy and fun natured motoring event,” Monroe Marketing Manager, Brydon Tweddell, said.

“It was also great to support our team member Michael Kelly who has taken the initiative to do something very positive for others following such a major personal loss. The amount of money he and his team raised for children’s charities was incredible as was the result of the entire South Australian Variety Bash.”

For more from Monroe Australia, visit www.monroe.com.au

MACKAY RECOGNISED BY SUPERCHEAP AUTO

Mackay Consolidated Industries scoops 2019 quality award Mackay Consolidated Industries was awarded the 2019 category winner of Outstanding Safety and Product Quality Trade Partner as part of the Supercheap Auto Trade Partner Forum, Awards and Conference.

The award was presented to Mackay at the Star Casino on the Gold Coast and recognises Mackay’s outstanding product quality and Mackay’s performance for logistical safety.

Mackay says it is proud of this achievement, and that it is made more remarkable as Mackay has worked with Supercheap to introduce the new ‘Calibre – Manufactured By Mackay’ branded hoses over the past 12 months – Supercheap Auto’s stocked range of coolant hoses available across hundreds of stores in Australia and New Zealand.

For more from Mackay, visit www.mackayrubber.com.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine October 2019

13

NEWS

THE END OF THE COMMODORE? In this article, ACA Research looks at vehicle de-registrations and the impact they can have on the Australian aftermarket When we write about the Australian car parc, we often look at vehicle sales, focusing on the top brands, or new models being launched.

That gives us a good understanding of what we’re going to see more of on our roads, but from a workshop perspective, it’s also important to understand what you’re going to see less of in the future.

Looking at vehicle de-registrations can help workshops understand which models will become less common over the next 5-10 years, and plan their future equipment purchases, and training needs.

To place this in context, we know that the Australian car parc (passenger and light commercial) is growing, increasing by more than a million vehicles over the past four years. At an overall level, this has been driven by around 1.1m new vehicles being sold each year, against 700,000-800,000 being de-registered.

It is important to remember that de-registered doesn’t mean scrapped, and they may still be project cars, or only operated on private land,

Figure 1 - Source: VFACTS New Vehicle Sales 2015-2018, ABS Survey of Motor Vehicle Use 2015-2018

but they are ultimately unlikely to turn up in automotive workshops on any regular basis.

While these numbers are consistent at an overall level, we can see clear differences by brand.

Market leader Toyota sells around 200,000 vehicles a year, with around 130,000-140,000 de-registered, giving it net growth of around 70,000 vehicles per year. Similarly, Mazda, Hyundai and Volkswagen have all recorded strong growth numbers over the past four years, each growing total numbers on road by 50,00070,000 vehicles per year.

Looking at the declining brands, we again see some familiar logos. Over the four years from 2015 – 2018, only Holden and Ford in the top 10 have seen de-registrations consistently exceed new vehicle sales.

Duck under the hood however, and we can see that these two brands are performing quite differently. Holden’s de-registrations continue to grow, approaching 170,000 vehicles in 20172018, while Ford on the other hand is displaying a level of recovery.

Going deeper again, we can see that a substantial proportion of the decline can be traced back to two models.

The Holden Commodore and the Ford Falcon are both down by around 200,000 vehicles over the past four years, with consumers increasingly moving away from full-size sedans to SUVs and utes. Looking to the future, their presence in workshops is going to continue to fall, while on the flipside, the Ford Ranger is likely to keep growing, as it continues to provide a clear example of how Ford has adjusted their strategy to better meet the changing demands of the market.

Figure 2 - Source: VFACTS New Vehicle Sales 2015-2018,

ABS Survey of Motor Vehicle Use 2015-2018

14

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine October 2019

This information again highlights the importance of workshops monitoring changes in their local car parc. What might be the case for a workshop in Parramatta will not be the case for one in Wollongong, and understanding the local audience can help workshops be more strategic

Figure 3 - Source: ABS Survey of Motor Vehicle Use

2015-2018 when planning equipment purchases, training and development.

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

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

NEWS

NATRAD AUTOCARE WELCOMES CROWHURST MOTORS Crowhurst Motors has transformed into Australia’s newest Natrad AutoCare workshop Workshop owner and mechanic, Bevan Crowhurst, has seen many changes to the automotive industry and vehicle servicing needs since he started in the late 1960s.

Now, Bevan and his qualified technicians, Steven Tattis and Troy Featherstone, cover all aspects of mechanical repairs, logbook servicing, engine cooling, air conditioning and roadworthy inspections.

Handling modern vehicle repairs is becoming increasingly complex with system fault codes to chase and a myriad of parts to deal with.

Technicians need to be highly skilled and constantly learning to keep up with the technology.

It’s not surprising that many workshops could use some extra help to make the day-to-day running of their business more productive and efficient.

There’s also the various advertising and marketing activities to manage that are necessary to sustain any business that operates in a competitive environment.

So, how do you keep on top of it all? The solution is to work smarter, not harder, and for Crowhurst

Motors, a decision to partner with Natrad AutoCare was the answer.

Natrad AutoCare Operations Manager, Steven Jones, said he is delighted to welcome Crowhurst Motors into their growing family.

“For 35 years, Natrad has earned a reputation for specialist knowledge and quality workmanship in the automotive industry,” Steven said.

“Having a high-calibre business operator like Bevan and his experienced team join our group is a really good fit for our business.”

Located in Brisbane’s north-eastern suburbs, the Enoggera premises has undergone some changes both externally and internally as it has transformed into Australia’s newest Natrad AutoCare workshop. The bold new exterior colour scheme represents much more than just cosmetic changes.

“Becoming a Natrad AutoCare workshop impacts the business on multiple levels” Steven said.

“Our Franchisees receive a variety of enhancements to their workshop that operate

across the areas of shopfront, marketing, accounting, customer service and support.”

Natrad AutoCare says it offers powerful branding, marketing expertise and advanced business tools which are extremely cost effective when shared amongst the Franchise members. The business software platform is reportedly designed to streamline back-office functions in order to maximise the time available for mechanics and technicians to spend looking after customers and their vehicles.

If your workshop could benefit from a helping hand and a national brand, Natrad AutoCare asks you to contact it to explore all the advantages on offer when you partner your business with theirs.

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

INTRODUCING SERVICEMYCAR A brand new public website powered by Boyce’s Autolibrary There are over 19 million motor vehicles registered in Australia and every second, Google processes more than 63,000 searches.

As we all know, people do most things via the internet and car owners are no different. Boyce’s Automotive Data says this is where ServiceMyCar comes in to connect car owners to you.

Boyce’s Automotive Data explains it is a trusted and respected name in the Automotive Industry which has now expanded its services to include both the trade and public. As such, it is excited to introduce you to the new website www.servicemycar.com.au This public website helps car owners to find their local service centres and at the same time, help service centres to find new customers.

How will ServiceMyCar benefit both trade and public?

The public want a trusted source of information and quick answers. Service outlets want to maximise profits by saving time and not discounting to get a job.

With ServiceMyCar, car owners can reportedly

quickly get a Service Cost Guide and Task Breakdown before contacting their local mechanic directly (service centres are not locked into a fixed service price) – there is no middleman and from there it is easy to book a service.

Boyce’s says the public can be assured that it is a fair and realistic price and the workshop has the flexibility to work within that range, knowing it’s based on the manufacturer’s procedures.

Further, the information is powered by Boyce’s AutoLibrary (www.autolibrary.com.au), a technical software used by thousands of service centres nationwide, so the public can be assured of its accuracy.

ServiceMyCar is not just a workshop directory either, it is a dedicated website to meet all the needs of a car owner. Designed to be user friendly and easy to navigate, car owners can find insurance, batteries, car accessories and more.

They can also check for the car’s exact tyre size before purchasing – a free and handy feature to have.

ServiceMyCar states it takes no commission, there is no bidding for service work and no fixed

price service or repair work. Further workshops can upsell other service additions and it is simple for car owners to find your workshop and contact you.

Utilising what it calls a low annual directory fee, workshops keep 100 percent of sales and for a limited time, Boyce’s is offering a pre-launch price, so it is encouraging you to be quick to get the special price and be seen on www.servicemycar.com.au For more information, call Boyce’s on 02 9319 7484.

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine October 2019

17

NEWS

PARISH THE THOUGHT 75 years of Parish Engineering In 2019, Parish Engineering celebrates 75 years of business. When the company was established in Moorabbin, Victoria in 1944, World War II was still raging across Europe. But Parish Engineering’s connection with the war was more than incidental; it was contracted by the Australian government to supply the allies with vital munitions components.

Over the next four years the world changed dramatically. In 1945 the axis powers were defeated, in 1946 the Cold War began, and in 1948 the famous FX Holden was produced in Australia.

The post-war period was a golden-age for Australian manufacturing and Parish Engineering was an integral part of that boom; becoming a regional supplier of component parts to Holden and giants such as Ford, Toyota, Harvester Trucks, and Sutton Tools.

Parish Engineering has borne witness to amazing changes. It began in 1932 as a family-owned business, but the demands of the war saw it expand into a proprietary limited company in 1944 – growing from eight employees in 1940 to over 40 in 1946.

Having no children to inherit the company, in 1968 Bill Parish sold the company. Graeme Sinclair, who was employed by Parish as an Engineer in the 1970s, purchased the company in 1980 with a partner. When Graeme’s daughter Nicole joined the business as an Engineer in 2006, and Graeme’s business partner sold his shares in 2008, Parish Engineering once again became a family owned business.

Over its lifetime, Parish Engineering has seen a Depression, World War, a post-war boom, recessions, a decline in manufacturing, and more recently manufacturing’s resurgence.

The return of manufacturing With manufacturing employing almost a million people in Australia, rumours of its death have been greatly exaggerated suggests Parish Engineering Chief Executive Officer, Nicole Sinclair.

“When automotive manufacturers like Holden and Toyota closed up in 2017, it seemed to some like the last gasp of Australian manufacturing,” Nicole said.

“But the reality is that Australian manufacturing hasn’t died, it’s changed, as have global production chains. Today, manufacturing is returning to nations like Australia.”

With a resurgent manufacturing sector, Parish Engineering is expanding too, purchasing truck air brake fittings manufacturer, Longworth Engineering, in 2016. Parish Engineering’s growth will be based on investing heavily in staff and machines.

“We’ll look to the future with the same innovative spirit and enthusiasm that Graeme Sinclair and Bill Parish demonstrated over the past 75 years,” Nicole said.

“Australian manufacturing is world leading in aeronautics and medical technology. With government support in training, investment, R&D, and trade, Australian manufacturing can have an amazing future.”

For more from Parish Engineering, go to www.parishengineering.com.au

BURSON AUTO PARTS PLAYS ITS PART IN PROTECTING THE ENVIRONMENT Sustainability is important to both Burson Auto Parts and the Bapcor Group Australian trade supplier of automotive parts, tools and equipment, Burson Auto Parts, says it is playing its part to protect the environment through parent company Bapcor Limited’s partnership with Greenfleet.

Greenfleet is a leading environmental not for profit organisation that seeks to protect our climate by restoring forests through carbon offsets and donations. This outstanding Australian organisation has restored more than 500 native

bio-diverse forests since 1997, planting more than 9.2 million native trees across both Australia and New Zealand.

Burson Auto Parts’ fleet of almost 1,000 vehicles across the country are carbon offset through Greenfleet, forming one of several major carbon offset initiatives being made across the immense Bapcor group of automotive aftermarket companies.

Burson Auto Parts explains it is also taking part in a tree planting program that contributes to offsetting the carbon emissions of its national vehicle fleet, an integral part of Bapcor’s Greenfleet commitment that contributes to the planting of new bio-diversive forests in Australia.

In fact, Bapcor’s contribution to date will assist in vegetating an area covering more than nine times the size of the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG).

18

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine October 2019

“We are delighted to be partnering with Greenfleet to support native Australian local reforestation projects that provide a wide range of environmental benefits,” Bapcor Chief Executive Officer, Darryl Abotomey, said.

“Our partnership with Greenfleet forms part of Bapcor’s strategic commitment to reducing its carbon footprint and taking action on environmental sustainability.”

Sustainability is reportedly an important part of this Australian owned company’s growth strategy.

Both Burson Auto Parts and the entire Bapcor Group say they are proud to be taking effective and directly measurable action through their partnership with Greenfleet.

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

NEWS

REDARC TO GIVE AWAY ULTIMATE INSTALLER PRIZE PACK Redarc is giving away the prize as part of its birthday celebrations In celebration of its 40th birthday, Redarc has launched a competition for its trade customers serving as a thank you for their on-going support over the years.

Celebrating 40 years is a significant milestone for any business, especially in this global economy.

The story of Redarc Electronics celebrates success and how through resilience and persistence, the company has been able to buck the decline in manufacturing in Australia thanks to customer support.

This competition is one of many activities which have included the unveiling of a special 40th anniversary logo.

Notably, Redarc released 40 limitededition ‘RED’ 40 amp in-vehicle DC battery chargers (BCDC1240D-LE), ensuring that they remain truly unique in celebration of the milestone occasion.

As an organisation that prides itself on giving back to its local community, Redarc is also raising $40,000 for local and national based charity organisations.

Up for grabs are five Ultimate Installer Prize Packs comprising of $2,000 worth of value each.

These include products and services such as: • BCDC1225D DC-DC Charger • Fuse Kit • Tow-Pro Elite electric trailer brake controller • 10-amp SmartCharge AC Battery Charger • Fluke 325 Multi-Meter • Workshop signage • Redarc polo shirts with their company’s logo “It’s been an honour to be a part of shaping Redarc’s history over the last 22 years of ownership,” Redarc Managing Director, Anthony Kittel, said.

“I have witnessed the transformation Redarc has undergone in the last 22 years, and I am thankful of the support we have received from our outstanding staff, customers, suppliers, distributors and partners who have backed our innovative, rugged and high-quality Australian Made products.”

The competition is open now and runs until the 14th of November. It is open to trade businesses who install Redarc products, including Auto Electricians of passenger, recreation, heavy and marine vehicles, as well as supply and fit retailers, mechanical, 4x4 and towbar/exhaust specialists or those who buy from Redarc and install their products into recreational vehicles.

Full terms and conditions can be found on the entry form.

To enter, visit www.redarc.com.au/trade-40

4X4 CULTURE LIVE ON SALE Tickets are now available for ARB’s upcoming off roading event, 4x4 Culture LIVE Tickets have gone on sale for the event following a significant response to the initial announcement.

Attendees can look forward to a weekend filled with product demonstrations and testing whilst enjoying camping by the river and putting their vehicles to the test on 8,000 acres of 4x4 terrain at Loveday 4x4 Adventure Park.

Tickets include entry and camping for three nights, access to workshops, tours and product experts, and your choice of food truck dinners for two nights and cold drinks straight from the licensed on-site tavern whilst listening to live music.

A family friendly event, tickets range from $150 for an adult, $60 for a teen (adult sized meals) and $35 for a child (kid friendly meals) with plenty of entertainment to keep everyone having a good time.

The event will be held across the 21st and 22nd of March, 2020.

For more information about the event or to buy tickets, go to www.4x4culturelive.com.au 20

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine October 2019

NEWS

COOLDRIVE EXPANDS ITS HALL OF FAME Two new members have been inducted CoolDrive Auto Parts has recognised loyalty, commitment and contribution with the induction of two integral staff members into its Hall of Fame.

Announced at CoolDrive’s recent Branch of the Year Awards evening, the Hall of Fame inductees for 2019 were confirmed as Western Australia and South Australia Regional Manager, Gary Lings, and Townsville Branch Manager, Angela Cannon.

In front of an audience of more than 100 guests including senior management and staff, branch managers, suppliers and industry VIPs, CoolDrive CEO, John Blanchard, announced that Gary and Angela would join the eight others already inducted into the Hall of Fame from previous years.

“Businesses are built of people and in some instances, the loyalty, commitment and contributions of individuals employed in companies can be overlooked,” CoolDrive Chief Executive Officer, John Blanchard, said.

“By creating the CoolDrive ‘Hall of Fame’, we set out to change that, by recognising the amazing work of people in our business and how that work has built the foundation of our business.

“I think too it sends a message to our people that we truly value what they do and we appreciate their efforts.”

The two inductees to the CoolDrive Hall of Fame for 2019 were recognised for differing contributions.

“Gary and Angela have both been valuable members of the CoolDrive team since 2006, but they were integral contributors to the business prior to then, with their previous business, Factory Air, being a key customer for over 15 years before CoolDrive purchased their company and they moved to the ‘other side of the fence’,” John said.

“Since joining CoolDrive, Gary has driven the WA and SA region to immense success, including claiming the inaugural Region of the Year accolade in 2018.

“While under Angela’s management, the Townsville branch has gone from strength-tostrength, including being named one of the Branches of the Year in 2017 and a runner-up this year.

“Both Gary and Angela are extremely worthy recipients of this recognition and I know from their surprise on the night that the honour was very unexpected, so I have no doubt it’s something they will cherish.”

CoolDrive’s 2019 Branch of the Year Awards, which were sponsored by Redarc, were held at Rydges Norwest in Sydney in early August.

For further information on CoolDrive Auto Parts, please visit www.cooldrive.com.au

2019 PRI HIGHLIGHTS CAREER OPPORTUNITIES IN RACING

The Indianapolis Trade Show will offer seminars and networking for aspiring industry professionals Included in an expanded PRI Education Program at the 2019 PRI Show, held December 12-14 at the Indiana Convention Center in Indianapolis USA, will be the all-new Opportunities in Racing seminar, which will cover various career paths and options in motorsports.

PRI Editor Dan Schechner will moderate a panel of speakers that includes Zane Clark, (SEMA-PRI Senior Director of Education), Trent Schanen (Performance Instruction and Training), Alan Reinhart (NHRA), and David Hakim (Mopar).

Additionally, show goers can witness students compete for a national championship in the fast-paced Hot Rodders of Tomorrow engine build competition. The program is the culmination of a year-long contest to see which team can disassemble and reassemble a small-block engine with aftermarket components in the fastest time.

Known as Race Industry Week, the days leading up to and including the Show will offer a range of motorsports-related activities in and around the Indiana Convention Center beginning on Monday, December 9.

To register for the 2019 PRI Trade Show, secure hotel reservations, and sign up for free business seminars, log on to www.prishow.com Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine October 2019

21

FEATURE STORY

PENRITE OFFERS UP THE GOOD OIL ON MANUFACTURER APPROVALS

Over the past decade, oil specification and types have become more complicated than ever With industry and manufacturer specifications to consider such as viscosity, base oil, fuel economy, exhaust treatment systems and of course warranty, it is no wonder people are confused about what is the correct product to buy.

With many manufacturers demanding an OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) approval to preserve new vehicle warranties, in this article Australia’s own Penrite Oil explains the importance of such approvals and how their ongoing development ensures the right product for the right application.

What is an OEM approval?

An OEM approval is a confirmation in writing that the vehicle manufacturer has approved a product for warranty use on a vehicle where that particular products meets and exceeds the manufacturer specifications that the OEM specifies.

For engine lubricants and coolants, this is extremely important as specifications change and are upgraded as new models are introduced. As such, Penrite warns an industry approval might not meet the requirements of the OEM and could jeopardise longevity, fuel economy and emission requirements.

Why are OEM approvals important?

Products that carry OEM approvals such as engine oils and coolants are important for maintaining a vehicle in prime condition. They are: 1) What the manufacturer specifies 2) Initial fill product 3) Compatible with OEM product 4) Meet manufacturers service intervals 5) Tested and approved for use by the vehicle manufacturer 6) They remove risk of a product that may not meet performance requirements 7) They can be used for warranty and nonwarranty service Penrite says lubricants and coolants that have OEM approvals can be superior to products with industry base claims as manufacturers set higher standards of performance for products used in their vehicles. This is why the vehicle manufacturers will encode product specifications with their own brand to distinguish its performance level instead of relying on the industry bodies to set the standards.

Australia has seen a significant change in the make up of the car parc over the past 10 years, as well as an increase in diesel engined passenger car and light commercial vehicles taking to the road. These vehicles require modern lubricants that assist the vehicle in meeting on-road regulatory compliances.

Both petrol and diesel powered vehicles are trending toward lower viscosity, fuel efficient and emissions friendly type lubricants.

Penrite Oil, in conjunction with its international trade partners, says it continues to produce an industry leading range of lubricants suitable for vehicles still covered by the manufacturer warranty. Penrite also has many oils that are API (American Petroleum Institute) industry licensed which it says ensures the products meet the latest industry standards.

How does Penrite obtain OEM approvals?

Penrite explains that it develops and blends lubricant products that meet – and often exceed – the performance requirements of the vehicle manufacturer.

The oil is then independently tested by the manufacturer. If it passes all tests, then the product may be provided an OEM approval by the vehicle maker for a particular specification. This may be for an engine oil, gearbox or transmission fluid or a coolant.

Once the manufacturer has approved the product, they will advise that the product is suitable for in-warranty service where that specification is required. The products will normally feature on their web based license registrations. This allows users to check that the product is approved or licensed for warranty service.

22

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine October 2019

FEATURE STORY

Why are OEM Approved products important to workshop and service centres?

Penrite says its OEM approved products remove the risk of the warranty being voided by the manufacturer should something go wrong with a vehicle during the warranty period.

The replacement cost of an item such as an engine in a European car can be upwards of $50,000. This cost does not consider mechanical work, hire car fees, inconvenience and bad consumer rapport for the service centre if such an occurrence happens.

Penrite warns that the service agent might think that the product they used met the manufacturer specifications when it does not, despite the claims of the oil company. Without an OEM approval on the product for the particular application or

specification required by the OEM for a vehicle, the service centre could be responsible for a very large repair bill, it says.

Penrite says another reason to use its approved products is that they are guaranteed to meet the specifications required by the manufacturer. It says there are plenty of lubricants and coolants in the trade market that have unreal and unsubstantiated performance claims that cannot be chemically met by a single product and unlike in Europe, there are no governing bodies in Australia policing these claims.

As such, workshops and consumers need to be aware that the performance claims on a product may not actually be true and they risk damaging a vehicle by using these products.

Penrite says that something to watch out for are products that claim they can do every application.

It says this is not chemically possible. Some examples of this are: 1) An oil that claims it is both ACEA A3/ B4 and ACEA C3 specification. These two specifications cannot be met by the same oil in the current ACEA sequence (2016).

2) If an oil has an ACEA claim that it is A3/B404, then it is based on 2004 technology and not current additive technology – not really the product that should be used in a vehicle requiring a current 2016 ACEA grade oil.

3) An oil that claims it is API SN, ACEA A3/B4 and is an xW-30 grade or under. This is not chemically possible.

4) Oils that claim both petrol and diesel specifications for a major manufacturer.

5) Products that claim non-industry specification such as “Legacy Service Fill” or “Energy Conserving”. These are not recognised industry terms and a marketing exercise for the trader.

6) Oil companies that do not have recommendation guides for their products also feed off the ones that do which absolves them from issues should they arise as they have not actually recommended the product.

OEM or industry approvals do not just apply to the passenger car and light commercial automotive category. There are industry approvals for heavy duty engine oils, coolants, marine, agricultural and industrial sectors that use lubricants and coolants.

Penrite states its OEM approvals guarantee lubricant and coolant performance to ensure peace of mind for owners and service technicians.

To find out more about Penrite’s comprehensive range of approved products, visit www.penriteoil.com.au or call 1300 736 748.

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine October 2019

23

PRODUCT R&D

HAYMAN REESE KNOWS TOWING There is one thing that connects a vehicle to a trailer, camper trailer, caravan or boat trailer: a towbar Hayman Reese says it is the market leader in the towing industry, manufacturing a full range of products to provide an end-to-end solution for businesses and consumers.

The first Hayman towbar was sold in 1941 at a country show by a gentleman named Eric Hayman. Over 75 years later, Hayman Reese is a household name, servicing thousands of the 1.5 million registered Australian RV and boat owners each year.

The quality of product, history of the brand and the service provided have become an integral part of the success of Hayman Reese, says the iconic Australian brand, which today still designs, tests, manufactures and distributes towbars in its purpose-built facility.

End-to-end solutions Since the very first towbar, Hayman Reese says it has strived to provide customers with everything required to equip a consumer with the safest towing solution. Each solution is sold as a complete kit, including comprehensive fitting instructions that enhance the ease of installation.

The Hayman Reese journey simply started with a towbar but has expanded to include SmartClick Wiring Solutions, Brake Controllers, Weight Distribution Systems as well as application specific products such as X-Bar, a tailored design 4WD solution.

Hayman Reese Towbars Hayman Reese is a real pioneer when it comes to towbars. In the early 1970s Hayman towbars was purchased by a US company called Reese, forming the Hayman Reese brand.

During this progressive time, the innovative 50mm x 50mm hitch receiver style towbar was introduced to the Australian market. Universally accepted by both trade customers and consumers, the 50mm hitch, commonly known as the Hayman Reese style, is still utilised today.

Since that time, Hayman Reese says it has continued to be at the forefront of towbar innovation.

The 2000s saw Hayman Reese change the way that towbars were painted. Previously, towbars 24

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine October 2019

were merely dipped in paint, which could allow foreign objects to destroy the paint integrity.

Hayman Reese decided to look to the future and change the way that towbars are finished.

Its introduction of the MetalShield three stage corrosion protection system has significantly increased the longevity and quality of the painted towbar. Firstly, towbars are shot blasted, preparing a clean uniform surface free from imperfections or foreign objects. This is followed by a preprotection surface using electricity to create an adhesive bond between the raw metal and the e-coat. Finally, the towbar is powder coated to ensure maximum durability against rust and corrosion. Hayman Reese says the finished result gives its towbars a quality finish that surpasses the performance of many others in the market.

The latest Hayman Reese innovation in towbars is SmartPin anti-rattle technology. For years, many consumers have experienced a rattle or knocking sound, created by the tow ball mount and hitch receiver. As part of the ongoing focus on product innovation and improvement, Hayman Reese says it specifically designed and developed the market leading SmartPin solution, engineered to combat any annoying rattle that motorists might experience.

Unique to the market, the SmartPin utilises two small ‘keyways’ in the hitch receiver that the SmartPin slots into. Once the accompanying nut is tightened, the SmartPin is held in place, providing sufficient pressure against the hitch receiver and tow ball mount to prevent rattle. The ability of the SmartPin to work effectively despite the type of hitch used means that the consumer can enjoy a quiet ride regardless of what they are towing.

Revolutionising a towbar is hard. Towbars are purpose built with a single function, often concealed away as much as possible. However, Hayman Reese says it pushed the boundaries again with the release of the X-Bar towbar in 2018.

Beyond the traditional single function of towing, the X-Bar reportedly delivers on the needs of 4WD enthusiasts in terms of clearance, recovery rating and strength. The Hayman Reese X-Bar has three dedicated recovery points, rated up to eight

tonnes, increases clearance by up to 100mm and has the strength to withstand heavy towing and recovery without compromise. Post release, it has been a success story for Hayman Reese, with the 4WD industry embracing the design and function.

Always ahead of the game, Hayman Reese says it provides its customers with a complete towbar kit including rated D shackles, tow ball, vehicle specific wiring harness, related hardware and vehicle specific fitting instructions aimed to make installation easier.

Wiring Solutions Innovation in towbars was only the start for Hayman Reese. At a similar time to the release of MetalShield, Hayman Reese also introduced what it calls the simplest solution for wiring a towbar - the Hayman Reese SmartClick wiring system.

Hayman Reese says the system makes wiring a towbar as easy as clicking two plugs together.

Taking the complexity out of splicing, cutting, matching and soldering wires, the vehicle specific SmartClick looms are designed to be ready to plug into the existing vehicle wiring, drastically reducing fitment time and margin for error.

Included in towbar kits for most modern vehicles, Hayman Reese says this product delivers on its brand promise to ensure the most efficient vehicle installation.

As advances in automotive technology have increased the complexity of vehicle electronics, Hayman Reese says it has continued to innovate to meet the needs of the changing market.

Gone are the days of grabbing a couple of metres of seven-core trailer cable, a trailer socket and a handful of scotch-locks. Modern vehicles can use CANbus wiring, single wire dual voltages, low voltage or even low current signals to operate the taillights where trailer wiring connects.

Determined to not allow this to be a become an issue for fitters, Hayman Reese explains it sought to find solutions for each vehicle. Now included in each kit that requires one, Hayman Reese wiring solutions include an Electronic Control Unit (ECU) that works by reading the status of vehicle tail lamps and powers the trailer lamps from the battery power source without disrupting codes in the vehicle system.

PRODUCT R&D

The ECU isolates the vehicle’s existing tail lamp circuits and transfers the power to the trailer lamps, preventing overload and providing protection against any trailer wiring faults, which is especially necessary for vehicles using an electrical control method like a Pulse Width Modulation. Paired with SmartClick harnesses, the inclusion of ECUs alleviates the fitment concerns encountered with the ever-changing intricate wiring systems in modern vehicles.

Safety is a key concern for Hayman Reese, which says it only provides its customers and consumers with quality products that will last the life of the vehicle.

This includes ensuring that the accompanying wiring systems for each Hayman Reese ECU carry the ACMA RCM mark (formerly known as ‘C-tick’). The RCM mark means that all Hayman Reese ECUs meet and adhere to Australian Electromagnetic Compatibility Standards and will not interfere with expensive and sensitive electronics critical to safe operation. Getting the set-up right is important in saving time and money but the safety of motorists is always the top priority for Hayman Reese, it says.

Brake Controllers Hayman Reese states it is also at the forefront of developing solutions to meet the changing needs of motorists, whilst ensuring that consumers can confidently tow in safety and meet legislative requirements.

Any trailer weighing over 750kg is required by Australian law to have a braking system installed.

Electric and electric over hydraulic brakes, commonly found in RVs and boat trailers, require a brake controller to control the voltage output to the trailer brakes.

Brake controller technology has progressed over the years. Starting with basic electric solutions, brake controllers have progressed to timerbased systems and more advanced proportional brake controllers. The current Hayman Reese range of brake controllers include both timer and proportional systems suiting many different applications.

The Hayman Reese Guardian and Compact brake controllers utilise a proven timer-based system

to increase the voltage to the trailer brakes over a length of time, increasing the braking force.

Great for lighter loads or off-road towing, the robust timer-based systems still have a place in the harsh Australian terrain.

The Guardian IQ and Compact IQ brake controllers take this technology one step further, using proportional braking technology to provide an even easier solution for consumers.

Reacting to the changing velocity in the vehicle, when the brake pedal is pressed, the brake controller will adjust the voltage sent to the trailer brakes to slow the trailer with ease.

The technology being used in Hayman Reese proportional brake controllers has reportedly been shown to achieve better results with many caravan stability systems and is amongst the preferred choice of caravan manufacturers.

Overall, continuing to offer both types of brake control solutions gives customers the choice to select the perfect product to meet their needs.

To further facilitate the fitment of Hayman Reese brake controllers, in 2015 Hayman Reese released a range of brake control harnesses.

Clicking into the existing Hayman Reese SmartClick towbar wiring harness, the brake control harness range reduces fitment time and again removes the complexity of integrating with specific vehicle wiring systems.

With safety at the forefront of all products, Hayman Reese says its Weight Distribution range is no exception.

The company says it aims to keep consumers safe while towing and that is exactly where weight distribution comes into play. The concept, principles and primary function of the Weight Distribution range have stood the test of time, with many inferior look-alike products now on the market.

The concept of weight distribution is to spread the weight applied at the rear of the vehicle, when towing, more evenly across all axles. This allows for greater stability and less stress on pressure points, as the towing load is distributed across a larger area.

When originally released, Hayman Reese had a ‘trunnion’ style spring bar concept. This suited most caravans at the time as they had a similar

A-frame depth and coupling position. Over time, as caravans changed to accommodate the developing requirements set by the market, the traditional ‘trunnion’ style spring bars were no longer a ‘one-fits all’ scenario. Rather than maintaining the status quo, Hayman Reese developed the ‘round bar’ style of spring bar, providing increased clearance around the A-frame.

Presently, both styles are still sold, each within their own weight ranges: ‘Trunnion’ style accommodating consumers with a shallower A-frame or bottom mounted coupling, whilst ‘round bar’ systems meet the needs of top mounted couplings with deeper A-frames.

Hayman Reese weight distribution systems have become an integral part of a towing system, with many consumers exclaiming that they won’t tow without them. The success of these systems has become so predominant over the years that the development of most new caravan coupling systems considers the integration of weight distribution as mandatory to ensure the safety of the vehicle and its occupants.

Knowing towing Hayman Reese says it is proud to be a leader in towing, offering end-to-end solutions with quality you can rely on.

From the brake controller at the front of the car, to weight distribution and everything in between; it says you can rely on the Hayman Reese brand and that is why Hayman Reese has become the most sought-after range of towing products in Australia.

With everything you need in every kit, simplified solutions, assured quality and ease of fitment, the company says the Hayman Reese range is bound to save you both time and money, whilst helping motorists to stay safe on the road whilst towing.

For more from Hayman Reese, visit www.haymanreese.com.au

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine Publisher, Cameron McLachlan, takes a look at the products driving the automotive aftermarket. cameron@aaaa.com.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine October 2019

25

PRODUCTS

AMPHENOL’S HYPERBUSS FAMILY Delivering more power, more data, more control Amphenol Australia says its Hyperbuss family of receptacle connectors are a high-performance, cost-effective solution used in a variety of buss, a conductor, or interconnect applications where a common “bussed” electrical pathway is required.

Amphenol says they contain superior environmental seals and seal retention capabilities and are used for collecting electric power from the incoming feeders, distributing them to the outgoing feeders; a type of electrical junction in which all the incoming and outgoing electrical current meets.

The connectors are currently available in Hyperbuss AT Series and Hyperbuss ATV Series options, each intermateable with their respective industry standard connectors.

HELLA’S ROKLUME 190 TP IS THE IDEAL WORKSHOP COMPANION Compact size LED work lamp developed specifically for heavy duty applications with Thermo Pro plastic housing and powerful light output The compact HELLA RokLUME 190 TP is an ideal LED work light that combines a powerful light output with a practical design.

The work light is designed so that it can be used anywhere thanks to its compact dimensions.

The innovative rectangular styling with lightweight corrosion proof thermally conductive plastic housing also features cooling fins, which ensure the required heat dissipation from the high-power LEDs. Together with weight reduction, the new material also offers the advantage of complete corrosion resistance.

The light output from the six high-power LEDs is an impressive 1850 Lumen.

The light is distributed by a specially developed multi-faceted reflector, thus ensuring homogenous illumination. Models with varying cover lenses lend themselves either for close-range or long-range illumination, as required.

Additional value to the operators is the energy consumption with just 26 Watts of power. Because of such low energy consumption, the HELLA RokLUME 190 TP is ideal for use in vehicles powered by batteries and in those where there are already significant demands on the alternator. The multivolt electronics of this headlamp are designed for vehicles with vehicle electric system voltage of 12 and 24 Volt.

With a colour temperature of 5,000 Kelvin, the light from the LED work light is very similar to daylight. This helps to distinguish colours more easily in the dark and makes sensory perception through the human eyes much easier. In turn, this prevents the eyes from tiring quickly during work at night.

The integrated electronics protect the device in the event of polarity inversion and guarantee constant brightness, even when operating voltage fluctuates between 10.5 and 32 Volts DC. In addition temperature sensors protect the work light from overheating. Only in this way can the long service life of the LEDs and a safe working environment at night be guaranteed.

For more information visit www.hella.com.au

NEW REAR AIR SPRINGS From Arnott for Volvo SPA Platform Models Key features: • Hyperbuss AT Series: available in two, four, six, eight and 12 Position • Hyperbuss ATV Series: available in 18 Position • Sealed, integrated, bussed feedback assembly • Rectangular, thermoplastic housing • Integrated latch for mating • Included wedgelock confirms contact alignment and retention • IP67 rated in mated condition

Arnott, a industry leader in aftermarket air suspension products, has introduced a new rear aftermarket air spring for Volvo SPA platform models equipped with optional electronically controlled air suspension including the 20162019 XC90, 2018-2019 XC60 and the 2017-2019 V90 Cross Country (excluding hybrid models).

Applications include the Heavy Duty, Transportation, Marine, Diagnostic, Military, Alternative Energy and Agricultural industries.

The Arnott Volvo air spring is designed, assembled and tested in the US, is backed by Arnott’s industry-leading warranty and is available in Australia from leading distributors.

For more information, visit www.amphenol.com.au 28

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine October 2019

Arnott’s new rear air spring, A-3307, for the Volvo SPA platform models features a cross-axis, multiply, ContiTech air sleeve engineered for extended service life.

The air spring is assembled with Tier One components including heavy-duty crimp rings, high-impact resin top and piston, a dust cover and a new 6mm air line fitting for a fast installation. The universal air spring fits the left or right side of the vehicle.

For more information on the company’s extensive line of affordable, high-quality air suspension products for more than 150 automotive and motorcycle applications, visit www.arnottindustries.com

PRODUCTS

ASV P-FREE Giving you more spare time Two years ago, ASV launched its range of puncture-free tyres, ASV P-free, which it says has revolutionised the Australian tyre market with its self-healing tyre technology which means you do not have to carry a spare tyre.

Fast forward to 2019 and the company says the ASV P-free product is now transforming the way mining sites operate their commercial vehicles around Australia as without the constant battle of elements and puncture and tyre wounds, mining vehicles have more spare time to get the job done quicker and therefore be more profitable.

The ASV P-free tyres for the mines come in two styles. Tyre A is a mud terrain tyre that has extra added ply which assists the tyre with grip and traction; especially important with wet conditions.

Tyre B is an all-terrain tyre which contains a chip resistant rubber designed specifically for driving in shale and rock conditions. The tyre is designed to take on more pressure and punishing conditions and the effect of this rubber will mean that the overall tyre life is extended, says ASV. ASV P-free tyres aren’t only for mine sites and

30

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine October 2019

rough terrain. From the family car to the race track to Paramedical Australia’s Ambulance fleet, ASV says you can rest-assured these tyres will take you anywhere you need to go without worrying about carrying the extra weight of a spare.

ASV P-free tyres are made of a self-sealing gel, which is comprised of thermoplastic elastomer, resin and a rubber processing/extender oil. When they are punctured by a sharp object, the gel application seals itself around the foreign object and remains there even if the item is removed or falls out of its own accord.

This means the tyre remains inflated without losing pressure. The tyre will remain inflated even after a puncture, for the complete life of the tyre, so ASV says there is no need to ever repair or replace that tyre with this Australian-Patented design providing the comfort of knowing you can keep driving, even if you drive across unexpected debris.

ASV Euro Car Parts says its decades of experience in the automotive industry ensures these tyres are some of the best performing in the business.

With a national network covering Australia and

New Zealand and a supply chain that spans countries across the globe, ASV states it offers its customers the broadest range of parts and the most professional, customer-focused level of service in the industry.

For more information, please visit www.asv.com.au

PRODUCTS

SUBARU XV PERFORMANCE UPGRADE From Xtreme Clutch Australian Clutch Services says the Subaru brand has a long history of providing excellent platforms for tuning and performance builds.

The Subaru XV is joining a growing list of vehicles from the brand that are seeing aftermarket tuning and support for performance and style upgrades.

Xtreme Clutch, the performance division of Australian Clutch Services, is now offering a sprung organic performance upgrade to suit.

Developed in-house at Australian Clutch Services, the new kit includes a heavy-duty pressure plate with a 49 percent increase in clamping force over the factory setup.

The kit also includes a replacement sprung organic friction disc, thrust bearing, pilot bearing and an alignment tool ensuring the installer has everything required in the box for the installation process.

GOSS REDESIGNS EGR COOLERS IM Group claims that its R&D team has developed a product that is less prone to cracking and leaking than OE parts Goss offers an extensive range of replacement EGR Coolers to the automotive aftermarket. Goss has redesigned the EGR Cooler to produce a product less prone to cracking and leaking than the original parts.

This innovative product was totally designed, manufactured and tested by the IM Group Research & Development team in conjunction with our supplier/manufacturer.

The internal tubes are now manufactured from stainless steel for longevity. These tubes are then TIG welded to laser cut plates isolating the coolant from the exhaust. This new design cools the exhaust gases more efficiently. This also helps prevent a build-up of carbon that would usually diminish the effectiveness of the system.

To combat the common fault of cracking due to heat stress, the Goss EGR coolers have been reinforced in certain areas to make a stronger more resilient item than original.

Goss says it is important to offer customers a top quality product and an imperative part of that is to make sure the product arrives in tact and undamaged when being freighted either within the same suburb or across the country. Due to the weight and shape of the EGR coolers, Goss recognised that the current packaging would not be sufficient to stand up to the stresses of freight carriers. Goss set about designing packaging that would ensure the cooler arrived in perfect condition.

All Goss EGR coolers are heat, stress, pressure and resonance tested to meet or exceed OE specifications and unlike OEM EGR coolers, they are supplied with a complete fitting kit, providing the customer a genuine alternative.

For more information visit www.im-group.com.au or www.goss.com.au

YAKIMA ACEO’SPADES The Yakima “AceO’Spades” is not your everyday roof rack and platform aftermarket accessory Yakima AceO’Spades attach to a roof rack and store longhandled equipment safely, securely and conveniently on the outside of your vehicle.

“Our new performance upgrade kit to suit the Subaru XV is designed to offer a great balance between drivability and performance,” Xtreme Clutch Mechanical Engineer, Stewart Furze, said.

“The kit offers an impressive increase in clamping force for vehicles that have had significant performance upgrades, but still retains an organic friction disc for everyday drivability.

“Despite the 49 percent increase in clamping force, there is only a 20 percent increase in bearing load so the pedal remains light enough to be used for the daily commute.”

The performance upgrade is available now through the Xtreme Clutch nationwide distribution network.

For more information on the Xtreme Clutch range of products, please visit www.xtremeclutch.com.au or call 1800 CLUTCH 32

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine October 2019

AceO’Spades securely holds handles up to 30-55mm in diameter and is ideal for tools with straight shafts (shovels), “D” handle (spades), and oval handles (axes), as well as sporting equipment (paddles or oars).

Yakima says the AceO’Spades product is revolutionary and innovative due to its unique ‘pop and drop’ mechanism – simply pop open the handcuff-inspired holders and drop your tool/oar in. What is also unique, is that it is lockable with the addition of the ‘Same Key System’ (SKS) locks to keep equipment safe.

Inside each handcuff-inspired holder, the mechanism has rubber pads with cross-directional ribs which stop the carried item from sliding out or twisting (so for example, an axe loaded in stays oriented how you want it). These rubber pads also provide cushioning and protection for carried loads.

The Yakima AceO’Spades shovel holder works with the Yakima LockNLoad roof rack crossbars, Platform and most competitor roof rack systems that feature an accessory T-slot.

Designed and tested to Australian conditions, Yakima AceO’Spades is tough. Also unlike other accessories in this space, it is reportedly not limited to one activity. Any long-handle equipment – fishing rods, brooms, rakes, shovel, spade, oars, paddles, axes, poles – are easily carried on roof racks or platform.

The Yakima AceO’Spades is also said to be lightweight and easy to install and remove.

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

PRODUCTS

HIGH-END SHOCK ABSORBERS AND SUSPENSION KITS From Bilstein Since the development of the first mono-tube gaspressure shock absorber in 1957, Bilstein says it has worked closely with vehicle manufacturers such as Mercedes-Benz, Porsche and BMW. Today, the company offers an interesting range of special OE replacement shock absorbers and complete suspension kits for a variety of car brands and models, for tuning and performance purposes.

“Better than the original” is the motto for the Bilstein B6, which the company says perfectly summarises its properties.

It says this gas-pressure shock absorber is the ideal upgrade for those who do not want to

compromise on comfort and performance and want to leave the look of their car untouched.

The B6’s length corresponds to the OE damper, whereby it harmonises well with the original springs of the car creating a balanced ride – providing an optimal blend of ride comfort, sportiness and safety that masters even extreme situations confidently, says Bilstein. Further, the setup of each Bilstein B6 has been “composed” individually by Bilstein‘s own ride and handling department Bilstein says its B8 shock absorber achieves the same performance as the B6, but is optimised for use with shortened springs, as it is important to optimally adapt the travel height of the shock absorbers corresponding to the springs.

Not only can aftermarket springs benefit from the B8, but Bilstein says standard sport springs also gain in performance through the use of Bilstein B8 shocks.

Bilstein not only offers individual shock absorbers, but also complete sport suspension kits. It starts with the conventional Bilstein B12

Pro-Kit or the more extreme version Bilstein B12 Sportline. The coilovers Bilstein B14, B16 and Clubsport also offer the possibility to adjust a customised height.

In addition to the features of the B14 entry-level model, the B16 offers a mechanical parallel adjustment of rebound and compression via an adjustment wheel with ten distinct clicks. If you like to bring your car to the race track, Bilstein says its Clubsport is your choice, stating that the high-tech coilover kit offers fall-adjustable uniball support bearings as well as a separate adjustment of rebound and compression with a total of 100 adjustment variants possible.

For more information, visit www.bilstein.com

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine October 2019

35

PRODUCTS

DAYCO ADDS TIMING CHAIN KITS Dayco has added timing chain kits to its aftermarket range in Australia and New Zealand Dayco, a leading engine components and drive systems supplier for the automotive, industrial and aftermarket industries, has introduced a new range of premium quality Timing Chain Kits to the company’s vast Australasian automotive aftermarket product range.

Dayco says this new range of direct-fit Dayco Timing Chain Kits bring the benefits of the company’s world class design and engineering expertise in toothed belt power transmission systems along with Dayco’s in-depth knowledge of functional requirements.

It says that combining this expertise with the total quality and reliability hallmarks of the Dayco brand ensures that automotive repairers and parts

re-sellers across Australia and New Zealand can offer technicians outstanding quality replacement Dayco Timing Chain Kits to suit a wide range of popular local, Asian and European vehicle makes and models.

In designing the new Dayco Timing Chain kits, a system logic was followed, to ensure that all of the elements required for replacement, that is; the chain, hydraulic tensioner, sprockets and guides are included with every kit.

Additionally, Dayco says it has guaranteed that all elements of each Timing Chain Kit comply with the technical requirements of each single component. This provides maximum functionality, silence in operation and promotes longer transmission life.

The main advantages of the new Dayco Timing Chain Kit range include: • Synergic design of each entire kit (chain, guides, tensioner, gears and seals) • High robustness and proven reliability on test benches and in vehicle fleet testing

36

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine October 2019

• High strength steel, precision machined tensioners to ensure reduced internal clearances for optimum control and management of the timing chain tension • High strength plastic guides manufactured with glass fibres for additional strength • High strength moulding steel or sintered steel manufactured gears with specific heat treatments applied for the hardening of the toothed area surfaces To find out more about the new Dayco Timing Chain Kit range, visit www.dayco.com.au, call Dayco Australia customer service on 03 9794 4466 or contact your Dayco Distributor.

PRODUCTS

MILWAUKEE TOOLS COME TO 99 NEW LOCATIONS The heavy duty tool brand, Milwaukee Tool, is now available from GPC Asia Pacific GPC Asia Pacific is best known as AshdownIngram, Covs, Global Auto Spares, NAPA Auto Parts and R&E Auto Parts.

Known for innovative and hard wearing products, Milwaukee Tool has made its Automotive range available in all 99 GPC Asia Pacific locations across Australia and Ashdown-Ingram New Zealand.

This specialist range has been designed for automotive professionals in the electrical, mechanical, mining and repair space, with products being developed and engineered from working directly with end users.

Ashdown-Ingram says the result is a comprehensive set of tools including cordless, corded, hand tools, accessories and lighting to improve the work flow of automotive specialists.

Whilst the heroes of the Automotive range include a cordless soldering iron, impact drivers and impact wrench, the most exciting part about Milwaukee Tools is said to be the integration of One-Key.

This innovative system allows you to track, monitor, find and lock down your tools on site, meaning your investment isn’t thrown out the window when you’ve misplaced your tools. OneKey is available on selected tools within the range.

Should you need something outside of the core Automotive range, products from the full Milwaukee Tool catalogue are also available upon request.

The Ashdown-Ingram team is reportedly excited to welcome Milwaukee Tool to the family, with Ashdown-Ingram General Manager, Scott MacDonald, looking forward to seeing the brand inside each and every location.

“We stand by the quality and innovation that is the backbone of every Milwaukee product,” Scott said.

“When it comes to tools, it doesn’t matter what new trick your drill can do; if it doesn’t work the way you need it to, it’s pointless.

“Milwaukee has spent the time understanding

how tradesmen use their tools – not just in Automotive but in many industries – which is why they’re an industry leader and a proud addition to our house of leading brands.”

To celebrate the introduction of Milwaukee Tools, GPC Asia Pacific are offering a free pair of Milwaukee headphones to the first 200 customers nationwide in October 2019. The offer is valid at all 99 locations and will be delivered throughout November. Terms and conditions apply.

For more information about the range, please visit www.ashdown-ingram.com.au/milwaukee or speak with your local sales representative.

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine October 2019

37

PRODUCTS

TAKING DMF TO THE NEXT LEVEL Exedy claims its AISIN Twin Disc Kit improves driver comfort The AISIN Twin Disc Kit represents true innovation, says Exedy, which states it is a cost-effective replacement for the OE type DMF system while still matching the cabin noise levels and driver comfort of the OE system.

Driveline technology is evolving quickly and in the pursuit to lower cabin noise and increase driver comfort, Dual Mass Flywheels are becoming more popular with vehicle manufacturers.

The Dual Mass Flywheel (DMF) derives its name from the two main components (masses) that operate independently of each other.

The primary component is fitted with a ring gear and sensor ring (if applicable) and is attached to the crankshaft. This primary component usually incorporates a dampening mechanism made up of torsion springs and friction washers that are ideally suited to absorb torsional vibrations within the drivetrain.

The clutch unit is then bolted onto the secondary component. Simply put, a DMF is a damper for the drivetrain. Whilst the DMF has many positive attributes such as noise and vibration dampening, the DMF is a wearing part and as such will require replacement each time the clutch is replaced.

As a result, the total cost of replacing a clutch in a vehicle fitted with a DMF is significantly more. Exedy explains the team at AISIN identified a market gap and set an objective to develop a clutch and flywheel system possessing similar dampening attributes to a Dual Mass Flywheel, but with improved performance attributes and lower replacement cost.

This signalled the start of the development process for the innovative Twin Disc Conversion Clutch Kit, explains Exedy.

The Twin Disc clutch disc design comprises two friction plates driven off a single damper mechanism. This delivers a substantial reduction in production cost whilst increasing the clutch torque capacity by more than 10 percent over the OE clutch.

The Twin Disc design made it possible to reduce the clutch cover release load translating to a 40 percent decrease in pedal effort resulting in improved driver comfort over and above that delivered by the OE DMF system, says Exedy.

The AISIN Twin Disc conversion clutch kit provides benefits for both the consumer and the organisation. For vehicle owners, the AISIN Twin Disc clutch system is cheaper to purchase initially, and the total cost of ownership is also lower as the flywheel can be reused over and over again.

Additionally, the increase in clutch torque capacity enables the vehicle to tow greater loads whilst minimising clutch slip and wear. The AISIN clutch kit also provides benefits for the organisation with the lower cost design and subsequent improved profitability.

The AISIN clutch kit is supplied by Exedy.

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

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine October 2019

39

PRODUCTS

NOCO BOOST GB150 PRO Jump starting everything from diesel pickups to RVs and tractors Noco says its Noco Boost GB150 Pro is recommended for gas and diesel engines up to 10+L. Designed for high-displacement gas and diesel cars, trucks, boats and more, it is safe to use on engines of any size.

Power 12V Tyre Inflators, Power Inverters and more Noco says the Noco Boost GB150 Pro is more than just a battery jump starter pack. It also offers portable 12-volt power and can go anywhere while powering your favorite 12-volt devices such as tyre inflators, power inverters, coffee makers, fans and much more. You can even recharge USB devices, smartphones, tablets, e-watches and more.

EVERYTHING FOR THE AUTOMOTIVE WORKSHOP From CoolDrive CoolDrive Auto Parts, one of Australia’s largest national automotive parts distributors, has launched its annual workshop catalogue.

‘Tools & Equipment: Workshop Solutions’ is a 60-page catalogue containing details of over 300 individual workshop products offered from the CoolDrive range such as tools, equipment, supplies and consumables.

“CoolDrive’s aim is to provide the mechanic workshops of Australasia with a one-stop shop to purchase everything they could possibly need to run a successful, modern automotive business,” CoolDrive Auto Parts Chief Executive Officer, John Blanchard, said.

“It’s all captured in the latest catalogue, which is available online or from our branches, making product comparisons and ordering extremely simple.”

Just about anything you can think of for an automotive workshop is available from CoolDrive, says the company, from the large items like vehicle hoists, tyre changing machines and wheel balancers, to the smaller like safety goggles and even workshop gloves.

There’s the parts range like air filters, compressor parts, fans and components, fittings, air-line kits, heater taps, cores/assemblies and parts, hose, pipe and alloy lines, idler pulleys and brackets, O-rings and service kits, pressure switches, TX valves and thermostats.

Tools include the full range of AC tools, plus specialised tools for electrical, hybrid and EV applications, scan tools and diagnostic tool kits, and test kits for trucks and marine.

Three times more power at half the size

Equipment offered includes compressors, condensers, evaporators, receiver driers and blowers.

Compared to an equivalent 3,000-amp lead-acid jump starter, Noco says the GB150 provides 22,500 joules versus 7,500 joules. It explains that not only is it three times more powerful, it is also nearly two times smaller and lighter.

Plus, as part of its ongoing focus on providing a full range of tools, equipment and services to workshops, CoolDrive has partnered with Bosch to offer specialised training courses on servicing hybrid and electric vehicles.

22,500 Joules, not peaks amps

CoolDrive was founded over 40 years ago on automotive air-conditioning expertise and equipment, and while it’s now one of Australia’s largest national automotive parts distributors, air-conditioning remains central to the company’s core competency.

Noco explains that joules start vehicles, not peak amps. The average vehicle jump starts in one to three seconds, making peak amps somewhat worthless, but actual power over time illustrates a battery booster’s real potential, says Noco.

It therefore offers a broad range of air-conditioning system repair and refurbish equipment including Charging Stations, Recovery Machines with oil separators and driers, cooling system refillers, exchanger and test kits, single and two-stage vacuum pumps, wireless gas weighing scales, manifold gauge sets, gas leak detectors and dyes, refrigerant identifiers, flush machines, guns and tanks, and temperature and humidity loggers.

80 jump starts per charge

Additionally, there’s all manner of specialist air-conditioning tools for system maintenance and repair, including multimeters, scan tools, adaptors, couplers, clips and connectors, and crimper sets.

Ensuring it truly is a one-stop-shop for everything related to automotive air-conditioning, CoolDrive says it even offers the R134a and HFO-1234yf refrigerant itself.

The Noco GB150 Pro is a powerful lithium jump starter which is capable of jump starting up to 80 vehicles on a single charge, says Noco, which explains the product is rated for over 1,000 charge cycles and holds its charge level for over a year with minimal power loss.

For more information, visit www.no.co 40

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine October 2019

Add to that an extensive range of oils and lubricants, and it’s hard to think of anything that an automotive workshop would need that isn’t available from CoolDrive, it says.

The ‘Tools & Equipment: Workshop Solutions’ catalogue is available online at www.cooldrive.com.au or from any of CoolDrive’s branches Australia-wide and in New Zealand.

PRODUCTS

NEW FROM PEDDERS Pedders has released a number of new products to market recently Amongst the latest releases from Pedders are Control Arms, TrakRyder Ceramic Brake Shoes, Brake Fluid and Urethane Diff Mount Kits.

Pedders Control Arms Pedders has released a new series of Control Arms for the Mazda CX-5/7/9, Honda Captiva, Subaru Forester and Toyota HiLux REVO. These Control Arms are available now, are precision engineered and are a premium, direct replacement for OE items, says Pedders.

TrakRyder Ceramic Brake Shoes Pedders says its innovative TrakRyder Ceramic Brake Shoes are a suitable upgrade for vehicles that are equipped with rear drum brakes and regularly tow or carry loads.

Compared to traditional semi-metallic drum shoes, Pedders says TrakRyder Ceramic Brake

Shoes are less abrasive and therefore have extended life, exhibit less brake fade and are able to handle higher brake temperatures.

These Ceramic Brake Shoes are GG rated, giving increased pedal bite when cold and consistent braking feel over a wider range of temperature over regular FF rated shoes, says Pedders, which explains that this is important when towing, or carrying a load.

Pedders Brake Fluid Pedders has developed a range of high quality Brake Fluids in both DOT3 and Super DOT4 specification for a wide range of applications.

Pedders DOT 3 Brake Fluid is a premium, high boiling point polyglycol-based fluid. It contains corrosion and oxidation inhibitors that protect rubber and metallic components present in the vehicle’s brake system and is designed to meet and exceed all the DOT 3 requirements for motor vehicle brake fluids.

It is suitable for passenger vehicles, motorcycles, light and heavy-duty vehicles and equipment where a non-petroleum based DOT 3 (mining, construction and agricultural application) is required.

Pedders SUPER DOT 4 Brake Fluid is a premium, high boiling point fluid containing corrosion and oxidation inhibitors that protect rubber and metallic components present in the vehicle’s brake system.

It is designed to meet and exceed all the DOT 4 and DOT 3 requirements for motor vehicle brake

fluids and is suitable for passenger vehicles, motorcycles, light and heavy-duty vehicles and equipment where a non-petroleum based DOT 4 (mining, construction and agricultural application) is required.

Urethane Diff Mount Kit for 2004-on Ford Territory AWD models Pedders says it has developed an innovative, two-piece Urethane Diff Mount Kit for the Ford Territory, which drastically reduces installation time compared to one piece, steel-cased bush kits and delivers smooth, compliant ride characteristics.

Pedders’ polyurethane bushings are designed to allow ease of movement of your vehicle’s suspension components while maintaining correct alignment.

For more information on any of the above products, please visit www.pedders.com.au

POWERING INDUSTRY LEADING BRANDS Ashdown-Ingram says it is your home of leading brands This is why you can find Narva and Projecta on shelves in more than 50 of its locations across Australia and New Zealand.

With more than 5,000 individual part numbers making up the Narva range and eight categories of products building Projecta, Ashdown-Ingram says it is your primary destination for the

complete suite of Narva and Projecta market leading automotive electrical products.

“The Narva and Projecta brands offer our customers quality products covering a wide range of automotive electrical and lighting needs,” Ashdown-Ingram Business Manager for Lighting and Accessories, Steve Mitchell, said.

“We’ve been partners for a long time, with our specialist customers asking for Narva and Projecta by name because they know the product quality and the value it provides.”

Brown & Watson International (BWI), the Australian owned and operated company behind Narva and Projecta, says it prides itself on its design, engineering and development capabilities that go into every product produced.

The BWI testing facility is said to be state of the art, ensuring all products meet Australian and international conditions. Fully accredited to

ISO9001, the in-house Environmental Laboratory tests for ingress protection, dust, water, vibration and humidity.

Among the expansive range are products such as Ultima LED driving lights, trailer connectors, switches, LED combination lamps, battery chargers and the Powerhub.

For more information about the Narva and Projecta range, please contact your local Ashdown-Ingram branch via www.ashdown-ingram.com.au/locations Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine October 2019

43

PRODUCTS

TURBOSMART’S SILICONE HOSE Turbosmart says silicone hoses are stronger, tougher and more flexible than ordinary rubber hoses Performance vehicles are renowned for developing greater heat and Turbosmart says if you don’t upgrade your hoses, chances are you are transferring all of the thermal increase into rubber components not designed to handle that level of heat.

Due to the extreme temperatures often experienced under the hood of any vehicle, rubber hoses are prone to becoming loose, brittle and even cracking.

This can not only lead to expensive replacement costs over the lifetime of hose replacements, but can also open the door to risk of fault while the vehicle is being used. If a faulty hose is not identified early this can lead to even greater mechanical issues, causing greater headaches.

Turbosmart says this is why it has developed Silicone Hoses manufactured from a highgrade silicone which offer superior temperature resistance, making them ideal for cooling/ heating and charged-air applications.

Turbosmart explains they will last longer, perform better and will not deform under extreme thermodynamic conditions, while also retaining its flexible composition, meaning that as opposed to OEM rubber hose, they are much easier to fit and remove when servicing the vehicle.

All Turbosmart Silicone Hoses are pressure rated up to 220psi, temperature rated to 180C (350F), and are available in a wide range of styles and diameters.

All Silicone Hoses are available in black and blue and are supported with a comprehensive line-up of accessories.

For more information, visit www.turbosmart.com or speak with your local Turbosmart distributor.

44

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine October 2019

HARROP’S 4X4 FRONT BRAKE UPGRADE Locally developed product adds real stopping power Developed entirely in-house at its stateof-the-art facility in Preston Victoria, Harrop says its innovative 4x4 Front Brake Upgrade range includes kits to suit the Holden RG Colorado, Ford PX Ranger, Ford Raptor (Australia’s current 4x4 of the year) and Australia’s top selling vehicle, the Toyota Hilux.

Harrop’s 4x4 Front Brake Upgrade reportedly delivers substantial increases in braking performance for these extremely popular vehicles.

Consisting of one-piece 36mm non-directional rotors with drill point pattern and six Piston Ultimate Calipers, the Harrop Front Brake Upgrade is said to offer superior heat dissipation and resistance to brake fade when compared to OE fitted brakes.

Drawing on lessons learned over years developing and manufacturing high-performance and racing components, the front rotors also feature a new multi-vane internal pattern, placing these new kits on the leading-edge of braking technology, says Harrop.

Designed specifically to suit popular models, Harrop’s 4x4 Front Brake Upgrade covers in-excess of 412,500 vehicles in Australia’s car parc.

Harrop says it discovered rapid growth in performance upgrades for petrol and diesel 4WDs and that owners of modified 4WDs were actively searching for brake upgrades to complement their new-found engine performance.

The company reports that its 4x4 Front Brake Upgrade Kit has been tested extensively to deliver superior and repeatable braking performance and that in development, ease of fitment was considered critical to the product’s success.

As such, Harrop’s team designed aluminium brackets specifically to suit the standard upright caliper mounting position, allowing installers to reuse the bolts from the standard OE mounting.

Harrop explains that its highly regarded six piston (ultimate) caliper was identified as the perfect match for the new rotor design, so it was quickly specified for the 4x4 Front Brake Upgrade Kit. To match the combined stopping power of the rotor and caliper combination, the kit also includes stainless braided lines. Partnering with Australian brake hose manufacturer Brakequip, Harrop has developed a braided line specifically for the range.

Harrop says the decision to coat the rotors in Dacromet also highlights its ability to source and collaborate with industry leading manufacturers to increase the performance and value of its products.

Dacromet is a leading inorganic coating, states Harrop, which explains it is a water-based, VOC compliant coating, comprised mainly of overlapping zinc and aluminium flake in an inorganic binder that provides Four Way Corrosion Protection.

Harrop says the rotor vane design also represents true innovation as it breaks new ground in being directional in operation and uni-directional in fitment.

Featuring 108 curved vane posts, arranged to maximise airflow and retain the rigidity between the braking faces, Harrop’s innovative vane design allows for uni-directional air-flow, delivering performance and versatility in equal quantities.

The Harrop 4x4 Front Brake Upgrade Kit is engineered to exceed standard original equipment utilising a combination of larger, more sophisticated rotor design, powerful calipers and pads specifically designed to work in harmony with all other kit components, as well as being specifically designed to suit Australian conditions.

Harrop says its innovative 4x4 Front Brake Upgrade Kit is perfect for owners of modified Holden RG Colorado’s, Ford PX Ranger’s, Ford Raptor and Toyota Hilux’s or those using their vehicle off-road or towing a caravan, camper or boat which adds extra load on the brakes and dramatically affects stopping distance.

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

PRODUCTS

ZF EXTENDS LEMFÖRDER PRODUCT PORTFOLIO For Electric and Hybrid Vehicles ZF Aftermarket says it is committed to continually increasing its aftermarket product range with the latest offering from its LEMFÖRDER brand being rubber-to-metal steering and chassis components for electric and hybrid vehicles.

Steering and chassis components retain and guide the vehicle’s wheels to provide the connection between the vehicle and the road to ensure safe, comfortable driving.

According to ZF Aftermarket, when it comes to safety critical systems such as the chassis, it is imperative that the different components interact seamlessly and it therefore pays to fit parts which have been designed, manufactured and tested by the company that devised the technology which sits behind them.

“With the continued rise in hybrid and electric vehicles, the aftermarket needs to be able to compete with the main dealers,” ZF Aftermarket Head of Product Management, Richard Adgey, said.

“The expansion of the LEMFÖRDER product portfolio for branded rubber, and rubber-metal bearings for the chassis systems of electric and

hybrid vehicles is a viable OE alternative for the aftermarket. They provide optimum steering behaviour and driving stability as preventing noise being transferred into the vehicle.”

In line with the increasing demand in the aftermarket for electric and hybrid vehicles, ZF Aftermarket has expanded the LEMFÖRDER product portfolio.

New additions includes suspension-strut mounts, link mounts and engine mounts for the BMW i8, link mounts and a suspension-strut mount repair kit (including relevant rolling bearing) for the Volkswagen e-Golf and link mounts and a suspension-strut mount repair kit and transmission mounts for the Audi A3 e-tron.

In the future, ZF Aftermarket will also offer LEMFÖRDER axle beam mountings for the rear axle on the Renault ZOE electric vehicle.

exact mounting of the new bearing. If not, the position should be marked prior to removing the defective bearings.

2. Never use oil as an assembly aid. If oil comes into contact with the rubber, it will damage it. Instead, ZF Aftermarket recommends using simple soap suds.

3. When dealing with link and suspension-strut mounts, only securely tighten the clamping screws with the required torque once the vehicle is in its assembly position again. This prevents distortions in the bearing that could lead to premature wear of the new parts.

For further information on the new range of LEMFÖRDER rubber-to-metal components for electric and hybrid vehicles, contact ZF Services Australia on 1800 ZF SALES (1800 93 72537) or visit www.zf.com/au

Regular checks are crucial 1. The installation position must be strictly adhered to. In some cases, the positioning marks are on the actual parts or on the installation location in order to permit the

DRIVING LIGHTS WITHOUT THE UGLINESS Lightforce’s X Grille allows you to fit driving lights without the need for a traditional bull bar or nudge bar In conjunction with AX4 Engineered, Lightforce has developed the X Grille – a bull bar or nudge bar alternative for four wheel drivers. The X Grille is an integrated replacement of the radiator grille for the bestselling Ford Ranger PX MkII. AX4 Engineered manufactures the glass-filled nylon composite grille, whilst Lightforce provide a special lightweight, adjustable version of their market leading Venom LED driving lights to deliver this unified, innovative aftermarket product.

The decision to engineer a glass-filled nylon composite grille was made to provide a LED light mount that is safe for the driver and for pedestrians. This material does not weigh down the front of the vehicle and it maintains the vehicle’s safety rating, all whilst preserving the OEM appearance.

This aftermarket grille delivers value to drivers by addressing the gap in the market of bull bar alternatives with integrated high performance lights. The X Grille is suited to drivers concerned about diminishing the safety of their vehicles, but whom still desire the addition of high performance LED lights for off-roading. The X Grille does not interfere with the wide range of sensors found

on modern vehicles ensuring a safe and risk free addition to customers’ Rangers. The X Grille houses the high performance LED driving lights safely contained within the OEM style surround.

This setting gives buyers peace of mind knowing the lights are secured, unlike the risk of mounting them on a bull bar. Lights are mounted from the rear of the X Grille for added security, which ensure the lights cannot be tampered with or stolen. Additionally, the lights are adjustable from the front, ensuring ease of use and providing the customer with a high range of adjustability.

Installing the X Grille is a straightforward process and will take under two hours by a professional.

A wiring harness, switch and connectors are included with the X Grille, whilst instructional installation videos will be available online.

The Lightforce Venom LED lights are securely attached from the rear of the X Grille allowing for a full range of adjustability. The mounting of the LED lights within the X Grille give drivers the assurance that the lights will not be damaged or lost whilst stationary, or driving. This aesthetic, secure design keeps wiring and fastenings secured under the bonnet.

Steel bull bars weigh up to 80 kilograms and to comply with South Australian regulations, the vehicle can weigh a gross maximum of 3.5 tonnes if manufactured after 2013.

The bull bar must conform to the vehicle shape and must be fitted so that it does not negatively alter the safety of the vehicle. In contrast, the X Grille is just over three kilos; inclusive of the Venom LED light inserts. This innovative, aftermarket product is a safe, lightweight alternative to the conventional bull bar for mounting driving lights. The reinforced glassfilled nylon composite is UV stable, high strength, shock resistant and features a bright chrome trim offering a complete, durable, sleek addition to customers’ vehicles.

For more information visit www.lightforce.com Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine October 2019

47

PRODUCTS

STAY AHEAD OF THE PACK TJM announces new TJM HD Vehicle Mount Compressor TJM says its new HD Vehicle Mount Compressor delivers faster inflation and longer running times thanks to its high flow rate (86 L/min) and 100 percent Duty Cycle.

TJM explains that this is made possible by its powerful internal componentry and advanced convection cooling system, which are designed to deliver peak performance and longevity in all conditions.

“Ever since we started work on this project, our aim has been to produce an air compressor that can not only perform at the highest level but do so for an extended period of time,” said James Renou, TJM’s lead engineer on the project.

48

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine October 2019

“The end result is a compressor that runs cooler, inflates faster and lasts longer.”

TJM says its HD Vehicle Mount Compressor has been painstakingly designed and brilliantly engineered, with its exterior constructed from a careful combination of cast and extruded aluminium.

This seamless anodised exterior is said to provide superior protection for the HD Vehicle Mount Compressor’s oversized internals, hard-anodised cylinder bore and Teflon-impregnated piston seal that “make its endurance as impressive as its performance.”

The company says the TJM HD Vehicle Mount Compressor is cleverly designed for ultimate functionality and features five unique mounting angles for easy access in your 4x4 – whether that’s in your engine bay, vehicle cab or drawer system. It also includes multiple tyre inflation points, six auxiliary ports and a Pressure Cut-Out switch for exceptional utility.

TJM’s new compressor has a three-year warranty and is priced at RRP $389.00 while the

matching airline kit (Nitto style) is RRP $69.00.

This includes a 6m rubber hose, a tyre inflation chuck, a female Nitto quick-connect fitting with male ¼”BSPT thread, an air blower and a selection of nozzles.

The TJM HD Vehicle Mount Compressor and associated accessories are available now through your local TJM distributor.

TJM says it has been equipping four-wheel drives with premium quality 4x4 accessories for 45 years. Engineered to withstand Australia’s harshest conditions, TJM’s product range includes fabricated bull bars and additional vehicle protection, snorkels, suspension, winches, recovery equipment, diff locks, air compressors, camping gear and more.

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

PRODUCTS

CTEK APPROVED BY MERCEDES-BENZ The Ctek PRO120 Battery Charger and Power Supply has been approved by the automaker Ctek, a leading global brand in the care and maintenance of vehicle batteries, is pleased to announce that its PRO120 Battery Charger and Power supply is now approved by Mercedes-Benz GSP. The unit meets W 000 588 00 81 00 charger requirements as described in the Mercedes-Benz Workshop-Information-System (WIS).

50

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine October 2019

Recognised for its ability to “charge and recharge starter batteries without disconnection from the on-board electrical system”, Ctek says this revolutionary unit can deliver up to 120A of battery charge or battery support safely and efficiently while also being very simple to operate.

The PRO120 restores, charges and reconditions the battery using a patented multi-step charging process and is compatible with all types of 12V battery, including lithium (LiFePO4).

The PRO120’s unique patent applied for Adaptive Charging mode automatically recognises the size of the battery and selects the optimum charging settings for the fastest charge, making operation quicker and easier than ever.

In Supply mode, the PRO120 Delivers 120A of power, even at 13.8V, to support uninterrupted flashing and diagnostic procedures, enabling these procedures to be completed within the standard time set by Mercedes.

It features market-leading Resonance Converter charging technology for rapid response to any changes in power demands, so the PRO120 can

meet the exact, changing current needs during flashing and diagnostic procedures. Workshops can avoid stalling of the process and/or damage to vehicle components by using the PRO120.

“Our PRO120 unit is proving to be the professional workshop’s choice thanks to its safety, reliability, power and guarantee that it will help technicians to get the job done in the shortest possible time,” Ctek Director of Sales and Marketing Asia Pacific, Robert Brigg, said.

“This approval from Mercedes is a real testament to this, and we are really proud of this recognition.”

For more information about the PRO120 from Ctek, visit www.ctek.com/au

PRODUCTS

BETTER THAN A PAIR OF EYES Bosch aims to be a market leader for camera technology Automated driving technology is gradually providing more and more assistance to the driver – with the future aim of the car being able to take complete control. But there is more to it than that, says Bosch.

“We want to make cars better drivers than people, and in this way to increase road safety. In other words, technology has to work more reliably than people,” Bosch management board member, Harald Kroeger, said.

That presents a major challenge, particularly in terms of surround sensing. Only if it knows exactly, and at all times, what is going on around it can an automated vehicle choose the right, and above all safe, driving strategy.

Bosch says it uses various technologies for surround sensing, including ultrasound, radar, and video. When it comes to structure and function, cameras come closest to the human eye, which is why they will be such invaluable assets for automated driving and indeed why they already play a key role in driver assistance.

Bosch states that it has now succeeded in taking automotive camera technology to a new level, with its new Bosch technology set to debut in vehicles in 2019.

The combination of its unique multi-path approach and artificial intelligence (AI) for object recognition will make surround sensing far more reliable, and road traffic safer, says Bosch.

Human drivers: looking but failing to see Cars with driver assistance, automatic emergency braking systems, and automated driving capability must be able to see all objects in their surroundings. On top of that, they must be able to detect in a flash if an object is relevant for their driving strategy. And just as quickly, they have to determine what their reaction to relevant objects should be. Should they brake, swerve, or continue on their path? Unlike the human eye, the new Bosch MPC3 mono video camera has been optimised to handle such decisions.

For humans, looking is one thing, but actually recognising what our eyes see is another matter.

Our eyes may be marvels of nature, but we have our weaknesses when it comes to visual perception. Just because we see something does not mean that we recognise and understand it.

Many drivers who are involved in accidents say that they had been looking in the right direction but failed to spot the other party. It is estimated

that up to 50 percent of road traffic collisions are attributable to this phenomenon. The new Bosch camera is superior to the human eye in this respect, not least because it never gets tired, and works just as well after hours of driving as during the first kilometre.

Bosch says its technology makes new and improved driver assistance systems possible, stating that its great strength lies in its robust object recognition, enabled by Bosch’s multipath approach. This also makes use of artificial intelligence. For example, Bosch engineers have taught the camera to reliably detect if the edge of the road is passable, even in the absence of road markings.

This camera intelligence is based on Bosch knowhow and integrated into a chip, known as V3H, made by the Japanese company Renesas. It can also improve legacy driver assistance systems and extend their application range. For instance, it could enhance automatic emergency braking systems to prevent vehicles hitting various types of animals. It could also make emergency braking more reliable, says Bosch, since the camera can recognise pedestrians even when they are partially concealed.

The Bosch innovation also reportedly improves road-sign recognition. The new Bosch camera features optical character recognition that reliably reads text and numbers on road signs, and presents this information to the driver on a dashboard display.

For more information, visit www.bosch.com

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine October 2019

53

PRODUCTS

DELIOS ROTORS Designed and engineered in Australia Delios says its brake rotors are created to exceed the OEM equivalent.

RYCO INTRODUCES VEHICLE SPECIFIC FITMENT KITS Ryco says the kits revolutionise the fitment of fuel water separator and crankcase filters

The company states that its “progressive manufacturing process ensures all rotors are manufactured to advanced specifications, increasing thermal resistance, performance and optimised endurance.”

When using Carbon Advantage Delios Brake Rotors, those behind the product say you can expect the following: • More bite – rotors are double face ground to ensure parallelism and ideal surface finishes for pads to grip and bed in.

• Better release control – full and equal pad contact translates to full and even release when hydraulic pressures are removed and .013mm max tolerance guarantees this.

• More stopping power – complete and even pad contact due to complete geometry and friction specific metallurgy equate to better grip at the point of friction contact and a more linear, positive Pedal Response.

• Noise level reduced for quiet braking – much like a feedback loop from a microphone in front of a speaker, brake squeal is a cyclic and compounding annoyance. Delios says its “no shortcuts, advanced material, sequential stress relieved” Delios Symmetrex technology gives the added benefit of “industry leading” harmonic resistance.

• Coated with Protekt – an anti corrosion formulation unlike high heat temperature paint, which coats the rotor and traps heat.

Protekt instead allows the heat from the metal to escape, while guarding against corrosion.

• Extended service life of the wheel suspension and wheel bearings – Delios says it ensures all the boxes are ticked. Dynamically balanced to quell rotational mass issues and symmetrically precision cast to be the first to tackle fore/aft imbalances, Delios states its rotors not only look after your safety, but also look after many of your vehicle’s sub systems.

For more information, visit www.deliosbrakes.com 54

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine October 2019

The fitment of fuel water separator and crankcase filters to diesel powered passenger vehicles has become a popular way to add extra engine protection from contaminants like water in fuel and chemical build up from crankcase gases.

To develop this new range of kits, the Engineering Team at Ryco used 3D engine bay scanning on a number of the popular diesel powered 4WDs and SUVs to ensure the best location was chosen to fit the mounting bracket.

However, the installation of these filters has been problematic due to the use of universal type mounting brackets and limited engine bay space.

The location was chosen for not only ease of fitment but to create easy access to the filters for replacement or inspection.

Ryco says this has now been rectified with the release of Ryco Vehicle Specific fitment Kits (RVSK) for a range of popular diesel vehicles that, as the name suggests, are individually developed for specific vehicles with purpose designed brackets and hoses for an exact and “far less complicated” fit.

Vehicles that regularly install a second battery were also taken into consideration with all kits compatible with dual battery setup.

Designed in Australia for Australian conditions, the RVSKs can mount either or both fuel water separator and crankcase filters and have been rigorously tested under high temperature, towing and off-road conditions.

Plus, the included PCV hose is purpose-moulded for a precise fit for the engine bay.

A range of on-road field testing and datalogging has been undertaken to measure a vehicle’s internal and external engine bay temperatures, fuel line temperatures as well as fuel water separator and crankcase temperatures.

Each of the mounting brackets also endures computer simulation and vibration testing to ensure that stiffness and load levels are within the design targets.

Ryco says that simply these RVSKs are built tough with brackets made from 3mm lasercut steel that’s also powder coated for added toughness.

Additionally, added abrasion resistant insulation has been used on all of the PCV and fuel hoses, to ensure that they are protected from the elements and piercing.

The result is a twin filter mounting kit that requires no drilling as each bracket has been designed for exact fitment into the pre-existing points in each specific vehicle’s engine bay.

To further simplify each installation, Ryco has included quick connectors for fuel hoses and illustrated fitting instructions that clearly show each step.

RVSKs are currently available for 2011-2018 Ford Ranger PX, Everest, Mazda BT 50 fitted with 2.2L and 3.2L diesel engines, Toyota Hilux 2005-2015 KUN 16 & 26 (1KD) and 2007-2018 Toyota Landcruiser VDJ70 Series, (1VD-FTV).

Kits for Mitsubishi 2015-2018 Pajero Sport and Triton and 2015-2018 Toyota Hilux and Fortuner GUN (1GD) are coming towards the end of the year.

The kits are available from all good Ryco stockists nationally.

For more information, go to www.rycofilters.com.au or call the Ryco customer service team on 1800 804 541.

PRODUCTS

NEW FROM LED AUTOLAMPS SAE/J845 Class One – extreme high intensity amber strobe emergency minibars LED Autolamps, designer and manufacturer of high-quality LED Automotive lighting, says it is excited to release its new LB Series high powered amber emergency mini bars.

Letting those around you know of a critical or precarious situation is essential to all breakdowns and working or responding vehicles in today’s traffic. Becoming more prevalent and certainly more required now, is intensely bright warning lights atop these vehicles.

LED Autolamps says it has answered this issue by adding to its emergency lighting range a pair of mounted amber strobe mini bars that exceed ECE R65 and SAE/J845 Class One standards for brightness and intensity.

The new LB series consist of two sizes, each with three available variations, a single bolt

56

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine October 2019

mount with either a clear or coloured lens, and a magnetic vacuum mount with a clear lens and 3m vehicle auxiliary power plug cable. The smallest, most compact of the series is the LB246 range measuring only 246mm x 172mm x 64mm and housing 30 x high brightness one-watt LEDs. Secondly is the medium sized LB380 range which measures 380mm x 172mm x 64mm and boasts 42 high brightness one-watt LEDs. Both feature a total of 18 flash patterns to choose from with one main flash pattern that is ECE R65 and SAE/J845 Class One compliant.

These lamps are designed to not only alert but also withstand the rigors of heavy-duty use. The lens cover is manufactured with UV resistant polycarbonate, which is renowned for its strength and durability, protecting the internals from the environment and allowing a long operational LED life span of 30,000 hours. Its sleek low-profile design also assists in avoiding unwanted damage and helps with minimising roof wind resistance.

They are also tested to the stringent IP65 water and dust ingress standards.

The high performing one-watt LEDs power through enhanced internal optics that amplify the light in an intense 360 ° omnidirectional output. They also have a very low operational current draw of 1.6 Amps and 2.5 Amps at 13.8 Volts respectively, which is important to consider when running them from the vehicles battery electrical system.

An operational temperature range of -40 ° to + 60 ° makes them suitable for many high traffic working environments and will ensure total awareness of your intentions and assist to enhance workplace safety. These lamps also have a very usable voltage range of 10-30 Volts.

The new lamps are supported by an LED Autolamps five-year peace of mind warranty and supplied in a colour retail box with comprehensive fitting instructions. Available to order now.

For further information, visit www.ledautolamps.com for your local distributor or call 03 9466 7075.

PRODUCTS

BCDC MOUNTING BRACKETS Vehicle specific brackets from Redarc Redarc has released a range of BCDC Mounting Brackets for vehicle specific applications which simplifies the installation of Redarc’s BCDC range into the vehicles’ engine bays.

Vehicle-specific mounting brackets are available now for: • BCDCMB-001 for Toyota LandCruiser 200 series • BCDCMB-002 for Toyota LandCruiser 70 series • BCDCMB-003 for Toyota LandCruiser Prado • BCDCMB-004 for Toyota Hilux (05-15)

• BCDCMB-005 for Toyota Hilux (10/15 onwards) • BCDCMB-006 for Isuzu D-MAX (06/12 onwards) and Holden Colorado RG (06/12 onwards) These brackets are designed to be used with Redarc’s BCDC In-vehicle charger range, are constructed from sturdy 304 stainless steel and will fit in the existing mounting points in the vehicle’s engine bay.

The brackets allows installation into the front of the vehicle allowing for cooler airflow, away from high-temperature areas and ensuring optimal performance. Included in these kits are the mounting bracket, fasteners and instructions to complete their installation.

With more and more electrical devices being used when travelling around Australia, along with more complex vehicle electrical systems, having the right battery charging solution has never been more important. Redarc says its range of In-vehicle Dual Battery Chargers ensure optimum performance of electrical equipment.

No matter what kind of battery charging system you’re after, Redarc says it has the solution, stating that its wide selection of DC to DC battery chargers are designed to keep your battery charged whilst driving and will fully charge auxiliary batteries to a proven 100 percent.

Compact in size, easy to install and fully sealed – water, dust and vibration are said to be no match for Redarc’s vehicle battery chargers. Suitable for 12- or 24-volt vehicle systems, Redarc’s dual battery chargers work with either standard voltage alternators or smart alternators.

To find out the best dual battery setup for your needs, Redarc invites you to use its free Dual Battery Selector at www.redarc.com.au/dual-battery-selector

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine October 2019

57

PRODUCTS

HYBRID ABS MODULES REPAIR Injectronics says it has a repair solution for Hybrid ABS Modules The Anti-lock brake system (ABS) is a very familiar system to today’s vehicles, maintaining control and directional stability of a vehicle under extreme braking conditions.

The ABS control module has a self−diagnostic system which monitors the input and output circuits and operates the solenoid valves and the pump motor in sequence to check each respective electrical system. This function operates only once each time the ignition switch is turned on.

There are around 100,000 vehicles with hybrid ABS braking systems on the road and the demand for an alternative to OEM replacement has been steadily increasing recently, says Injectronics.

After tasking its in house research and development team with the problem, Injectronics states it has identified a number of common faults with the hybrid ABS units found in the Toyota Prius and Camry models.

When a problem is detected in any of the systems, the Electronics Control Module (ECM) illuminates the ABS warning light in the instrument cluster to alert the driver that a malfunction has occurred.

The code is then stored in the memory for access at a later time. The ABS control module will also store the diagnostic trouble codes for any ABS malfunction. Diagnostic trouble codes can then be accessed by the technician when completing a diagnostic scan of the vehicle.

Injectronics says the Toyota Camry Hybrid AHV40R 2.4L (built between 2010-2012) and the Toyota Prius Hybrid NHW20R 1.5L (built between 2003-2009) as well as the Toyota Prius Hybrid ZVW30R 1.8L (built between 20092016) have been identified as having an inherent design flaw from manufacture.

Through extensive investigation and research, Injectronics says it can not only offer a repair of the customer’s own unit for the faults listed below, but that it has also developed a new repair process to rectify the original design flaws, offering the end user a better than original repair service.

Injectronics says that when replacing an ABS module, before removing the unit from the vehicle, you should check and record all fault

codes and this information should be supplied, along with any other diagnostic information, when you are sending your unit to Injectronics for repair.

Common faults can include: • ABS light on • Hard brake pedal • Fault code C1256 – Accumulator low pressure • Fault code C1391 – Abnormal leak of accumulator pressure • Fault code C1252 – Brake booster pump motor ON time abnormally long • Fault code C1253 – Hydro booster pump motor relay function To view all the latest repair solutions or to register a unit for repair, visit www.injectronics.com.au

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine October 2019

59

PRODUCTS

TIMING CHAIN SOLUTIONS As engine woes with the BMW 1, 3 and 5 Series continue, BGA says its solution is the best option In some cases, it is thought that the timing chain lasts the life of the engine, such as that in the BMW N47 Engine.

In this case, BMW’s engineers designed the engine so that the timing chain is located at the back, away from an easy service area, as it was expected to not need maintenance. BGA says though that also in this case, due to wear, the timing chain often begins to rattle between 40k70k miles which indicates imminent failure.

When the timing chain does snap, as in most cases, this will cause catastrophic damage where the pistons hit the valves, causing them to bend as they collide with the rocker arms.

When this happens, the engine must be removed

from the vehicle for repair and should this be the case, BGA says you need the BGA TC0900FK Timing Chain Kit, and you might need the valves and rocker arms too (BGA Part numbers: Inlet Valves V166200, Exhaust Valves V166211, Rocker Arms RA0615).

BGA explains that its TC0900FK kit for the BMW N47 includes uprated specification upper and lower Timing Chains, Oil pump chain, Tensioners, Guide Arms and Sprockets. BGA also includes the crankshaft oil seal and a new oil feed pipe too, which is something BGA says it does to ensure a completely comprehensive kit is supplied.

As with all of BGA’s Timing Chain Kits, they have been designed by BGA’s experienced Technical Engineering Team at their HQ in the heart of Wiltshire; and the company says this kit provides superior quality and installer peace of mind.

When you open the box, you will find specific kit instructions and also a reminder that the upgraded 94mm tensioner is included due to BMW’s design succession. BGA explains that it introduced kits to give the installer everything

60

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine October 2019

they need to complete the job including Gaskets, Seals and Feed Pipes where appropriate, allowing the installer to save time and money.

Its range covers more than 350 references for 7000+ relevant applications, which it says makes it one of the largest suppliers of Timing Chain Kits in Europe. All of BGA’s kits are engineered and Q.C Tested in house by its own automotive engineers and where possible, improve on the original, says BGA. BGA states that when replacing components, it is best practice to replace all of the associated parts. By doing so, the condition of the timing components, which are so critical to the operation of the engine, will now be all uniform and wear together again, preventing premature wear and failure.

For more from BGA, visit www.bgautomotive.co.uk

PRODUCTS

BLUECHEM DPF PRODUCTS MAKING WAVES The trade is singing the praises of Bluechem’s DPF range of products The Diesel Particle Filter (DPF) collects the soot from the exhaust system. This soot builds up and has to be removed, however the regeneration process requires the exhaust temperature to rise to 600 °C. This only happens on long journeys or ‘hard’ driving, or through automatic regeneration, and Bluechem says this does not always work.

Additive regeneration provides a more thorough and precise cleaning process regardless of soot volumes and this means that after a long period of non-regeneration, the regeneration process can fully start again. Further, filter cleaning can also help to keep exhaust gas emissions at the mandatory level, says Bluechem.

Bluechem says this is where its range of DPF products including DPF Power Clean, DPF Top Gun Cleaner, DPF Catalyst Cleaner and DPF Flushing Liquid comes into play. Complementary products for this process include Bluechem’s Oil System Cleaner, Common Rail System Clean and Protect and also Oxicat.

Manny Stamatiou of South Melbourne’s European Automotive Repairs’ says that he is so confident of the ability of the products, that he promises his customers that if he can’t fix it, he won’t charge them.

“I use these products because they work. Over the years I have tested a lot of products and I have had probably only two out of 60 brands that I could use and Bluechem was the only one that stood out that actually worked,” Manny explained.

“They are worth every dollar and I have so much confidence in them that I have no problem putting them in customers’ cars even though we promise that if we don’t fix it, we won’t charge them.

“Those that know how to use the product can be

confident that it will work, it is not a gimmick.

Bluechem knows what they are doing, there is a science behind it and they have got it right.

“Recently I had a customer come in with an Audi A8 – it had always been serviced by the dealership and they had been told they needed a new DPF at a cost of $5,500. I used the DPF Top Gun Cleaner and it regenerated very quickly and came up perfectly for a total cost of around just $450.

“I have had cars come in on tow trucks that will die within 15 seconds of being started – it does take some time, especially if the DPF is completely blocked, but I remove it and give the chemical the opportunity to work, and it does.”

Another trade customer who can’t say enough about Bluechem’s DPF products is Jacques Saba, the owner of Sunshine’s Exceltune in Victoria and a Master Quantum Tuning dealer.

“The Bluechem DPF products are just amazing, they are effective and reach right into the DPF

– we have seen it working for so many cars that were previously unable to be fixed. I absolutely recommend them,” Jacques said.

“The DPF Power Clean and DPF Top Gun Cleaner go hand in hand to force the regeneration of any DPF. “There is a magic to the products and whether we are working on a DPF or some other issues, we trust Neil at Bluechem – he knows the ins and outs of our business, the issues that we face, his products and what they can be used for.

“Bluechem products have saved us from many issues, not only when it comes to cleaning DPFs. “We also recommend the Oil System Cleaner, it has helped us to remove the gunk from many engines, free up slow rotating turbos, clean the strainers and clean the oil pump pick-up without having to remove the sump – it is a beautiful product to use.”

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

COMPACT LED WORK LAMP INCLUDES LATEST TECHNOLOGY Rechargeable LED lamp for the professional workshop user The ultra-slim and compact Hella Nova R is a rechargeable work lamp featuring the latest COB LED technology, which delivers extremely high light output (up to 1500 Lumen) with a uniform and even illumination.

Light output can be adjusted using the built-in light dimmer with five brightness levels.

The Hella Nova R has a sturdy die-cast aluminium housing which is resistant to shocks and vibrations.

The ergonomically designed stand makes the Hella Nova R easy to carry and the position can be adjusted to provide the best lighting angle.

The stand is equipped with powerful integrated magnets for easy mounting onto metal surfaces and is designed to be mounted on the already available Nova Tripod or scaffolding type bracket.

The Hella Nova R also comes with a built-in power bank and USB outlet to charge mobile devices.

The Hella Nova R has further extended the Hella LED hand held specialised lamps family for garages and automotive workshops.

For more information visit www.hella.com.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine October 2019

63

PRODUCTS

GASOLINE DIRECT INJECTION SYSTEMS Direct injection improves combustion efficiency, increases fuel economy and lowers emissions But what does the technician need to know about direct fuel injection fitted to a motor vehicle?

Premier Auto Trade (PAT) explains Gasoline Direct injection (GDI) systems are commonplace in the modern automotive industry.

Just like Electronic Fuel injection (EFI) replaced Carburettors years ago, Direct Injection systems are the new standard says PAT, which states the major advantages of a GDI system is the increased fuel efficiency allowing manufacturers to downsize engines and reduce emission levels.

Like many systems, even modern direct injection parts fail and before working on GDI systems technicians should be aware of the dangers and changing component technology, says PAT. It is common for GDI injectors to be triggered by voltages as high as 120V, and technicians should never disconnect injector connectors during operation, warns PAT. Fuel pressure is another area of caution, as fuel line pressures can be in excess of 200 Bar. Fluid at these pressures can cause serious skin or eye injuries and so procedures outlined by the manufacturer on lowering residual fuel pressure safely should be followed.

GDI Injector information – Bosch HDEV5 The GDI Injector is a multi-hole, electrical magnetic solenoid injector (not Piezo type) that is used on system pressures of up to and exceed 200Bar. This type of injector may be located at the side or centre of the combustion chamber, depending on the crown design of the piston. An average Injector Pulse Width is approx. 0.4µs and the Injector winding resistance cold would be approximately 1.5 ohms.

Direct Injection Pumps (DIP) Direct Injection Pumps are generally driven by the camshaft and may utilise Roller, Follower or Bucket type drives that contacts cam lobe.

Some V configured engines can utilise 2 DIP units, one per bank, and contain an electric pressure regulator solenoid that is controlled by the PCM. Most also contain an internal pressure relief valve.

PAT explains that a “clicking” sound may be audible during operation and utilising a suitable scan tool can assist with verifying if the DIP is functioning correctly.

Premier Auto Trade says its commitment to the aftermarket’s supply requirements has driven the expansion of its GDI components offering, with increases in the GDI Injector and Direct Injection Pumps ranges. The Premier Auto Trade Fuel range also continues to grow, now with 20 GDI injectors covering over 480,000 vehicle applications.

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

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

QUALITY HOSE CLAMPS Tridon has been manufacturing in Australia since 1976 Tridon Australia says it has invested heavily in producing quality hose clamps and that it is proud to be the only manufacturer of hose clamps in Australia.

With more than 40 years of manufacturing expertise, Tridon boasts that it continues to be a 100 percent Australian owned private company Tridon Australia’s manufacturing facility is reportedly ISO9001 quality and ISO14001 environmentally accredited, supplying a wide range of hose clamps to the automotive aftermarket, OEM, industrial, hardware and retail markets.

Those behind the company state that being based in Australia has enabled Tridon to adapt to changing local market conditions.

It says this has resulted in customer specific, custom made hose clamps, designed and manufactured in house – a benefit of local manufacturing.

Hose clamps – small yet vital A hose clamp is a small component performing an extremely important job. The hose clamp 64

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine October 2019

is tasked with performing under pressure and retaining the vehicle’s vital fluids which keep your vehicle running, be they fuel, oil or coolant.

“Market leading” Tridon perforated band hose clamps are available in part stainless, all stainless and 316 construction to satisfy all demands.

In all materials, the flexible band and high quality screw are said to ensure a low free torque for easy installation; while the rolled edges and exact tolerances reportedly make fitting easy, protect each hose and seal “perfectly.”

Tridon says its automotive clamp range is second to none, featuring perforated bands, solid bands and heavy duty T-bolts as well as specialty clamps required by the automotive industry. It also covers what Tridon says is the broadest range

of sizes, ensuring you have the right size to get the job done.

Trade and retail merchandisers are also available to organise and store your clamps, whether it be in a portable grab kit, bench mounted drawer system or a wall mounted display unit – there is a solution for all requirements, says Tridon.

“When you purchase a Tridon product you are supporting Australian manufacturing and ensuring a product that will not let you down.

When it comes to premium quality and an extensive range, we’ve got it covered,” said Tridon.

For further information on the Tridon Clamp range, contact Tridon Australia on 1300 362 263 or visit www.tridon.com.au

PRODUCTS

ADRAD OFFERS MORE People usually associate the name Adrad with radiators but the company offers much more As the country’s largest aftermarket radiator manufacturer and supplier, Adrad’s most wellknown products are radiators, intercoolers, oil coolers and also air conditioning parts.

Now 35 years on, it says its extensive range of replacement parts for Australia’s vehicles is significantly larger.

2019 has seen Adrad’s product range expanding with more categories of replacement parts and products being adopted.

The rate of new products is reportedly at an alltime high and has occurred both from new part numbers being added to existing lines and also from completely new product categories being introduced.

As always, Adrad says it is careful to partner with the world’s best manufacturers to maintain its reputation for high quality parts and excellent after-sales support.

Back in 2013, Adrad launched a new range of high quality, long service life, Australian manufactured coolants and treatments. This year the range has expanded and now features special formulations

designed specifically for European, Korean and Japanese makes.

Filtration is another product category that has seen significant growth recently. To accompany its air conditioning parts, Adrad offers a range of cabin air filters that suits more than half the applicable vehicles on the road – something to keep in mind with plenty of spring pollen and dust around.

As a distributor of FRAM products, Adrad has quality oil filters, fuel filters and air filters available too. These long-lasting filters meet or exceed OE spec and provide excellent value for money, says Adrad.

This year saw the introduction of around 50 new OE and aftermarket blower motors featuring brands like Adair, Valeo and Denso. Adrad says Valeo blowers are fitted as OE parts to one in every three vehicles produced in Europe while Denso blowers are fitted as OE in many Japanese makes.

The Adair blowers are also quality parts which is why the complete blower range is supported by the same Adrad national warranty, it says.

Adrad’s range of water pumps has now grown to

cover over 680 popular vehicle applications and by adding around 60 new fan clutches and fan blades to suit 4x4’s and light commercials has launched yet another product category that they cater for.

2019 has also seen over 240 glow plugs added to Adrad’s product catalogue.

Adrad says this all means that ultimately, vehicle repairers can now source a greater variety of quality parts from their Adrad stockist, stating that “making the process simpler, easier and faster helps workshops to maximise their most valuable resource – time.”

For information about your nearest distributor of Adrad products, call 1800 882 043.

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine October 2019

67

PRODUCTS

DRIVETECH 4X4 TPMS SETS NEW STANDARD Providing peace of mind to 4WDers Drivetech 4x4 says its Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) is an exciting new real-time tyre monitoring system which provides peace of mind to the 4WDer as they can constantly check on their investment as they tour around, both on and off the tracks.

The Drivetech 4x4 TPMS has a solar-powered LCD display and four waterproof external sensors for DIY installation. It is also the first system in Australia, which can be upgraded to six, eight and 10 sensors including two spare tyres, without a booster.

Installation of the Drivetech 4x4 TPMS is as simple as screwing the caps on, putting the solar panel on top of the unit and the unit onto the dash.

The Drivetech 4x4 TPMS helps drivers stay safe via visual and audible alerts when there is tyre air leakage, high tyre temperature, too low or too high tyre pressures and users can also add extra sensors.

For 4WDers, it’s important to maintain the correct pressures when climbing rocky tracks,

68

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine October 2019

driving through muddy trails or sand dunes.

The Drivetech 4x4 TPMS, with its IP67 external sensors can reportedly withstand harsh environments and monitor real-time pressures with an impressive ± 1.5 psi accuracy.

The Drivetech 4x4 TPMS also allows users to customise the high/low pressure alarm threshold by each axle. Users are able to set the low pressure alarm as low as 7psi for especially rough terrains, or change the alarm threshold for an axle taking a heavier load.

The classic mono colour display has a large screen and can be easily read even under direct sunlight. The new generation solar film on top is sensitive and can pick up light sources very well. Once fully charged, the battery lasts for 60 hours.

The external sensor weighs nine grams, and can be easily DIY-installed by the end user without need for wheel rebalancing. Each sensor is also the powered by a replaceable CR1632 button battery.

In addition, the system has four anti-theft lock nuts to provide extra security, and require a

specialised tool to remove it. That tool also reportedly makes changing batteries easy.

Other features of this product include: • Solar panel – eliminating the need to charge the monitor and thus eliminating pesky cables; • Motion detection – when the vehicle is not in use, communication between the sensors and the monitors ceases until motion begins again. This saves battery life in the sensors; and • LCD display – premium/high quality meaning that the display can be read with ease in all light and weather conditions.

For more information, visit www.drivetech4x4.com.au

INNOVATIVE PRODUCTS

2019 AUSTRALIAN AUTO AFTERMARKET INNOVATION AWARDS AAAA Most Innovative New Aftermarket Product – Electrical The competition for the AAAA Most Innovative New Aftermarket Product – Electrical award was exceptionally close.

In this issue, we take a look at the entrants who vied for this award including the winning Projecta Intelli RV Power Management System from Projecta.

For more information about the Australian Auto Aftermarket Awards, please visit www.aftermarketawards.com.au

Projecta: Projecta Intelli RV Power Management System – WINNER The compact and universal install nature of the Intelli-RV system allows users with even basic electrical knowledge to retrofit these products to their own caravan or RV, enjoying the benefits of monitoring and controlling their electricals with functionality previously seen only in proprietary factory systems featured in premium models. The system minimises the electrical footprint and simplifies wiring installation while offering users a true set and forget approach to their electrical system and battery management which can be monitored at a glance and controlled remotely at the touch of a button, or their smart phone. Brown & Watson says currently, no other systems on the market offer as comprehensive a solution as the Intelli-RV range For more information, visit www.projecta.com.au

AECCA trading as Automotive Electrical and 4WD Accessories: KT 50amp, 12-24V DC Power Link The KT 50Amp DC Power Link provides a complete solution to power and monitor devices, acting as a ‘Power Board’ and Digital Multi-Meter for 12V and 24V Devices. It can connect power from one 12V/24V power source to three individual devices. Users can view Volts, Amps, Watts, Battery Percentage and Amp Hours of connected devices via the integrated Smart-Touch LCD Screen and also view statistics both at an individual circuit level or as a complete overview of the total load. The unit also features USB inputs for charging USB devices and can be used for a range of 12V/24V purposes including Fridges/Freezers, Lighting, Satellite TVs, Air Compressors or Charging Phones and Tablets For more information, visit www.ktcables.com.au

Auto Electrical Imports: ICS Switch Panel The ICS panel incorporates eight individual switches rated to 6amps each and has a maximum total system output of 40amps. The system is compatible with 12 and 24volt systems. The switch panel and output module communicate using a proprietary signal which is transmitted via a single three core data line. This allows the switching system to be configured using a single output module for typical applications or expanded with additional slave output modules added for larger systems or vehicles. It also features three user programmable Master switches which can be used to link any combination of the eight individual switches together to allow activation of multiple circuits via the switching of a single button.

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

Davies Craig: Davies Craig Digital Gauge Thermatic Fan/EWP Switch Davies Craig’s range of Thermatic Electric Cooling Fans, Electric Water Pumps, Booster Pumps and Transmission Oil Coolers requires a flexible and innovative switch for managing the various functions at the required temperature. The new Digital Gauge Fan/EWP Switch (Part #0500) offers state-of-the-art features and improved functionality over the current switches in the Davies Craig range. The 52mm gauge design and supplied mounting case allows for easy installation inside the driver compartment. The digital temperature readout and convenient push-button controls allow you to quickly and accurately set independent target temperatures for the automatic activation of Thermatic Fan #1 and Fan #2. The flexibility of the switch allows it to not only control fans but also an Electric Water Pump and/or Electric Booster Pump at your desired temperature.

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

Digital Pulse Systems: ANBI Switch Battery Isolator There’s nothing more frustrating than a flat battery. The ANBI Switch Negative Battery Terminal Isolator is a simple, easy to install and cost-effective solution, designed to help your customers avoid this common problem.

Suitable for a broad range of applications including automotive, marine, caravans, motorcycles, agricultural and industrial equipment, Digital Pulse Systems says stocking the ANBI Switch provides automotive workshops with an additional source of revenue that will improve profitability and increase customer satisfaction. The ANBI Battery Switch eliminates drainage of stored power by isolating the battery from power-hungry components like clocks, and general energy leakage. Installation is quick and easy and can be completed in less than 15 minutes.

For more information, visit www.anbiswitch.com.au 72

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine October 2019

INNOVATIVE PRODUCTS Hella: Hella Nova R Work Lamp The ultra-slim and compact Hella Nova R is a rechargeable work lamp featuring the latest COB LED technology which delivers extremely high light output (up to 1500 Lumen) with a uniform and even illumination. The light output can be adjusted using the built-in light dimmer with five brightness levels. The work lamp has a sturdy die-cast aluminium housing which is resistant to shocks and vibrations and is equipped with powerful integrated magnets for easy mounting onto metal surfaces. It also comes with a built-in power bank and USB outlet to charge mobile devices, has a battery-life indicator, is water resistant and is rechargeable.

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

Hella: Hella RokLUME 190 TP LED The Hella RokLUME 190 TP LED is a compact size LED work lamp developed specifically for heavy duty applications. The light features a light weight, thermally conductive plastic housing. Together with weight reduction, the new material also offers the advantage of complete corrosion resistance. The cooling fins of the housing ensure the heat generated by the six high-power LEDs can be dissipated to generate an impressive 1850 Lumen light output. This output is distributed by a specially developed multi-faceted reflector, thus ensuring homogenous illumination. Models with varying cover lenses lend themselves either for close-range or long-range illumination, as required.

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

Hummingbird Electronics: 16 Channel Audio Alert Modern day commercial vehicles contain a vast array of safety systems. These systems have associated lights and buzzers to alert operators of a warning or alarm situation. Quite often it is not clear what they signify and this can mean these warnings are ignored which increases the possibility of vehicle damage or at worst, injury or death to operators and/or passengers. The Audio Alert System replaces the buzzers and lights found on dashboards with a single clear verbal alert of a current fault or alarm condition and the actions which need to be taken. The customisable system has 16 prioritised inputs, each of which triggers an audio file in response to a change of state.

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

ProQuip: Pertronix Digital HP Mobile Ignition Box The new Digital HP Mobile Ignition Box from Pertronix maintains ultra-small form factor while being packed with more power and features and now with the added flexibility of Bluetooth wireless technology. The easy to use app sets your three rev limits, shift light, start retard, spark settings and tachometer preferences and you can save and load multiple settings for quick change between Street and Strip modes. User selectable themes for the tach face and app appearance are available. Also featured are robust one touch security modes, allowing the user to set the ignition system into a valet mode with reduced rev limit or completely secure the vehicle by disabling start.

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

Redarc Electronics: RedVision RedVision is a central hub which connects electrical devices and displays vital information for a vehicle or RV and its on-board 12V accessories for an “unprecedented level of automation” in the 4WD and RV industry.

RedVision allows the user to turn devices on or off from a dedicated display and smartphone RedVision app – removing the need for multiple switch panels, which in turn allows for more storage space. It also allows the monitoring of six water levels, two temperature levels such as ambient or fridge temperature, and auxiliary battery usage and charging information when paired with a Manager30 or Manager15. It can also be programmed to control multiple devices automatically.

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

Supercheap Auto: SCA 12V 1200 Amp Compact Jump Starter Designed to be extremely user friendly, this innovative and light weight compact jump starter removes many of the dangerous aspects that come with using a traditional jump starter. The safety features included make it easy to connect to the battery terminals, switch the unit on, and start the car. If connected incorrectly, an alarm will sound to alert the user to check the connections. Safety features include an inbuilt short circuit, reverse polarity, over temperature cut-off, overload protection and a 24V connection cut-off. The jump starter also features an LED emergency light, 5V/2.4A USB output, low battery warning, 3 stage battery charger and a fast output AGM battery.

For more information, visit www.supercheapauto.com.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine October 2019

73

MEMBER FEATURE

DREAMING BIG AND GROWING FAST In less than 25 years, Unique Auto Parts has developed from a mechanical workshop specialising in Mercedes Benz to a major player in the car parts space It began with a dream to build a successful automotive repair workshop specialising in Mercedes Benz vehicles, but passion and dedication drove Unique Auto Parts (UAP) to a thriving parts business in just over two decades.

“The company started in 1995 as a three bay mechanical workshop and we purchased Mercwreck and Volksparts in 1998 and started supplying second-hand parts for Mercedes and VWs in addition to running the workshop,” Unique Auto Parts Owner, Joe Fahad, explains.

“In the early 2000s we purchased OK Imports and branched into importing new parts. Within 12 months we signed an exclusive deal with the JP group (which is still existing to date).”

The need for more space was soon a necessity so the organisation moved and established its head office in its current location in Dandenong. But the rapid growth of the business was far from over.

“In late 2000 we purchased Mr Bug and expanded our offerings to include VW parts. We also became a Capricorn preferred supplier, we started importing products from (German parts manufacturer) Meyle and officially began trading as Unique Auto Parts,” Joe continues.

In 2008, UAP opened its first interstate branch in Slacks Creek, Queensland. This branch was moved to a significantly larger location in 2013 around the same time UAP opened a branch on the Mornington Peninsula in Victoria.

“Since then we have added parts to suit more European makes as well as signing exclusive deals to be able to supply parts from Quinton Hazell, Trucktec and Carlube Oil. Other wellknown brands we have added to our inventory in recent years are Victor Reinz , Hella, Bosch and SKF,” Joe enthuses.

UAP opened a branch in Heidelberg Victoria in 2014 which services Melbourne’s northern suburbs which was soon followed by a second interstate store in Beckenham WA, which was established in 2018. Now with five stores, the fledgling business employs more than 25 staff members nationally.

UAP’s main product lines include new replacement parts to suit Mercedes Benz, BMW, Volkswagen, Mini, Audi, Seat, Skoda, Peugeot, Renault, Citroen, Porsche and Volvo.

74

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine October 2019

“This will grow to include all European makes comprising of Alfa, Fiat and Range Rover,” Joe says.

“This incorporates a full range of filters, mechanical parts, brake components, suspension and steering components, cooling and exhaust systems, gaskets and seals, electrical, and oils and lubricants.

“Brands in stock include international names such as JP Group, QH, Trucktec, Hella, Bosch, SKF, Victor Reinz, Carlube, and our newest brands BBR and Zimmerman.”

UAP has a customer-first policy and services its growing clientele via its network of warehouses around the country.

“We have a delivery service available for local customers from all five warehouses located in Melbourne, Brisbane and Perth. We also ship freight Australia wide on a daily basis and internationally if required,” Joe explains.

“We supply both trade and retail customers. We also have a large number of Capricorn customers having been Capricorn preferred suppliers for over 12 years.”

Joe says that keeping control of UAP’s own distribution chain is central to the businesses strategy that sets it apart from its competition.

“We have our own fleet of delivery vehicles that come and go from our warehouses continuously which makes our delivery times more flexible.

MEMBER FEATURE Having our own fleet means we don’t rely on external courier companies and can plan and modify delivery runs as needed. Currently we have 12 delivery vehicles on the road,” Joe explains.

The business really took off when the evaluation was made to become a parts supplier and to move away from vehicle repairs.

“The biggest decision that made the company what it is today was when we decided to devote 100 percent of our energy into sourcing new parts. This decision came about after we ourselves had difficulty sourcing replacement parts within Australia that were not only good quality but at a reasonable price,” Joe says.

“We have travelled all over the world meeting with international suppliers, visiting their warehouses and manufacturing facilities and getting to know them on a more personal level. This is how we know we are only importing the best quality parts.”

It is this first-hand experience that Joe believes gives UAP a major competitive advantage.

“As the owner of the company and a certified Mercedez Benz mechanic, I understand what customers really need having run a workshop before. All our phone staff also come from mechanical backgrounds,” Joe says.

“We have an extensive range of parts for classic air cooled VWs, and classic Porsche models as well as one of the largest ranges for late model and commercial vehicles.”

However, UAP is far from resting on its laurels with a desire to continue to improve the business in every way possible.

“With every shipment that comes in we are constantly growing our range of parts and the aim is to stock everything from the smallest O-ring to major replacement parts. We are also working towards expanding our product lines to include

all European makes of passenger and commercial vehicles including Fiat, Alfa Romeo, and Range Rover,” Joe says.

“We are also expanding our range of oil and car care products to include everything needed

to keep vehicles looking and running in peak condition. This will include oils and lubricants to suit all models and products to clean and protect both vehicle interiors and exteriors.

“We are also continuously looking for ways to provide better service for our customers.”

UAP is a member of the AAAA and Joe says that the services and information that the Association provides has been a major assistance to the continued growth of the business.

“We like to align ourselves with people who share the same values and we like what AAAA stands for and what it is trying to achieve for the auto industry,” Joe explains.

“We have a place to go for expert advice specific to the auto aftermarket and are always kept up to date with the latest industry information.

“We also benefit from the network opportunities at tradeshows and the chance to advertise in Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine.”

For more from Unique Auto Parts, please visit www.uniqueautoparts.com.au

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine October 2019

75

SPECIAL FEATURE

CASTING FORWARD TO THE ‘DRIVERLESS’ REVOLUTION

The race towards autonomous cars has cost trillions of dollars and led to substantial developments in AI technology. But as AutoMate’s Harrison Boudakin reports in this article, there is a critical human factor in the development of driverless vehicles that merits a closer look Modern man is obsessed with designing himself into obsolescence, and in the race to build the first truly driverless car, we have surely found the greatest expression of that fascination. In fact, there can be little doubt: in this second automotive century, the new engineering nirvana is the prospect of eliminating the fleshy, flawed humanoid behind the wheel – and those with the means will stop at nothing to reach this technological peak.

Quite how many trillions have been devoted to this Sisyphean task we cannot be sure, but what we can record is the sheer pace of the advancement in recent years, as automakers and tech-companies alike have staked out their territorial claims deep in the heartland of our automotive future.

76

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine October 2019

The result is that we now live in the age of the ‘thinking’ car, where the old mechanical art of engineering has been positively spiked with lashings of supercomputing and the crunch of hard data. Complex driver assistance technologies can now be found right at the very bottom of the automotive food chain; meanwhile, apex predators like Mercedes’ S-Class blaze new trails with their increasingly capable ‘autopilot’ systems.

But there can also be no doubt that the road to full autonomy is littered with an innumerable array of obstacles. To give a car complete and unfettered control over its own movement, in every situation, requires still a profound technological leap from where we are right now. And what’s particularly interesting – though not often discussed – is

the fact that this leap is going to require rather a lot more human labour than you might have imagined.

As much is apparent when it comes to mapping; specifically, the development of the 3D maps and imagery that help a driverless car locate itself in the world. We may have made enormous advances in sensor technology and artificial intelligence, but the fact remains that a driverless car needs to do more than just react to what it sees; it actually needs to be able to anticipate things too, so creating detailed maps and images of our roads is a task many companies are now focused on.

At present, numerous mapping companies – such as the Nokia subsidiary, HERE – employ fleets of vehicles equipped with scanning lasers and cameras, which are then driven by people all over the world to capture and record HD imagery.

But while these companies have logged millions of kilometres already, they face an uphill battle – not only does this effort require an enormous application of human labour and time, it’s also somewhat futile, because roads are incredibly dynamic spaces. You may map a street once, only to find that one week later, the image you generated is no longer accurate.

In response to this conundrum, one of the leading suppliers of obstacle-detection software, Mobileye, is working on an industry collaboration to begin ‘crowdsourcing’ map data. Mobileye is planning to harvest recorded images from the 15 million vehicles on the road that are already equipped with their semi-autonomous software and hardware.

Mobileye’s parent company, Intel, will then use its expertise in high-speed computing to create a 5G ‘data pipeline’, before fusing the footage with maps already generated by HERE. Eventually, this constantly-updated stream of data will find its way into autonomous cars made by companies such as BMW and FiatChrysler.

Now this all sounds wonderful, but again, there is a key, ‘human’ step in this process that is often overlooked, and yet extremely important.

SPECIAL FEATURE You see, you can feed an autonomous car with as much data as you want, but it’s essentially useless if the machine isn’t told exactly what to do with that data. Machines don’t know what we know, so it’s up to us to actually “train” them in the art of driving. And that means that right now, companies working on this technology must employ thousands of people to sit in front of computer screens and “annotate” all of the video footage they’ve gathered.

This process – usually outsourced to China and India – is remarkably archaic by the standards of Silicon Valley, given that the imagery must be analysed frame-by-frame, with human operators adding “notes” to define all the objects that fall within the camera’s scope of vision.

As a result, every hour of image data generated by a car’s camera can equate to hundreds of hours of human labour, which of course is blindingly expensive. Some estimates suggest that the cost of creating maps for every city in the US alone will run into the tens of billions of dollars.

Given how limiting this current system is, a number of start-up companies are turning to something called “deep learning”: a new type of machine ‘training’ that essentially allows the computer to teach itself, in much the same way that the human brain does. But this technology is incredibly nascent and has not yet proven itself capable of dealing with the challenging data scenarios thrown up by autonomous cars.

So, until this tech is perfected, we are stuck with a cumbersome, slow and expensive process of manual annotation. No wonder this is a sore point for all the big players in the autonomous game – clearly, the idea that they are relying so completely on a small army of low-paid, offshore data crunchers to build their systems, hardly befits the cutting-edge image they’d like to cultivate.

All this, however, sates an interesting thought.

Arthur C. Clarke once said that any sufficiently advanced technology is indistinguishable from magic, and for modern man, the prospect of the autonomous car has always had this quality. Not

only has this kept the public hooked on the idea for decades, but it’s also what continues to make this industry such a source of fascination for investors too.

But as we have seen, the cold, hard reality is that the current generation of driverless vehicles are not actually that magical at all – instead, they remain products of a deeply ‘human’ endeavour.

Sure, we may like to think we have advanced computing to the point where the human mind is redundant, but as we can see, this is simply not the case.

More than anything else then, this proves one

thing: that the soft, fleshy, grey bit between our ears is just too advanced for us to be getting rid of any time soon.

AutoMate Training is a world-leading provider of online, videobased technical training, with over 400 modules featuring high-quality graphics, the latest vehicles and real presenters.

The AutoMate library covers everything from system fundamentals to advanced diagnostics and technology, including training on Advanced Driver Assist systems.

Subscribe today for only $33 per month for professional techs and just $9.90 for trainees.

Visit www.automatetraining.com for a free trial.

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine October 2019

77

TOWING & FRONTAL PROTECTION

YOUR OWN PORTABLE WEIGHBRIDGE Checking your caravan weights has never been easier, says Intertrade Intertrade’s v2 Towsafe Portable Wheel Load Scales let you have your own “portable weighbridge” to ensure all towing weights are within their specified limits.

Intertrade, a West Australian company, explains it was the first to develop a DIY Tow Ball Weight Scale which was suitable for the Australian market back in 2013. This product was marketed under the TOWSAFE brand.

“We saw the opportunity to develop a low cost weighing scale that could not only weigh the Tow Ball weight, but also the ATM (aggregate trailer mass) of a fully loaded caravan,” Intertrade Director, Steve Nicholson, said.

“After a further two years of R & D, we finally introduced our first low cost portable platform weighing scale. These scales were highly sought after, we had sold out numerous times as they were affordable, light weight and extremely accurate.

“During the past 12 months we have been

developing and testing our new v2 model which has just arrived. This v2 model comes with front and rear ramps, a longer LCD display time to give you more time to take the measurements and also has four times more load cells which gives improved accuracy.

“Full scale the accuracy is at 0.5 percent, which is attainable when used on a level, flat surface.

The Towsafe platform scale uses the Static (Drive onto) weighing principle which has a far greater accuracy than other Dynamic (Drive over) scales on the market.”

Included with the scales is a two-direction spirit level to assist in ensuring your weighing site is level. The TOWSAFE Portable Wheel Load Scales has been tested to conform to the Australian and International standard ISO/IEC 17025:2005.

“Gone are the days when you had to travel miles and fork out hard earned money at a weighbridge or use a bathroom scale, planks of wood and bricks to ensure your maximum towing weights were not exceeded,” Steve said.

such as swaying, loss of traction or lack of steering control. You can risk your safety and the safety of others on the road and it is also illegal to have an overloaded trailer or caravan.”

The scale is constructed from aluminium and stainless steel, with an LCD back lit readout. The aluminium platform measures 305mm x 305mm and has a capacity of 1500kg per wheel. This allows you to weigh a single axle van up to 3000kg, or a twin axle van up to 6000kg. With the platform height being only 19mm, even though the scales are low profile it is suggested to use levelling pads to achieve maximum accuracy.

“The V2 Towsafe Portable Wheel Load Scales are affordable, easy to use, portable and accurate for weighing your towing vehicle and also your towed vehicle.

Intertrade says using the scales is as simple as switching the scale on and driving the van or vehicle onto the platform. The reading from each wheel is then added together, giving you the vehicle or van’s GTM. To obtain a van’s ATM, you simply rest the jockey wheel on the scale and add this reading to the GTM total.

“Knowing your towing weights is critical, especially when you are loading up or adding additional weight to your towing vehicle or van.

This Scale can also be used in the vehicle racing industry to set up the car’s suspension and also for weighing vehicles after a GVM upgrade.

“Being overloaded or having incorrect load distribution can have dangerous consequences,

For more information, email info@misterhitches.com.au or visit www.misterhitches.com.au

PROTECT YOUR JIMNY 1.5I Outback Accessories Australia has a range of products for this 4WD pocket rocket If you are lucky enough to have gotten your hands on an exceptionally popular new Suzuki Jimny 1.5i or perhaps have your name on the waiting list, Outback Accessories Australia says you definitely want to check out the new products it has available.

Outback Accessories Australia says it is Western Australia’s leading 4WD product manufacturer and that its offering of new protection bars and rock sliders for the Suzuki Jimny are perfect for this 4WD pocket rocket.

If you are looking for the peace of mind of full protection of headlights as well as the front of your vehicle, it says you should look no further than its stylish winch compatible bull bar which retains the original fog lights and headlight squirters.

With added indicators for ADR compliance and 78

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine October 2019

mounting points for an aerial and spotlights or LED light bars, it says it has got all you need and at RRP $1425 “it’s a great deal.”

If your preference is for a lighter bar which still offers great protection, then Outback Accessories Australia says the Xrox bar is the one for you.

This great looking bar gives you added clearance but still has mounting points for all your offroad gear and is winch compatible. It is also available without the centre hoop.

At RRP $1320 it is “true value for your hard earned dollars,” says Outback Accessories Australia.

You can also team either of these bars up with a set of offroad-tough rock sliders to protect your vehicle sill to be ready for all of your 4WD adventures (rock sliders RRP: $995).

Outback Accessories Australia’s steel-tough 4WD products are said to be rugged and reliable and are still 100 percent Australian made.

Products are available through your local Opposite Lock Store as well as through a wide range of stockists country wide.

For a full list of outlets, please visit www.outbackaccessories.com.au *Sorry no factory-direct sales

TOWING & FRONTAL PROTECTION

SAFETY FIRST FOR SUPERPRO Suspension kits add stability which can improve the overall handling experience, especially while carrying loads and towing According to SuperPro, many factory vehicles have poor handling characteristics, especially with regards to understeer and roll resistance. The company says the factory suspension set-up was never designed to control anything other than a standard vehicle at standard ride height.

The SuperPro RC0009RZ and RC0016RZ can be supplied in two diameters and has in-built adjustability into each bar, providing the customer with ample options to customise their ride to their desired needs.

SuperPro says this product line successfully creates preferred handling performance on and off road, reduces chassis roll, increases durability, and provides a higher level of safety with no loss of comfort. These benefits are particularly useful for vehicles carrying loads and towing and SuperPro says it is proud it can supply a cost effective, aesthetically pleasing, technically desirable design to customers.

Fitting larger sway bars, particularly in the rear, has two main effects: vehicle balance in terms of understeer and oversteer, and increased roll resistance. Both effects can provide increased overall handling and safety benefits in a 4WD vehicle.

A larger rear sway bar, or the addition of a rear sway bar, helps in providing more neutral characteristics in the handling. This is due to the increase in roll

stiffness at the rear, which changes the loading of the rear wheels under conditions of increased cornering load.

A positive effect of introducing a larger rear bar is the reduction in chassis roll. This reduces the effects of “roll camber” – the variation in the wheel and tyre camber setting due to chassis roll. During cornering, the presence of chassis roll usually results in the outside wheels gaining positive camber. By increasing the roll stiffness and reducing the roll camber effect, the wheel and tyre combination stays closer to its optimal setting, explains SuperPro. The Ford Ranger and Isuzu D-max factory vehicles are not supplied with Rear Sway bars at all, thus supplying the customer with no option to correct the handling and safety issues when they are lifted and loaded. For this reason, SuperPro has designed a heavy-duty rear sway bar and fitment kit with in-built adjustability to meet the needs for all customers.

SuperPro says the fitment kit for RC0016RZ is uniquely developed to fit the sway bar to chassis frame securely without having to alter any OE components.

Unlike the RC00016RZ, the RC0009RZ is unable to be mounted to the leaf spring pack, therefore SuperPro has developed an additional innovative solution to mount to the rear differential: a D-Bush and Bracket which can be used to mount directly to the already existing flat plate on differential tube itself.

All the bushes that are provided with the Sway Bar are made from Polyurethane. SuperPro’s Polyurethane is an innovative advanced Elastomer Formulation that provides high temperature resistance and excellent anti-sag properties.

This is a material that allows for all the critical attributes of Noise, Vibration, Harshness, Ride, Handling and Durability to be attained.

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

NEW FROM MAX 4X4 ACCESSORIES New generation MAX GEN II Bull Bar, Side Rails and Steps have been released MAX 4x4 Accessories is now three years old and was created to fulfil a need to provide the independent 4x4 Accessory Retailer with a quality bar product, which could be made available to them at wholesale pricing.

It has an ever-expanding range of bars to suit the 4x4 dual cab, utility and SUV segment of the Australian market.

Initially producing the MAX Icon Bull Bar, Rear Step Tube Bar, Side Steps and Side Rails, which it says hit the Australian market and never stopped; MAX 4x4 Accessories has now introduced its new generation winch compatible MAX GEN II Bull Bar, Side Rails and Side Steps, which it says are turning heads.

Designed and tested in Australia, the MAX GEN II Bull Bar reportedly has all the strength and versatility customers have come to expect from a MAX product, now including strengthened, relocated and independently rated (4,000kg) tow

hooks, new LED combination lights including daytime running lights, slotted aerial tabs, comprehensive easy to follow instructions, stylish embossed overriders and with the option to include the latest MAX LED fog lights.

Every GEN II Bull bar is independently tested and certified to ensure they meet all relevant ADRs and Australian standards, explains MAX 4x4 Accessories.

Development of this new range has been made possible by a strong partnership with All Terrain Design, an Australian designer of four-wheel drive accessories. Using the latest in 3D Scanning equipment and CAD Development software, the companies say they have been able to design a bar that not only complements the style of the vehicle, but also includes all the features the 4WD market demands.

Whether you’re going on an outback adventure or hitting the beach for a weekend, MAX 4x4

Accessories says protection is essential for you and your family. It says it is proud of its strict development and testing expectations and the fact it is continually pushing to ensure you are provided with a quality product that looks great.

For more information, visit www.max4x4.com.au or www.allterraindesign.com You can also follow MAX 4x4 Accessories on Facebook and Instagram.

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine October 2019

81

TOWING & FRONTAL PROTECTION

NEW TAG TOWBARS CELEBRATING 25 YEARS OF RAV4 New Heavy Duty Three-Piece Towbars and Extended Towbars released TAG Towbars has been engineering and manufacturing towbars and towing accessories for over 35 years and has recently released its new Heavy Duty Three-Piece Towbars and Extended Towbars.

The TAG Heavy Duty Three-Piece Towbar has been engineered to maintain the strength and ADR compliance of a single-piece towbar while allowing a quicker and easier one-person installation. It features a two-stage prime and powder coated finish for maximum durability and a plug bracket with provisions for two x Anderson Plugs.

ECB says that when it comes to protecting the RAV4, it is the original and still the best The Toyota RAV4 is celebrating its 25th birthday this year. Credited as the first compact crossover SUV, the RAV4 became an innovator that other vehicle manufacturers mimicked to create an emerging auto segment that has gone on to surpass passenger car sales in Australia.

From the very first Toyota RAV4 released in Australia back in 1994, through to the latest first release Hybrid RAV4, ECB says it has supplied frontal protection products to this growing market segment.

Only the badge of the first-generation remains but the RAV4 has transformed into a larger bodied, more capable stable platform that can venture to most places and is fast becoming commonplace in regional and rural areas.

With the release of the Second Generation in 2000, ECB says it increased the product offerings to include its Series 2 Nudge Bar and Type 8 Bar. As the popularity of this model grew, so did the interest in protecting the front of the vehicle.

The TAG Extended Towbar is designed to maintain the towing capacity and strength of a standard towbar on extra and dual cabs with trays/service bodies. Where previously owners would install an extended hitch receiver, this would significantly reduce the vehicle’s tow rating. The TAG Extended Towbar instead uses reinforced extended sidearms to bring the tow ball out to the rear of the vehicle while maintaining the maximum towing capacity (up to 3500kg/350kg).

Located in Brisbane, TAG Towbars has warehouses in Townsville, Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide and Perth. TAG products are available from parent company SWD (formerly Proex Automotive and Spareco) and Authorised TAG Distributors.

All new TAG towbars are tested with FEA Simulation/Analysis and Static Bench Test to meet AS4177.

The TAG Towing Group says it is a rapidly expanding Distribution, Reseller and Installation group of like-minded independent businesspeople.

For information about joining the group, email the team at stockists@tagtowing.com.au or to open a trading account with SWD, apply online at www.swd.com.au For more visit www.tagtowbars.com.au 82

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine October 2019

In 2005, Toyota released its third generation, but the biggest change came in 2008 when the third generation was given a facelift and the RAV4 became the first medium SUV which ECB designed and built a Bullbar for – manufactured with the same material and DNA the company says it uses “for the Land Cruiser to be Lighter, Stronger, Better!”

In June 2019, Toyota released the fifth Generation RAV4 and again ECB says it had a full line of product to suit the GX, GXL, Cruiser, Edge, and the Hybrid variant, with product including its 76mm Nudge Bar, Type 2 Nudge bar, and Big Tube Bar all compatible with the tech pack (AEB, 360 degree camera and so on) ECB says it is committed to the growing category, producing frontal protection for all small to medium SUVs and explains it was the first

bullbar manufacturer to design and sell frontal protection products to suit the RAV4 Hybrid in Australia.

Not all frontal protection products are created equally, warns ECB. “Our superior ECB Big Tube Bar offers the greatest protection from animal strikes or collisions using a single piece, fully welded, 6mm Hi-Tensile alloy channel and tubes, created from an industry leading tube wall thickness welded by hand to create the strongest possible structure out to the wings where the majority of animal strikes occur,” ECB Executive Sales Manager, Gaven Paterson, said.

“Even our 76mm Nudge Bar and Series 2 Nudge Bar can help you protect the vulnerable parts of the vehicle to help you reach your destination safely.”

The Toyota RAV4 is the highest selling SUV in Australia with over 2,000 sold each month and sales are up 8.3 percent year on year according to V-FACTS*.

Recently announced as the CarsGuide 2019 Vehicle of the Year and 2019 Family Vehicle of the Year, the Toyota RAV4 is popular in all regions of Australia, and for good reason, says ECB, which explains the RAV4’s tech pack includes features normally only found on larger more expensive vehicles to achieve an ANCAP 5-star safety rating.

“Every product ECB manufactures is 100 percent Air Bag Compatible, ADR Compliant, and will never detract from the vehicle or any OEM safety features. This offers peace of mind knowing your family is protected in Australia’s bestselling SUV,” Gaven said.

“With over 25 years of frontal protection to suit the RAV4, ECB has defined frontal protection to fit small to medium SUVs. “With the addition of frontal protection to suit the RAV4 Hybrid, our first hybrid vehicle, ECB has adapted and changed with the vehicle over its 25 years on Australia’s roads. This is why ECB is the original and still the best!”

For more from ECB, visit www.ecb.com.au *as of August, 2019.

TOWING & FRONTAL PROTECTION

INNOVATION SUPASHOCKS FOR X-BAR Hayman Reese claims its X-Bar sets new SUPER TOWING standards in towing EXPERIENCE Developed in Adelaide and distributed by Drivetech4x4 Drivetech 4x4 Supashock dampers are designed, manufactured and assembled to stringent Automotive OEM and defence standards.

Indeed, Drivetech 4x4 says the product has been developed to the highest level, providing “unsurpassed durability and performance.”

The Hayman Reese X-Bar is a fully ADR compliant towbar featuring three highly-visible 8,000 kg rated recovery points and increased clearance for maximum departure angles, wrapped-up in a class leading design.

According to Hayman Reese, when compared to existing OE and aftermarket towbars, X-Bar provides improved clearance and departure angles as it’s mounted higher and neater into the vehicle’s chassis. This also reinforces a key structural part of the vehicle.

To meet ADR requirements for tow ball height, the X-Bar features a custom-forged Trailer Ball Mount (TBM) made from 700-grade steel. The TBM is longer and stronger to accommodate the additional height challenges on vehicles with suspension lift kits. The custom-forged TBM is also removable for additional clearance.

Dan Everett from the Red Dirt Diary claims that the Drivetech 4x4 Supashock makes towing a breeze.

“Travelling this country the last few years has taught me a lot of hard lessons and that the gear under your 4WD is almost as important as where you take it,” Dan said.

“I just can’t rate highly enough Drivetech 4x4’s Supashock range. We’ve put them through hell and back, and they just keep kicking.

“A big part of that is their wide tuning window, making them ideal for varying loads. From the worksite to the campsite, or towing a caravan or a camper trailers, the ride’s always silky smooth.

“They run a huge internal oil reservoir too which makes them unbelievably simple to install, with no hoses or canisters to mount or get damaged off-road.”

Drivetech 4x4 says the dampers operate unlike any other product on the market; and feature world leading technology that provides the owner with off-road capability not available anywhere else.

Drivetech 4x4 Supashock Dampers are designed with automotive, mining and defence expertise; manufactured from aerospace and defence grade materials; and assembled and tested in a world class facility, all under one roof in Adelaide (SA).

Drivetech 4x4 says its Supashock suspension lift kits combine the expertise and experience of Supashock and Drivetech 4x4 in the development and production of vehicle specific kits that deliver ultimate ride quality and performance.

For more information visit www.drivetech4x4.com.au 84

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine October 2019

Recovery rated to 8000 kg, Hayman Reese says the X-Bar completes the missing link in rated vehicle recovery requirements. It says other towbars are designed and tested exclusively with trailer and caravan towing in mind; and although commonly used as a solid fixing point for snatch strap recovery, they are not designed with the related stresses imposed when used to extract a bogged vehicle in mind. The X-Bar features two side recovery points rated to 4,000 kg and a centre recovery point rated to 8,000 kg.

During development, product design was a leading criterion. Cab-chassis vehicles are particularly challenging from a design perspective as there are significant differences between vehicles and the plethora of rear of vehicle storage solutions. Hayman Reese says the X-Bar design is rugged, purposeful and practical while the rated recovery points are highly visible and coloured red for contrast and to meet consumer expectations.

The core innovation behind X-Bar is it brings

together three separate aftermarket solutions in one product for cab-chassis vehicles: 1) towbar, 2) rated recovery points for the rear of vehicle, and; 3) body styling. Prior to the X-Bar range, such a product range didn’t exist, says Hayman Reese.

The X-Bar incorporates a number of innovative design element, including recessed mounting points for trailer socket and Anderson plug wiring to help protect against accidental damage; a removable and replaceable ‘bash plate’ which helps protect the underside of the X-Bar; and the Hayman Reese anti-rattle SmartPin, which reduces annoying TBM rattle.

The X-Bar product concept consists of side plates, a cross section and recovery point mounting plates. By using a modular approach, fewer common components can be utilised across multiple vehicle fitments. Hayman Reese says the innovative design enables fewer welding jigs and manufacturing tooling – which is perfectly suited for a high-cost, low-volume market such as Australia, which demands manufacturing flexibility.

Added strength also brings added weight, which in a single-piece assembly can create complications. By using a three-piece design, installers can assemble the X-Bar product in multiple stages, decreasing installation and reducing OH&S risks while an added benefit can be found in the fact that a three-piece design accommodates the chassis variability found in these vehicles.

Hayman Reese says multiple design innovations are recognised in the Australian innovation Patent for X-Bar. For more information, visit www.haymanreese.com.au

TOWING & FRONTAL PROTECTION

PARTNERING FOR SAFETY Both on and off our roads MSA 4X4 says it is committed to the safety of its customers and that from its rigorous crash testing to its ADR compliancy, it is confident its products are as safe as they can be.

‘Outback Rules of the Road,’ and basic roadsharing tips which all contribute to helping to improve the safety and experience of all road users.”

With the introduction of its new MSA 4X4 Towing Mirrors, MSA 4x4 has taken the next step and partnered with Driver Training Course Providers to help properly equip customers with the knowledge and skills to safely tow their caravans, camper trailers, boats and trailers.

Vic Widman from long established 4WD training organisation Great Divide Tours applauded MSA’s approach to assist people with driver training.

Included with every MSA 4X4 Towing Mirror is a mirror hanger, which includes a special offer of 10 percent off driver training courses from participating providers. You can visit www.msa4x4. com.au/drivertraining for more information.

“This is a great initiative to provide even more incentive for people to consider driver training courses to gain critical knowledge and experience for when towing,” The Australian Offroad Academy Founder, Director and Principal Instructor, Dave ‘Dingo’ Darmody, said.

“Whilst the courses will help with towing-specific information, additional topics we cover include

“Being part of this initiative was a no brainer – more and more people are getting into the 4WD travel field, especially as our population grows older and as our young families realise there are huge benefits to doing the Big Lap with the family,” Vic said.

“But driving a four wheel drive and towing an off road trailer or van, does require a whole new set of driving skills. With over 30 years of training and tagalong tour experience under our belt and what many consider the best 4WD training centre in Australia, Great Divide Tours is more than happy to be part of this fantastic initiative”.

“This initiative ties in perfectly with who we are here at MSA 4X4,” MSA 4x4 Director, Shane Miles, said.

“Safety is at the forefront of what we do. If I wouldn’t install a product into my vehicle with my family in it, then I don’t expect our customers to either.

“MSA 4X4 customers invest in quality products for their vehicles and when it comes to towing, we believe that an investment in the skills to safely tow is priceless for all road users and our families. If this initiative saves one accident, then it’s been worthwhile” MSA 4x4 states it is working hard to be able to offer participating driver training courses right around Australia, so if you are a provider or can recommend a provider who may be interested in joining in this initiative, please contact MSA 4X4 via www.msa4x4.com.au or sales@msa4x4.com.au

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine October 2019

85

TOWING & FRONTAL PROTECTION

UNRIVALLED PROTECTION FOR YOUR 4X4 The Drivetech 4x4 Bumper by Rival is proving popular, says the company Drivetech 4x4 says its partnership with Russian manufacturer, Rival Automotive Accessories, has resulted in an innovative range of quality products for the Australian and New Zealand 4WDing market.

It explains that the “extremely popular” range of Drivetech 4x4 Bumpers by Rival are made from 6mm alloy and provide an excellent amount of strength and protection without the disadvantages of a heavy steel bar.

Designed for ease of installation, these Bumpers include integrated recovery points, LED fog lights, built-in tow hooks, high lift jack slots, winch mount and easy winch access.

Stylish and functional, these bars feature high quality hand welds, come in a matte wrinkle style black finish and are designed for ease of fitment with, or without, Drivetech 4x4 Underbody Armour by Rival. These Bumpers have been independently tested to ensure ADR69 compliance and airbag compatibility.

With widespread market acceptance of this cutting edge product, Drivetech 4x4 says its team is continuing to release new applications for the Drivetech 4x4 Bumper by Rival. The range includes Bumpers to suit the Ford Ranger PX Series, Ford Everest, Toyota Hilux GUN / KUN, Mitsubishi Triton MQ, Nissan Navara NP300,

Volkswagen Amarok, and more recently, the Toyota Landcruiser 200 and Prado 150 Series.

In addition to the Front Bumpers, other vehicle protection products from the Drivetech 4x4 by Rival range include: • Rear Bumpers – the perfect stylish and lightweight solution for rear protection and tub access. They include tow bar, LED lights, easily accessible step and ADR62 compliant horizontal hitch.

• Roof Racks – lightweight and strong aluminium alloy that is powder coated and corrosion resistant. The upper rail is removable to provide a flat deck option.

• Underbody Armour – 6mm alloy, deep stamped bash plates with stiffening ribs offer

a significant weight benefit and twice the durability over traditional steel plates. Now available as single plates.

• Tailgate Assist Kits – Made in Russia using high quality German gas struts, these precision designed, easy to install kits, make light work of lowering your heavy tailgate to ensure safe operation and slow opening.

• Bonnet Strut Kits – Also made in Russia using high quality German gas struts, these precision designed, no drill installation kits, make it easy to lift your bonnet and hold it in that position giving you a clear and safe path to any maintenance in the engine bay.

To view the full range and find out more about the Drivetech 4x4 by Rival range, visit www.drivetech4x4.com.au

NEW FROM TERRAIN TAMER Heavy-Duty Wheel Bearing and Combination Swivel Housing Kits Terrain Tamer has recently released a range of Heavy-Duty Wheel Bearing and combination Swivel Housing Kits, specifically designed and manufactured for vehicles operating in extreme conditions.

Practical for heavy towing, unforgiving terrain and extreme applications such as mining, the kits are comprised of bearings that have been made in Japan with a Rockwell hardness rating that is 2.5 points higher than the OE equivalent.

Terrain Tamer says these bearings combine a new forging technique with an upgraded heat treatment procedure to enable a longer service life.

The kits also include an innovative new range of Heavy-Duty hub seals which rotate on their own internal surface, without relying on the condition of the shaft and thus eliminating wear on other components.

These seals utilise a labyrinth construction to 86

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine October 2019

better prevent the loss of oil and lubricating fluids and better protect against the ingress of dirt and other contaminants, making them perfectly suited to harsh muddy and dusty conditions and ensuring both extended seal and bearing life.

As with all Terrain Tamer bearing kits, the new Heavy Duty kits also include all required components, such as gaskets, nuts, gear lever seats and bushes, boots, washers and so on and

all parts are covered by a 12 month warranty.

Terrain Tamer Heavy Duty Bearing Kits are now available for a growing number of Toyota Hilux and Landcruiser models.

For more information, visit www.terraintamer.com

TOWING & FRONTAL PROTECTION

MONROE GAS MAGNUM TDT For safer and smoother towing Getting out onto the national highways with a caravan has never been more popular. 4WD vehicles have also become the primary choice for people who are towing their caravans over long distances and in many cases, on unforgiving Australian country roads.

Monroe Australia says its Monroe Gas Magnum TDT shock absorbers have been designed and manufactured specifically for driving, towing and off-road conditions on Australian roads.

Towing heavy loads across long distances and in varying driving conditions has a significant effect on the ride height, steering and braking response of your 4WD. 4WD shock absorbers are subjected to significantly heavier impacts compared with normal vehicles, while the effects of towing heavy loads also adds to a gradual loss in shock absorber performance. This then leads to several knock-on effects, including a significant increase in the emergency stopping distance of the vehicle.

Monroe Australia encourages you to regularly check 4WD shock absorbers and if worn, transform the

feel, ride and safety of your 4WD while enhancing towing safety by fitting Monroe Gas Magnum TDT shock absorbers – which are covered by a threeyear/60,000km warranty.

This advice also applies to the many SUVs and passenger cars which have been designed mainly for urban use. As many of these can be found regularly towing significant weight, Monroe says they should also be regularly checked for shock absorber wear, stating its vast ride performance product range offers exact fit replacement shock absorbers to ensure safer towing for these vehicles.

Aside from regular tow vehicles, we are heading into the time of year when many vehicles are carrying a once a year heavy passenger, luggage and tow load for the festive season holidays across long distances on both sealed and unsealed roads.

A year of shock absorber wear across normal stop and go urban driving does cause significant wear, so repairers should always check these vehicles’ shock absorbers as a part of their pre-holiday vehicle servicing.

Shock absorbers often wear out gradually, which can

make the loss of handling difficult to detect. Worn shock absorbers and related suspension components can contribute to a variety of potential safety and reliability concerns. These include reduced steering control, increased braking distances along with increased and uneven tyre wear.

As such, Monroe ride performance product engineers recommend that a vehicle’s shock absorbers be thoroughly inspected every 20,000 kilometres and as a part of other vehicle services, such as tyre replacement, wheel alignment and brake repairs or replacement.

Detailed shock absorber product information along with a new training video can be found at www.monroe.com.au

IMPROVING THE TOWING EXPERIENCE Redarc’s latest version of its Tow-Pro Elite enhances trailer braking performance Redarc says its Tow-Pro Elite V3 Electric Trailer Brake Controller is an innovative controller with several features not seen in other electric brake controllers on the market.

An electric brake controller is mounted to the tow vehicle’s dashboard area, and engages the trailer’s electrical system – either time delayed or in proportion to the tow vehicle’s brake engagement when slowing down or coming to a halt.

According to Redarc, the Tow-Pro Elite V3 offers a combination of features never before available in the Australian or Global marketplace such as its discreet user interface (remote head), two modes of braking (Proportional and User Controlled/time-based), suitability for 12V and 24V vehicles and operation on both Electric and Electric/hydraulic trailer brakes.

The Tow-Pro Elite V3’s main unit has been designed to be mounted ‘out of the way’, with its design registered user interface (remote head) being the only visible part.

The unique design of the remote head, including the light pipe and the size of the enclosure, played a large role in the depth of install and after consultation with installers Redarc says it identified an opportunity to further improve the design.

The automotive aftermarket needs to install the user interface into dashboards up 7mm thickness and curved dashes such as those found in European vehicles. With a change to the shape, length and depth of the remote head, the Tow-Pro Elite V3 can accommodate these installations.

Another opportunity identified was to introduce a single drill installation of the remote head, benefiting installers by allowing a quicker and easier installation.

The Tow-Pro Elite V3 remote head also ensures flexibility for it to be mounted directly to the dashboard or alternatively through a spare knockout switch panel, an unused area of the dashboard or center console within reach of the driver. The advantage of flexible mounting locations overcomes the intrusion of traditional brake controllers into

the driver’s leg space and potential interference with lower leg airbags in newer vehicles.

Redarc says a key enhancement that the Tow-Pro Elite V3 offers is compatibility with electric over hydraulic installations. Redarc explains it found the response of some electric/hydraulic braking systems could be improved to provide an even smoother braking experience and calibration process, stating that this improvement was achieved by redesigning the electrical circuit.

The Tow-Pro Elite V3 has been designed as a standalone trailer brake actuator system enabling it to be compatible with trailer stability control systems (ESC) such as AL-KO and Dexter. The Tow-Pro Elite V3 operates in such a way that it does not affect the operation of stability control systems, allowing the stability control to activate the trailer brakes when needed and not be affected by the external system.

For more information, visit www.redarc.com.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine October 2019

89

TOWING & FRONTAL PROTECTION

THE STRONG SILENT TYPE The Ult1Mate Next Gen Towbar Milford has launched its new, award winning product – the Ult1Mate Next Gen Towbar – and says this revolutionary new solution is bound to set the towing world alight.

After reviewing the product, Milford says it is easy to see why it was awarded the ‘Most Innovative New Aftermarket Product’ at the 2019 ‘Australian Auto Aftermarket Innovation Awards’.

It says every aspect of the product has been thoroughly researched, designed and tested; making Ult1Mate Next Gen Towbars “the new gold standard in towing.”

One of the most noticeable features is the patented interlocking three piece design.

Certified to the highest international standards and supported by in-house FEA and dynamic testing, Milford says its Ul1Mate Next Gen Towbars represent a breakthrough in delivering maximum strength and failsafe durability.

The interlocking plates are designed to independently sustain the maximum rating of the towbar while the aircraft grade locking fasteners provide extra peace of mind. The unique interface between the side mounting plates and cross bar ensures easy, correct and secure fitment first time, every time, says Milford.

Significantly, this modular design allows the product to be warehoused and transported in custom designed cartons; maximising freight density, minimising the risk of damage as well as removing the need for specialised storage solutions throughout the supply chain.

Milford says that all round, Milford’s Ult1mate Next Gen Towbar will be a real hit, delivering value to end users, retailers, wholesalers and product installers alike.

Importantly, end users will also appreciate the smooth, silent towing experience achieved through Milford’s patented HitchHush end cap. When paired with the Ult1mate Next Gen Towbars’ precision fabricated receiver and the superbly engineered towing lug, Milford says the HitchHush end cap’s revolutionary anti-rattle design will provide years of silent operation; free of those annoying noise and vibration issues.

The entire assembly is stylishly finished in ArmorTex – Milford’s new five stage Anti-Mar protective coating. The multi-layered treatment consists of a high tech surface pre-treatment, conversion coating and an ecofriendly anticorrosion seal. This finish is not only stylish, but also reportedly out-performs standard powder

coat finishes in abrasion and mar resistance testing.

Every Milford Ult1mate Next Gen Towbar application is accompanied with detailed, part specific fitment videos that you can stream directly to any smart device by scanning a QR code contained within the carton.

Milford says its Ult1Mate Next Gen Towbar is “not only the strongest, most innovative and silent towbar on the market, it is also the easiest to fit.”

To find out more, visit www.milford.one or call Milford’s team on 1800 MILFORD.

RESELLER OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE All Vehicle Accessories has been supplying auto industry wholesale products for 30+ years All Vehicle Accessories says big opportunities exist to join its Hayman Reese towbar and East Coast Bullbars reseller programs in Victoria.

Both of these programs are aimed at existing independent workshops who would like to extend their range of products and services.

After speaking to interested workshops, All Vehicle Accessories says it has identified the following areas of concern for most workshops entertaining the idea of becoming a reseller: Price, Ease of Installation, Competition and Availability.

It says it believes its reseller programs address these friction points as follows:

Price “Members of our reseller programs will be eligible for significant discounts that will allow them to offer these products and services at a competitive rate,” All Vehicle Accessories Chief Executive Officer, Melissa Sangster, said.

“We understand that in order to compete with other options and convert customers, the price point has to be realistic and we are willing to work with our resellers to determine fair pricing based not only on volume, but also viability.”

90

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine October 2019

Availability and Ease of Installation “Members of our Hayman Reese reseller program will have access to the entire range of Hayman Reese towbars,” Melissa said.

“Hayman Reese have a strong reputation in Australia built over 60 years and are widely considered to be the leading brand in towbars.

“With outstanding lead times, detailed fitting instruction and plug and play wiring looms, we think Hayman Reese towbars are a practical choice for independent workshops looking to expand their range.

“Members of our East Coast Bullbars reseller program will have access to the entire range of ECB alloy bullbars and nudgebars.

“East Coast Bullbars are industry leaders in the design and manufacture of Alloy Bullbars. Their world’s best alloy bullbars are made in Clontarf, Queensland; local manufacturing means not only outstanding quality, but a much larger range.

“ECB uses straight forward common sense engineering and includes clear and detailed fitting instructions. Straight forward installation, enormous range and short lead times make

ECB an ideal choice for independent workshops looking to expand their range.”

Competition “The current supply network in Victoria is somewhat fragmented and demand is outstripping the number of available installers in many areas,” Melissa said.

“We believe that genuine opportunity exists and that an increase in brand exposure and access for consumers is beneficial for all.”

All Vehicle Accessories says limited spots are available in both programs and eligibility will be determined by location and capacity.

For more information on becoming a reseller, contact Peter Ranken on PeterR@avagroup.net.au

OILS & LUBES

CASTROL LAUNCHES NEW WORKSHOP FRIENDLY 10L PACKS The days of ‘one size fits all’ engine oil are long gone Castrol says that with these days behind us, making sure you’ve got the right product for the right car in the workshop can be a real challenge.

For many, this means having to carry more lubricants than ever before with 10L and 20L ‘small packs’ often needed to fill the gap.

Although convenient, 10L packs of oil have traditionally been clunky and awkward to handle, while relying on 20L pails can mean that you’re stuck holding more product than you actually need on an overflowing drum stand.

To help provide a solution to this issue, Castrol has launched a range of new and improved 10L packs designed to make life in the workshop, and inventory management, easier than ever before.

Space under the bonnet (and in the workshop) can often be tight and dated 10L plastic cubes leave little room for anything else.

Castrol’s new 10L packs are designed with a much smaller footprint to free up space in the workshop, leaving more space on the floor, on the workbench, and on the drum stand.

Castrol says the true test of a pack though is when it’s in use and that’s where Castrol’s new 10L packs stand out.

Designed for both upright and side-pour, Castrol’s new 10L packs also feature Smooth Pour Technology. Rather than adding additional plastic that needs to be disposed of, Castrol explains its unique and in-built Smooth Pour Technology delivers workshops a smooth and easily controlled flow – a popular and long-loved feature of Castrol’s small packs.

Gone too is the need to awkwardly tip the oil you need with just one handle, as Castrol’s new 10L packs have two handles to give you ultimate control while filling.

Castrol’s new 10L packs are available from all good lubricant retailers, or directly from Castrol.

To find our more, speak to your local Castrol rep, call Castrol on 1300 554 890, or visit www.castrol.com.au

QUALITY OILS Available from Unique Auto Parts Unique Auto Parts is one of the largest suppliers of new parts for European vehicles in Australia, with new parts to suit Mercedes Benz, BMW, Volkswagen, Mini, Audi, Peugeot, Renault, Seat, Skoda, Citroen, Volvo and Porsche – but did you know they stock a range of high quality oils and lubricants as well?

UAP says its representatives travelled to the other side of the world to source a range of oils and lubricants that was suitable to be used in European vehicles here in Australia.

Carlube oils are blended in the UK and are specially formulated for European vehicles. UAP says the use of top quality ingredients in Carlube oil means that they not only meet the stringent requirements set forth by car manufacturers, but surpass them.

UAP explains this OEM quality oil is recommended for all modern vehicles and comes with approval from some of the world’s leading car manufacturers such as Mercedes Benz, Renault, Volvo, Land Rover and many others. It states that Carlube manufactures oils including low ash/low SAPS oil, fully synthetic and semi synthetic oils that are suitable for a wide variety of vehicles including both passenger and commercial vehicles.

Manufactured using a combination of carefully selected base fluids and highly developed 92

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine October 2019

additives, Carlube engine oils reportedly offer engine protection and compatibility with after treatment devices such as DPF, SCR and EGR systems. UAP explains that all of the engine oils are formulated for maximum fuel efficiency with added environmental benefits without compromising lubricant durability.

UAP also stocks a number of Carlube additives designed to clean and improve efficiency and performance, including DPF cleaner and complete fuel system cleaner.

Carlube also manufactures high quality transmission fluids for both automatic and manual transmissions as well as power steering and brake fluids for passenger and commercial vehicles.

In addition to stocking a wide variety of oil, UAP

also stocks selected Bluecol coolants suitable for petrol and diesel engines.

Bluecol coolants are high quality, concentrate ethylene glycol based antifreeze and coolants designed to maintain protection against rust and corrosion as well as protecting against winter freezing and summer overheating.

UAP stocks a large range of Carlube products as well as many other product lines in all five of its convenient locations around Melbourne, Brisbane and Perth. A premium delivery service is available using their own fleet of delivery vehicles and a network of couriers.

To be connected to your nearest branch, call 1300 864 864 or for more information, visit www.uniqueautoparts.com.au

OILS & LUBES

RACING AND PERFORMANCE OILS With the DNA of Fighter Engine Technology Fortec Co Ltd says it is introducing “Japan Quality” to the world through its newly developed “unique high-performance, high-quality and state-of-the-art motor oil.”

While manufacturing and selling its own brand of engine oil, gear oil, coolants and more, it says it has supported numerous teams in automobile competitions and been acclaimed by a number of race-winning teams from Super GT, Rally, Autocross, Dirt Trial, Endurance, and Time attack in Japan, as well as the Dakar Rally, Production Car World Rally Championship, Asia-Pacific Rally Championship, and China Rally.

In terms of other brands, the Mitsubishi Motors Works Pajero team adopted Fortec’s racing coolant and won the Dakar Rally. Fortec says it has also developed engine oil jointly with RALLIART Inc, which it continues to manufacture and sell as a well-known, popular product on the market.

Fortec says the scientist who developed lubricants for fighter engines in Japan is behind the establishment of Fortec oil, which is then refined and improved based on the oil component design data without tarnishing the “Japan Quality” name.

In order to maintain the highest level of engine performance, the company says the lubricating oil was designed while taking into account the conditions required by fighter aircraft engines at the time of development.

The product is 100 percent Full Synthetic Oil with poly-α-olefin, which is highly resistant to heat, and polyol-ester, which has strong oil film strength. “The hydraulic increase rate in high rotation engines is amazingly low, the hydraulic stability is excellent, and the metal friction lost is minimized,” says Fortec.

Products include: • Racing Hyper SAE/10W-60 (100 percent Full Synthetic) – this product reportedly demonstrates the highest level of performance

in racing from sporty driving to extremely demanding 24-hour endurance races. It delivers outstanding lubricity for long periods while maintaining appropriate pressure even at high temperatures and under heavy load conditions. Fortec says it offers incomparable ultra-high performance to effectively prevent increases in temperature with solid oil film.

• Racing Turbo SAE/10W-50 (100 percent Full Synthetic) – said to be the highest grade oil suitable for high power, large displacement tuned engines. It delivers maximum prevention of increases in oil temperature and decreases in oil pressure experienced in high temperature, powerdemanding, severe driving conditions under full acceleration for long distances. This product features high performance racing specifications for outstanding heat resistance, wear resistance, and durability and is said to deliver “incredible” acceleration at high revolutions while eliminating performance deterioration thanks to the “best grade base oil and specially mixed additives.”

• RALLIART Engine Oil 5W-45 (100 percent Full Synthetic) – a wide-range specifications range from high-performance turbo engines

to variable valve timing engines. It maintains proper hydraulic pressure even under high temperatures, heavy loads and high loads and maintains oil film protection performance and lubrication performance. This oil was developed thanks to the cooperation of RALLIART Inc and Fortec.

• Version-S 5W-30/5W-40/15W-50 (Synthetic) an introductory oil of Fortec which can be used for everything from city driving to circuit driving at a low price. This is a Fortec oil that can ensure a stable response with a strong oil film and resistance to heat. It is a high-performance engine oil for those who want to use it with confidence in both general driving and motor sports and circuit driving. The price of this item was reduced by adjusting the polyol-ester compared to that of the RACING series.

Currently, Fortec says it sales overseas includes exports to Korea, China, Hong Kong and Mongolia and it is currently looking for a distributer of its circuit racing to performance and 4WD offroad oils for the Oceania region.

For more information, contact (AU Toll free)1800 955 855, info@rplinks.com (export Agency) or fortec@jcom.home.ne.jp or visit www.fortec-oil.jp/ep

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine October 2019

93

OILS & LUBES

MOREY’S CELEBRATES MILESTONES In 2019, Morey’s Oil is celebrating the 70th anniversary of Morey’s Heavy Duty Oil Stabilizer Probably Morey’s Oil’s best-known product, Morey’s Heavy Duty Oil Stabilizer is marketed worldwide and is still made to the original formulation developed by the late Clinton H Morey.

On the subject of celebrating, Morey’s Oils says its Upper Cylinder Lubricant and Injector Cleaner is celebrating renewed interest thanks to the introduction of Ethanol Blended fuels.

Morey’s Heavy Duty Oil Stabilizer reportedly remains as effective today as it has been for the last 70 years, even in todays’ modern engines running modern oils.

When used in the fuel tanks of vehicles running low percentage ethanol blends, the product is said to help maintain fuel system health by slowing corrosion and absorbing moisture.

Please note, this product is not suitable for E85 vehicles.

Other products in the Morey’s Oil range include its Diesel fuel treatment, which is compatible with all modern vehicles, including those with diesel particulate filters be they common rail or EGR. The company says it can also offer a wide variety of greases to cover every application, stating that its Bigfoot grease is a leader in its field in the transport and industrial sectors while its Red-I Marine is extremely effective in the marine sector. Morey’s Oil also recently added a range of food grade lubricants to cater for its customers in that arena.

Morey’s Oil explains it has a network of field representatives and warehouses in Brisbane, Melbourne, Adelaide, Perth, Cairns and Leeton to ensure prompt availability of products nationwide.

The company says it has high quality control procedures with international accreditation of ISO 9001 – 14001 and all of its products are thoroughly field tested and guaranteed to perform when used as directed.

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

ON THE RED LINE Red Line offers a range of high-performance synthetic racing oils and lubricants Red Line Synthetic Oil Corporation has grown to manufacture more than 100 quality products including motor oils, gear oils and assembly lubes as well as fuel additives and the popular WaterWetter cooling additive.

Red Line Synthetic Oil says it formulates fully synthetic oils and chemically advanced additives using the world’s finest base stocks (not cheaper petroleum blends). Red Line Oils are available from Rocket Industries.

“Red Line Oils is considered number one in the world. From a 3,500HP dragster to a 3.5HP lawnmower, Red Line has fully synthetic products, which will deliver a stunning level of protection and efficiency gains,” Rocket Industries’ Chris Palazzo said.

“Whether it be everyday motoring in the family car or running a heavy-duty truck fleet business, farm equipment or earthmoving machinery, racing, jetskis or model aeroplanes, Red Line Oils have your lubrication demands covered with high performance products that deliver complete protection, extended component life and impressive fuel efficiency gains.

“Red Line Oils utilises a wealth of expert 94

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine October 2019

knowledge about available technologies and responds to technical challenges, satisfying the high demands of the performance industry. At the same time, its employees are enthusiasts that stay on top of the racing and performance car sectors, ensuring that their product recommendations allow customers to significantly improve performance.

gasoline, diesel, motorcycle, or marine engine.

They are built to withstand extreme loading and high temperatures and the Water Wetter Super Coolant is said to be able to reduce coolant temperatures by as much as 30°F.

“Formulating full-synthetic oils and chemicallyadvanced additives with the world’s finest base stocks, Red Line’s motor and gear oils use superior ester base stocks. These provide added stability at high temperatures and superior film strengths at lower viscosities where more power can be produced.”

With an impressive line up including Red Line Motor Oil, Red Line Gear Oil and Red Line Transmission Fluid, these specialty lubricants are created for the latest motor cars, race engines, high-revving four stroke motor cross bikes, ATVs, sports bikes, and V-Twins. Made for power, Red Line motorcycle and powersport lubricants are designed to resist the shearing action and keep the viscosity within the desired specification while providing superior wear protection.

Red Line Oils states its motor oils are specially designed to provide the highest protection, lowest friction, and exceptional cleanliness for your

For more information about the right Red Line lubricant for your application, contact Rocket Industries on 02 8825 1900 or visit www.rocketind.com

OILS & LUBES

A POWERFUL PARTNERSHIP R&J Batteries is Australia’s largest distributor of Fuchs Lubricants R&J Batteries says it was proud to choose Fuchs as its lubricants partner thanks to Fuchs’ reputation for manufacturing high quality lubricants which has remained unchanged for almost 90 years.

R&J Batteries, a trusted name in batteries and lubricants for more than 20 years, says that since partnering together, the two companies have developed a strong relationship which provides an unrivalled and personalised focus to customers.

The Fuchs range of lubricants is stocked in each of R&J Batteries’ twenty company owned

stores Australia-wide with the program offering coverage across a variety of categories, including automotive, industrial, greases and special application lubricants.

Amongst the product line-up is the “game changing” Fuchs Titan GT1 Flex 23 SAE 5W-30, a premium engine oil for passenger cars and light commercial vehicles.

This new product replaces Fuchs’ Titan GT1 Proflex SAE 5W-30 in response to the accelerated demand of OEM vehicle manufacturers for higher performance, improved fuel economy and lower emissions.

Titan GT1 Flex 23 also combines European ACEA C2 and C3 with corresponding global approvals to potentially offer coverage for over three million vehicles across the Australian and New Zealand Car Parc.

Featuring German technology, but proudly Australian made, R&J Batteries explains that Fuchs’ new TITAN GT1 Flex 23 can not only potentially reduce oil needs but also fuel

consumption compared to conventional ACEA C3 products of the same viscosity.

Furthermore, TITAN GT1 FLEX 23 is also said to be advantageous for modern downsizing engines as well as vehicles with stop-start and exhaust gas after treatment systems (ie. catalyst or particulate filters).

And while the ‘23’ in TITAN GT1 FLEX 23 refers to its unique ability to combine ACEA C2 and C3 in one product, the ‘Flex’ refers to its multiple global approvals.

For more from R & J Batteries, visit www.rjbatt.com.au

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine October 2019

95

OILS & LUBES

FROM CLEAN-UP TO SHINE Bendix releases consumables aerosol range Bendix has released a new range of aerosols covering all the basics required by the trade, car enthusiasts and households:

• Degrease aerosol – a powerful multipurpose degreaser formulated to remove heavy grease from car and small engines, concrete floors, driveways and workshop surfaces.

• Multi-Use Penetrating and Lubricating aerosol – designed and developed as a heavy duty water dispersant while also assisting in lubricating, protecting and starting wet engines, stopping squeaks and lubricating rusted parts.

• Smooth White Lithium Grease aerosol – an all-purpose lubricant to protect surfaces from abrading or scratching other surfaces and ideal for lubricating wheel bearings under all service conditions, CV joints, hinges, door catches plus many more uses.

• Shine aerosol – easily shine your tyres, mud flaps and bumpers for the ultimate appearance while preventing dirt from forming on the surfaces.

• Bendix Silicone aerosol – protect plastic, vinyl and rubber, sliding tracks, locks, fishing equipment, chain and moving belts.

• Bendix Brake and Parts Cleaner – rapidly remove brake fluids, oils, dust, dirt, grease and other contaminants from brake linings, disc pads, drums, clutch plates, rotors and more while also stopping brake squeal. Can be applied without dismantling the brakes and also cleans other components and equipment.

For more information, visit www.bendix.com.au 98

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine October 2019

TITAN ATF 6400 Fuchs says this product is able to service approximately 5.5 million vehicle applications The Australian and New Zealand automotive market is the most complex in the world, having a vastly greater number of vehicle brands and models than any other market.

This complexity flows through to the Automatic Transmissions used and therefore the requirements of the transmission fluids needed to service these various specifications, which in itself has become extremely complex.

Before going much further, it’s important to have an understanding of the functions necessary to ensure optimal transmission performance and longevity.

These tasks include the cooling of the transmission, its lubrication, its protection against wear, the operation of solenoids and clutch packs, as well as managing friction during gear shifts and prevention of shuddering. If one or even several of these tasks are not performed properly, the transmission will at the very least feel wrong and most likely sustain damage.

For example, automatic transmission fluids (ATFs) need to show excellent friction and anti-foam characteristics. Often, these performance requirements cannot be optimised simultaneously. Instead, one needs to be optimised at the expense of another.

Transmission fluids therefore must be formulated for the specific needs of the transmission type and even the transmission model they are intended to be used in.

While a multi-vehicle ATF can serve a purpose towards satisfying general automatic transmission requirements across a mixed fleet of vehicles, it will not truly deliver the same level of performance as a dedicated, OEM Approved, Automatic Transmission Fluid.

As one of the biggest OEM first-fill suppliers for transmission fluids, Fuchs says it works closely with the transmission and vehicle OEMs, as well as key industry formulation houses to ensure its range of ATFs provide optimum performance to the nominated transmissions in the market.

Within the complexity of transmissions in this market there are dominate OEM specifications that service significant numbers of vehicles, so Fuchs says that being able to engineer a fluid to provide more than one such OEM Approval in a single fluid provides significant benefit for the vehicle service industry.

To that end, Fuchs explains it has developed TITAN ATF 6400 to provide OEM approved coverage for both the current mainstream GM and Ford specifications, as well as validated

capability to service a number of Japanese, Korean and European requirements.

Fuchs reports its analysis of the Australian and New Zealand market has the specifications supported by this product translating to being able to service approximately 5.5 million vehicle applications*.

It says TITAN ATF 6400 has been specially designed to deliver increased performance and fuel efficiency for modern automatic transmissions where reduced viscosity is required and meets the stringent GM DEXRON-VI and Ford MERCON LV Approvals.

Further, it states TITAN ATF 6400 provides exceptional anti-shudder performance, consistent and strong friction control properties validated with real-world testing of nearly 1,000,000 kilometres.

Due to its DEXRON VI Approval, Fuchs says it has been able to rationalise its range by replacing its TITAN ATF 6000 SL with this new more versatile advanced fluid. Plus, as TITAN ATF 6400 is the first Fuchs fluid to come with the significant Ford MERCON LV Approval, it further enhances its market coverage across dealerships and independent workshops.

Key benefits: • Approved by General Motors (DEXRON-VI) and Ford (MERCON LV) in specified automatic transmissions.

• Approved for JASO 1-A-LV coverage in Japanese automatic transmissions.

• Specially formulated additive technology providing exceptional anti-shudder performance to improve driving experience.

• Consistently strong friction control providing excellent shifting performance.

• Supported by real-world testing in a range of passenger vehicles with nearly 1,000,000 kilometres testing.

• Large market coverage; and, • Fewer fluids required in the workshop.

For more information, visit www.fuchs.com.au *Please refer to the latest Product Data Sheet for full details, and for specific vehicle applications refer to the Fuchs web and mobile oil chooser programs (after November 22nd)

OILS & LUBES

SYNOLEX SPECIALTY LUBRICANTS Sepahan Petro Kimia Company, producer of Synolex Specialty Lubricants, has recently joined the AAAA Synolex products reportedly have a novel scientific approach to the lubricants industry and were launched in Iran in 2008.

Since then, the products have undergone continuous development with numerous chemists and petroleum engineers working to “continuously elevate the lubricating and protection properties of the Synolex product portfolio.”

Sepahan Petro Kimia Company says partial use of group V base oils and advanced additive technology in the formulation of Synolex products has brought distinct features such as “super prevention” of cold (dry) start harm plus smooth and silent engine torque. Polar Esters play a major role in the creation of these properties by providing a real magnetic property in Synolex engine oils.

In addition to OEM approvals from globally wellknown companies such as Volvo, Man, ZF, Voith, Siemens and Flender, Sepahan Petro Kimia says it is the first Asian company listed by the “Global Lube Base Oil Specifications Center” as a manufacturer of Group V base oils.

These base oils consist of different types of esters that could be used in the formulation of advanced full synthetic lubricants such as Jet Engine Oils and Fire Resistant Hydraulic Fluids, but the directors of the company decided to do a “revolutionary job” and use a portion of these valuable base stocks in the formulation of passenger cars to enhance its properties.

Hence, in 2015, Sepahan Petro Kimia Company launched its new product line of semi-synthetic Turbo Magnetic products in various grades such as 5W-40/5W-30 SN, 10W-40 SM and 20W50 SJ – specifically designed to provide longer drain intervals for taxis and reportedly still a top seller of the Synolex product range thanks to the recommendations of satisfied consumers.

Moreover, in driveline lubricants, due to extreme pressure endurance, Esters have been partially used in Synolex gear oils and are said to have resulted in surprising outcomes. To illustrate, testing showed the friction decreased leading to tangible smoother shifting that could be easily

felt by expert drivers. Esters are used in the formulation of 70W-80, 75W-90 and 85W-90 GL-5 manual transmission fluids.

Synolex lubricants are currently manufactured in Iran and are distributed in regional markets such as Iran, Iraq, Pakistan, Armenia and Afghanistan, while Sepahan Petro Kimia Company is planning to start production plants in Turkey and Australia in the near future to expand its sales territory to Europe and the Asia and Pacific regions..

The Synolex product portfolio is said to be vast and not limited to the distinct products introduced above.

The comprehensive product list can be found at www.synolexoil.com

PERTAMINA LUBRICANTS COMES TO AUSTRALIA The premium brand has been powering engines with “superior quality” since 1957 Global brand PT Pertamina Lubricants, a subsidiary company of PT Pertamina (Persero), has expanded its business into Australia.

protection that is in compliance with international quality standards such as API, JASO and ACEA for impressive driving performance.

By opening a Pertamina Lubricants Representative Office through Business Automotive Solutions Pty Ltd, the brand’s Exclusive Distributor in Australia, its vision is to introduce its technologically-advanced Fully Synthetic Oils, the Fastron Series, to the market.

The brand is also accredited by world-renowned car manufacturers, such as Toyota, BMW, Mercedes Benz, Volvo, Lamborghini and so on.

Formulated with Nano Guard and advanced additive technology, the Fastron synthetic oil series reportedly delivers cleanliness, fuel savings, durability and maximum engine

In addition, Pertamina Lubricants is said to be a Factory Fill Engine Oil for various car manufacturers, such as Toyota, Honda, Mitsubishi, Suzuki, Isuzu, and many more.

With more than 60 years of experience in the oil industry, Pertamina Lubricants says it applies an integrated production process – starting from Exploration, Refinery, Oil Blend, and all the way to Distribution – and an end-to-end process through state of the art ISO accredited facilities and laboratories to produce world-class lubricants with consistent quality.

As part of its initiative to penetrate the Australian lubricant market and prove the quality of Fastron oils on the industry’s stage, Pertamina Lubricants says it has recently been appointed as one of the Official Lubricants for the Toyota 86 Series which features its brand ambassador Luke King, the runner-up of the 2018 Season Toyota 86 Racing Series.

100

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine October 2019

Furthermore, since December 2015, PT Pertamina Lubricants has been the officially appointed official technical partner of Automobili Lamborghini for motorsport and supercar events handled by Automobili Lamborghini.

For more information please contact your local representative on 0466 355 850 or 1300 28 28 14 or via email at sales@basauto.com.au

OILS & LUBES

ZF TRANSMISSION OILS ZF says it transmission oils deliver less wear and longer service life The day-to-day demands on modern cars continue to increase, and in turn, so do the demands on automatic transmissions and transmission oils.

Oil is an incredibly important factor in assuring the performance of transmission components.

Choosing the wrong oil can have serious consequences, such as higher fuel consumption, shifting problems or in the long-run, damage to components including friction discs.

ZF says that is why as a transmission manufacturer it has developed transmission oils in conjunction with each of its individual transmissions and customises these oils specifically to the transmission’s requirements.

Available through ZF Services Australia is the range of high-performance ZF LifeguardFluid transmission oils, specifically designed to meet the complex requirements of modern systems.

Containing a blend of high-quality base oils and special additive packages, ZF says its Lifeguardfluid guarantees excellent lubrication and friction properties, even under extreme operating conditions.

The special additives work to provide a longer service life for all transmission components, delivering maximum fuel economy based on optimised viscosity as well as lower CO2 emissions.

ZF LifeguardFluid oils support perfect shifting behaviour, comparable to the level of a new car, and vibration-free operation.

Under normal driving conditions, the transmission oil should last a vehicle’s entire life cycle, but vehicles can age prematurely due to excessive loads, such as frequent towing, or quick, sporty driving.

Therefore ZF recommends an oil change for ZF transmissions every 100,000 kilometres or after eight years at the latest.

ZF LifeguardFluid oils are available for four, five, six, eight and nine speed applications in a variety of sizes, depending on the application.

For more information, visit www.zf.com/lubricants or call 1800 ZF SALES (1800 93 72537).

DISPENSING FLUIDS IN THE WORKSHOP Thanks to Macnaught’s new BOP20 Battery Operated Pump for 20L drums Service Managers from the largest dealers to the smallest service workshops are always seeking ways to streamline their process.

One area of the modern workshop that is falling behind the trend is the dispensing of fluids from 20 litre drums. The current regime of labour intensive manual pumping is still quite the norm despite the fact these containers have become more ubiquitous as vehicle requirements become more specialised.

Macnaught’s new BOP20 Battery Operated Pump for 20L drums enables workshops to work more efficiently. The clever use of patent pending technology, combined with innovative design and intuitive operation, not only solves the problem of fatiguing manual pumps, but also reduces the likelihood of spills and provides an expandable platform of oil handling efficiencies for the business.

This portable, self-priming pump employs powerful 18V Lithium Ion battery technology while allows it to provide on-demand power for the accurate delivery of specialised oils up to SAE90.

The BOP20’s Lithium Ion rechargeable battery is also complemented with a desk charger to provide a full recharge in just one hour.

For more information, visit www.macnaught.com.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine October 2019

101

OILS & LUBES

PAO BASED OILS From The Refrigerant Oil Company The Refrigerant Oil Company, marketed under the Ariazone brand name, says it pioneered the use of PAO based oils in refrigeration after 15 years of R and D. It says it did so because its refrigeration mechanic founders recognised the advantages of the stability, purity, and lubricity of polyalphaolefins (PAOs) for the refrigeration industry.

The company reports that PAOIL is useable with all automotive compressor types including hybrid vehicle compressors and states that PAO is also compatible with R134a and the new R1234yf refrigerant, meaning you only need one oil to use for most auto A/C applications.

PAOIL has a high Viscosity Index meaning that the oil maintains its viscosity and lubricating properties at high operating temperatures.

Unlike other lubricants, PAO is nonhypgroscopic which means it does not readily absorb moisture.

Due to its inertness and inherent stability, PAOIL has a five year shelf life.

PAOIL is also available with an added UV dye to help with leak tracing. The PAOIL PL series offers the same positive properties as the PAOIL AA1 series, meaning it can be used as a complete oil replacement for A/C systems.

PAOIL is available in 1L, 5L, 10L and 20L containers sizes and as you can buy in bulk while not worrying about the oil being unusable a couple of hours after opening, you will reportedly not need to stock multiple types of oil since PAOIL is suitable for use with a wide variety of automotive compressors and refrigerants.

As such, PAOIL saves money and the special packaging and equipment needed with other oils to ensure that moisture does not enter the refrigeration circuit along with the oil is not necessary with PAOIL. Further, the product is safe to use: PAO is a non-hazardous, non-toxic product which is safe to have around the workshop. It is also safe on painted surfaces, so there are no worries if it is accidentally spilt on vehicles.

For more information, go to www.rocoil.com or www.ariazone.com or call 03 9338 7522 for the name of your nearest stockist.

102

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine October 2019

DRIVELINE FLUID SOLUTIONS From Penrite Oil Penrite Oil says it a leader in supplying quality lubricants, coolants and additives which offers an extensive range of driveline products covering everything from the newest and most modern equipment to the oldest classic, vintage and veteran vehicles.

Driveline fluids are as essential as engine oils for protecting gearboxes, transaxles, transfer cases and differentials in vehicles. They provide: • Extreme pressure protection • Wear protection • Hydraulic pressure • Lubrication • Heat transfer • Friction reduction • Noise reduction • Driver assistance • Cleanliness The Penrite driveline fluids range consists of Gear Oils, Automatic Transmission Fluids and Specialised additives.

Penrite says its Gear Oil range set new standards for drivetrain lubricants when it was launched, stating that until it introduced its Gear Oil range of products, there were basically two complete ranges of products to cater for the needs of either Hypoid and Limited Slip differentials.

Retailers, consumers and trade mechanics reportedly found these ranges complicated and confusing.

“With the large number of different types available on the market such as base oil type, Limited Slip or Hypoid, Gearbox or Differential, API GL grades, different sizes and fancy marketing names, it’s no wonder that misapplication in this category was frequent, costly and disillusioned retailers, consumers and trade personnel,” Penrite Oil Director Sales and Marketing, Toby Dymond, said.

“At Penrite, our customers were telling us that they were confused by the ranges of products in the market and that they would support action to simplify this category.

“This was also reflected in the call to Penrite’s technical help line. The help line was answering around 40 calls per month from retailers, consumers and trade mechanics on finding the correct product for the application that they were trying to service. It was time for Penrite to address these problems.

“Penrite market researched, developed, trialled and then consolidated two product ranges into one, where one product would cover all of the applications previously performed by two separate products.

“Not only did Penrite accomplish this with the most popular viscosity grade (80W-90) but also with 85W-140 and Straight 140 grades, creating three products that took the confusion out of which type of product to use.”

The new Penrite Gear Oil Range is made up of three products which replaced six existing products: • Penrite Gear Oil 80W-90 – consolidated and replaced Hypoid 80W-90 and Limslip 90 Gear Oils.

• Penrite Gear Oil 85W-140 – consolidated and replaced Hypoid 85W-140 and Limslip 85W140 • Penrite Gear Oil 140 – consolidated and replaced Hypoid 140 and Limslip 140 Penrite says the development of the Gear Oil range basically eliminated the problem of misapplication while once again seeing it create a first in the market.

It says Penrite Gear Oil 80W-90, 85W-140 and 140 were unique in the market-place as the only gear oil product that provided one solution to two separate applications.

The products can be used in applications where a standard gear or hypoid oil is required and where a friction modified (LSD) version of this grade of lubricant is required.

At the same time, Gear Oil eliminated the need for customers to purchase two products with the same viscosities and also relieved the “clutter” in the gear oil section at retail level by allowing retailers more shelf room to increasing product sales and ranging options. In the trade, one product replaced two, lowering inventory levels and increases their profitability per vehicle service.

Penrite is an Australian family owned and operated business and says it is proud to introduce initiatives that benefit its trade and retail partners with products such as the Penrite Gear Oil Range.

For further assistance, Customer Service and Technical Assistance, please phone Penrite on 1300 736 748.

More product and technical information on coolants can be found on the Penrite website by visiting www.penriteoil.com.au/applications/car-4wd/gear-oils

FUTURE AUTO INNOVATIONS

ONE GIANT LEAP FOR GERMAN-KIND With the arrival of its first all-electric production car, arch-conservative Porsche has set a new pace and tempo for the industry’s march towards an alternative-fuel future. In this article, AutoMate’s Harrison Boudakin explores the revolutionary Taycan and why it’s arguably the most significant car to launch this year Karl Popper’s theory of ‘piecemeal engineering’ – the practice of small measures – has largely defined the last 133 years of automotive progress. With the corporate giants at the helm, the fundamentals of car design have remained constant, instilling a largely evolutionary approach: turn a screw here, carefully open a valve there, but whatever you do, make sure not to rush the change.

and the wildly successful Macan (which overtook its big brother as Porsche’s best-seller).

But recent happenings – both technological and political – have undermined the status quo. It has been four years since the Volkswagen Dieselgate revelations first broke – barely a week, remember, after the 2015 Frankfurt Motor Show closed its doors; and since then, the calculus of automotive progress has changed dramatically.

It’s called the Taycan and with an all-electric architecture, wind-cheating body sculpture and revolutionary battery powertrain, it’s arguably the sharpest arrow shot across the bows of Tesla by any of the major auto-manufacturers to date.

Whereas in 2015 a future beyond the internal combustion engine was presented as distant at best, today it is spoken of in largely certain and urgent terms. Now, the hum of gentle evolution is being drowned out by an impossible wave of expectation, compelled into existence by lawmakers and politicians who are demanding an electric future.

On top of that, the car industry is facing an insurgency from the disruptive world of Silicon Valley, whose seemingly limitless supply of brains, cash and innovation is leading the world in battery technology and getting us all in a spin about the prospect of autonomous driving.

And if any one auto-manufacturer knows the perils of being caught between the sea-anchor of history and the inexorable tidal-flow towards the future, surely it is Porsche. For more than 70 years the poster child for conservative incrementalism, in recent decades the German brand has grappled with the prospect of reinventing its product line up to remain profitable and future-proof, all the while maintaining its core “sports car” bloodline.

More than once they’ve succeeded in pulling-off this tricky double-act. When the controversial Cayenne SUV launched in 2003, few believed this 2.5-tonne leviathan would go on to become Porsche’s best-selling model – but it did, not only becoming an enormous cash cow for Zuffenhausen but crucially re-defining what ‘Brand Porsche’ meant to the buying public.

The Cayenne’s success also spurred further ventures into areas other than “pure” sports models, such as the Panamera executive sedan 104

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine October 2019

And now, as the tectonic plates of automotivity jostle ever more vigorously and automakers get set for an uncertain vault into an electric world, Porsche has once again leapfrogged its own evolutionary instincts and come up with a product that represents another turning of the page in the company’s extraordinary history.

Straight away, any doubts about Porsche’s ability to design an electric vehicle are banished

by Taycan: this is a truly handsome product: obviously Porsche, instantly futuristic and closely aping the Mission E electric concept previewed a few years ago. Undeniably, it’s a highly successful attempt to translate the classic Porsche “form” for tomorrow’s world – not least because it renders a Tesla Model S just slightly frumpy and even, dare I say it, a bit dated.

But it’s only once you peel back the curvaceous formwork that the real genius of Taycan becomes obvious. Packed dense and low with an array of high-performance batteries and brought to life by a world-first 800-volt electrical system, the Taycan represents an enormous flex of Porsche’s

engineering muscle, promising over 400km of range and the possibility of truly rapid charge times.

Launched, appropriately, at the Frankfurt Motor Show, the Taycan will initially be available only in top-spec Turbo and Turbo S models, each with dual motors for all-wheel-drive and offering upwards of 500kw of power. Lower-powered variants will soon follow, but for the moment the most maniacal Turbo S will sprint to 100km/h from rest in just 2.8 seconds, and crucially for Germany’s autobahns, hit 260km/h.

Such a remarkable top speed for an electric vehicle can be attributed to the Taycan’s worldfirst two-speed gearbox, which also helps Porsche

FUTURE AUTO INNOVATIONS

extend the car’s cruising range. What’s more, Porsche is adamant that their decision to use permanent synchronous electric motors, rather than heavier and less consistent asynchronous units, is the key reason why Taycan is a step beyond rivals when it comes to delivering reliable high performance under even the most arduous conditions.

Indeed, Porsche has taken full advantage of the dynamic opportunities made available by the switch to full-electric power. Throttle response, they claim, is five times quicker than a traditional internal-combustion-engine vehicle, traction control 10 times faster, and limited slip differential responses more than 50 times more rapid. Thanks to the low-set battery pack, Taycan

also claims a lower centre of gravity than any other road-going Porsche, while three-chamber air suspension and Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control all but entirely neuters body roll, even at maximum lateral load.

And yet even with this compelling concoction of ingredients, taken as a whole the Taycan somehow still manages to be so much more than the sum of its parts.

In one sense, this car is ostensibly an opportunity to prove that Porsche can now dance to the beat of a different tune; that going forward, the righteous symphonies of ‘clean’ and ‘green’ will set the pace and tempo of the company’s future passage.

But beneath this roaring symbol-clash of ecological saintliness, there is another aura surrounding this car: one that will doubtless bring a wave a reassurance to anyone who fears a future where the car is no longer an object of abject enjoyment.

Put simply, it is hard to ignore the fact that the Taycan has been designed to quicken the pulse and titillate the senses; its presence confirming – happily – that the automobile is still a monument to the artistry of perfected engineering.

And so for all the talk that the industry is about to double-pike into a dark and uncertain era of “change,” the reality is that one crucial element of the automotive equation really hasn’t changed at all: The fun quotient; the percentage of amusement that gives a pulse to what are otherwise just lifeless pieces of machinery – that is still there.

And so thankfully, what the Taycan teaches us perhaps more than anything else, is that the relentless thud of this automotive heartbeat shows no signs of fading anytime soon.

Written by AutoMate Training, a world leading provider of online, video-based technical training, with over 400 modules featuring high quality graphics, the latest vehicles and real presenters The Automate library covers everything from system fundamentals to advanced diagnostics and technology, including training on Dual-Clutch Transmissions.

Subscribe today for only $33 per month for professional techs and just $9.90 for trainees.

Visit www.automatetraining.com for a free trial.

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine October 2019

105

TRADE TALK

SWITCHING TO A LAND DOWNUNDER

Moving from the UK to take up the role as Hella Australia’s Managing Director was a big decision, but Darren Robinson explains that he has never looked back Born and raised 120 kilometres north of London, England, in the industrial city of Birmingham, Hella Australia Managing Director knew he was destined to work with cars from his early 20s.

“I realised that I wanted a career in the automotive industry when I was 23 years old,” Darren explains.

“I was in my first sales role, responsible for developing business with local wholesalers and retailers. It was a pretty small company and I was very fortunate that they gave me the flexibility to make decisions and to drive change.

“I loved seeing the results that came from growing the relationships I had with my customers and I still find it very motivating to see the top and bottom lines improve.”

Even before his working life began, Darren had a passion for all things automotive.

“My love of cars started at an early age and it runs in the family. My two brothers and I used to work on our cars together. My first car was a black 1978 Ford Capri 2.0S,” Darren enthuses.

But the self-confessed DIYer hasn’t always worked in the industry.

“I left school at 17 and wasn’t really sure what I wanted to do, so I tried a few different jobs including as a paint sprayer and a builder, before I took a job delivering parts for an automotive supplier,” he says.

He jokes about going through a mid-life crisis when he recently hit the half century mark.

“When I get the chance, I love getting out on the open road on my Harley, which I bought as a part of my midlife crisis when I turned 50 last year. I also love going to the gym, but my body isn’t so keen now I’m getting on a bit,” Darren says.

On a serious note, Darren explains that having to part from his parents and siblings when he left England was one of the hardest things in his life he has done.

Darren Robinson

“In leaving the UK to move to Australia just over four years ago, I had to leave my brothers and my mother and father behind. It was a really difficult decision, but it was the right one,” Darren says.

find a way to be great at it. Be honest and open with colleagues and customers and deliver what you promise,” Darren says.

“My wife and son love Australia and I’ve already chosen the tree that I want to be buried under.

So, whilst it was hard to leave family behind, I love life in Australia and plan to spend the rest of my life here.”

The part-time Harley rider says that enjoying both your personal life and what you do in your job and the company of your work colleagues is the key to a fulfilling career.

“Find a job you really enjoy, because if you enjoy getting up in the morning and going to work you’ll

He also believes that chasing the big end of town is not always the way to a happy life.

“Moving from a global role, to a local role as Managing Director of Hella UK was a great move for me and one of the best decisions I’ve made for my career. I had spent years chasing bigger roles, with more responsibility, a higher turnover and more employees, before I finally realised that what I really wanted was the opportunity to make real change and to achieve long term growth,” Darren explains.

“As a delivery driver I had a lot of interaction with customers, which was my favourite part of the job.

Once I realised this I quickly moved into customer service and then sales roles, before working my way from regional to national – and eventually global – sales, marketing and operations roles within several different organisations.”

Darren’s relationship with Hella actually began in his homeland.

“When an opportunity came up to join Hella UK as Managing Director I knew it would be a role where I could really make a difference and be instrumental in the development of the business and its people,” he explains.

Darren is a true family man, married and with an eight-year-old son.

“I love spending time with my family and friends.

I also really enjoy watching movies and sport, and I enjoy DIY jobs.”

106

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine October 2019

Dr. Walter W.J. Uhlenbruch AO, Founding Managing Director of HELLA Australia, officially opened HELLA Australia’s new National Headquarters with current Managing Director, Darren Robinson.

TRADE TALK “Flying all over the world was a truly great experience, but the impact I was making was limited by the amount of time I had before taking the next flight.”

He also says that good mangers look beyond the raw facts and figures.

“I believe in making decisions not only based on data, but on intuition and common sense.

Life is about trying things, making mistakes and learning from them,” Darren philosophises.

I admit that I’ve made many mistakes over my career and it’s hard to pick just one, so I’ve done a lot of learning! There is rarely a perfect decision and the worst thing is to not make a decision at all.

Darren believes that attitude can make all the difference when it comes to a successful career.

“As far as I’m concerned, without the right attitude, skill is wasted,” he says.

It is for this reason that he always works hard to make sure he has a positive attitude himself, which he describes as one of his strengths, along with common sense and a customer-first approach. He is also big on delivering what he promises.

Hella Australia moving with the times Hella was founded in 1899, in Lippstadt Germany, as a manufacturer of lanterns, headlamps and horns for bicycles, carriages and eventually vehicles, with the Hella trademark first being used in 1908.

Over the course of the last century Hella became synonymous for high quality lighting and, more recently, electronic vehicle systems.

Hella Australia was established in 1961 as the company’s first production facility outside of Europe, to manufacture lighting for the local Original Equipment vehicle manufacturers and to support the local Independent Aftermarket.

Today, whilst remaining a family-owned business, Hella is a global organisation employing approximately 40,000 people across its 125 locations, spanning 35 countries, and has an annual turnover exceeding AUD$11billion.

The Company’s commitment to research and development remains strong, with more than 7,000 people in R&D roles globally.

Hella is one of the top 40 automotive suppliers in the world, with the supply of Original Equipment parts and technology to the world’s leading vehicle manufacturers accounting for the majority of its revenue.

In 2018 Hella Australia relocated to a new purpose-built 7,000sqm facility and has been continually investing in inventory holdings.

Hella’s global aftermarket division includes 10 joint ventures and a diverse portfolio of more than 40,000 products spanning lighting, electrics,

electronics, and thermal management, braking, filters and workshop equipment.

Significant investment has also been made in the growth and diversification of the Hella Australia product portfolio with several new product ranges introduced in recent years, including service items such as braking components.

Hella offers a comprehensive OE quality-braking program for passenger cars and light commercial vehicles through the Hella Pagid Brake Systems brand, a joint venture with the world’s leading Original Equipment braking manufacturer TMD Friction.

Hella Australia was set up to manufacture lighting for local Original Equipment vehicle manufacturers and to service the Australian independent aftermarket, as well as specialist segments such as marine and mining.

However, as local vehicle manufacturing began to decline Hella Australia restructured its business, creating the Aftermarket and Special Applications Business Divisions to focus on the independent aftermarket and the supply of parts to specialist manufacturers in multiple sectors including automotive, mining, marine, agriculture and leisure.

As a leading European OE manufacturer, Hella is uniquely positioned to provide high-quality parts for European vehicles. So, as sales of European vehicles continue to increase across Australia, the company continues to invest in its OE Euro parts programs, ensuring that its Aftermarket partners have access to the latest parts and technical support they need.

With Hella Pagid Braking Systems and the Textar and Don brands, Hella claims it has an exceptionally strong braking program that offers Original Equipment braking components for European passenger cars and commercial vehicles.

Similarly, Mahle is another Original Equipment brand that will become available from January 1, 2020 through Hella Australia and one which allows it to offer a comprehensive range of OE thermal management products. “Efficient thermal management will play an increasingly important role in the future, for all powertrain technologies, and our partnership with Mahle puts Hella at the forefront of this rapidly growing segment,” Darren claims.

“With more than 50 percent of our lighting product coming from our production facility in New Zealand, we are speeding up our focus on developing new products for our local markets and this will be a key factor in the continued development across our lighting portfolio.

“We are establishing product roadmaps with our production facilities in Austria and Romania, where we see some exciting opportunities moving forwards.

HELLA Australia wins the 2019 Most Innovative New Servicing Product (Tools & Equipment) for its HELLA GUTMANN SOLUTIONS CSC-Tool at the Australian Auto Aftermarket Awards 2019

“Supporting workshops, and their requirements, continues to be a major focus for our business now and as we look to the future.

“We have recently expanded our workshop equipment program with the launch of the Hella Gutmann Solutions brand and the addition of Scangrip’s range of premium quality workshop lighting products.”

The continued growth of electronic vehicle systems, including Advanced Driver Assist Systems (ADAS) and the move towards electric vehicles and autonomous driving, means that workshops need to adapt quickly to keep pace.

“With the recent introduction of Hella Gutmann Solutions we can assist repairers by giving them access to the latest diagnostic equipment, with state-of-the-art features, comprehensive vehicle data and an intuitive user interface, as well as an award-winning multi-brand ADAS calibration solution,” Darren says.

“Workshops that use Hella Gutmann Solutions equipment benefit from a high level of technical support to assist, ensuring that even the most complex service and repair procedures on today’s technology-laden vehicles can be carried with ease.”

HELLA Australia is excited about the next chapter ahead and continuing to shape the technology of tomorrow.

For more from Hella Australia, visit www.hella.com.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine October 2019

107

BUSINESS SERVICES

OPENPAY: EMPOWERING AUSSIES Thanks to a smarter way to manage automotive costs Customers today are more clued in than ever before with technology giving them access to copious amounts of information, right at their fingertips. From discovering the latest technology available with the newest vehicle of choice, to a mechanic’s customer reviews, to details on how the product or service impacts the environment, and their wallet: all details are available at the click of a button.

With innovation and digitisation in the financial services and automotive industries evolving at a rapid rate, customers feel more enabled and empowered than ever to do their own research to make informed choices. With this extra knowledge comes confidence, and with confidence comes power.

However, from new tyres, to adding tinted windows, or undertaking major service or repairs, customers typically put off their motor vehicle purchases due to associated costs. With the

introduction of the increasingly popular buy now, pay later technology solutions, customers are empowered with non-traditional ways to manage their auto-related expenses.

Openpay provides flexible interest-free payment plans to customers across a wide range of industries, and has a specialist automotive arm designed to give customers more time to manage their expenses over a two to 12 month period.

Not only does Openpay have direct benefits for customers, it also provides valuable outcomes for businesses in the automotive industry.

Dealerships and automotive retailers offering Openpay to customers have reportedly seen an almost threefold increase in their average transaction value of a standard service repair order, when Openpay was utilised for the transaction.

“At Openpay, we’re proud to be able to provide our customers with a practical way to afford

small or large auto-related expenses, without having the burden of the cost get in the way. This option not only benefits consumers, but also our merchants,” Openpay Chief Executive Officer, Michael Eidel, said.

With simple on-site sign ups, Openpay says its process is seamless, paperless and stress-free with the merchant receiving payment on the next business day.

For more information, please contact Eric Weitzman at eric@openpay.com.au

COMMON PARTS DELIVERY TRAPS AND HOW TO AVOID THEM In this article, Walter Scremin, the General Manager of national delivery transport provider Ontime Delivery Solutions, explains how to minimise the risks with delivery transport Delivery transport is usually a top five business cost for the aftermarket automotive parts industry and cost blowouts are a constant risk – whether from delivering the wrong part or parts going missing and not to mention accidents, breakdowns and WorkCover claims.

The first major trap is taking it all on yourself.

Managing your own transport fleet is a massive fixed cost. Outsourcing has become a key component in keeping costs down because it turns a fixed cost into a variable one, and you also outsource certain risks such as possible WorkCover claims and other unexpected issues.

But there are several traps in outsourcing which parts companies must know about.

Trap – Resourcing for perfection Most parts companies use a mix of owned and outsourced transport resources for their deliveries.

Some parts companies outsource completely, and a few take it all on themselves. The most important thing is having flexibility built into the delivery transport structure.You need a mix which can roll with the punches. Flexible fleets will adjust quickly when things go wrong. But if you’re resourced for perfection the consequences from unexpected mishaps or surprises will be more severe.

108

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine October 2019

Acquiring the right mix can be a delicate balancing act and requires a strong relationship with your transport providers.

Trap – Outsourcing to the cheapest suppliers This is related to the previous point. Choosing the cheapest is one of the biggest traps, because it’s often more expensive later on. They may not have the depth and breadth in resources to cover you when things go wrong.

By choosing the cheapest you may be sacrificing professionalism, reliability, and the ability to grow with you and provide your business with the care it needs.

Trap – Not understanding all the costs Many delivery fleets underestimate or are unaware of the many hidden costs involved in managing a fleet.

Not knowing your true costs is a great trap because you could be making decisions based on inaccurate information. When you truly know the costs you increase your chances of making the right choices.

Trap – Over-relying on technology Tech has a big role to play in delivery transport, but personalised service is still key.

Keeping customers informed, and delivering items in full, undamaged and on time is vital in auto parts as misplaced deliveries cause delays.

The technology is a great resource but the human factor is also critically important.

Trap – Valuing speed over professionalism Delivering parts quickly is great, but there’s little value in being quick if you are unreliable or unprofessional.

While we all need to be quick in auto parts, we don’t need to be the quickest to be the best and most reliable – better professionalism and customer service is often more valuable than speed alone.

Trap – No parcel/vehicle tracking Many small to mid-sized delivery fleets are missing the efficiency gains from tracking technology.

Tracking plays a big role in communicating with customers, and allows you to manage the entire fleet efficiently.

The other big upside is protecting your business, via proof-of-delivery systems.

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

HR

PERSONAL/CARER’S LEAVE DECISION AND APPEAL: THE MEANING OF DAY The Full Federal Court of Australia has handed down a landmark decision in Mondelez Australia Pty Ltd v AMWU [2019] FCAFC 138 The decision concerned the meaning of the word “day” for the purpose of the 10-day personal/ carer’s leave (Personal Leave) entitlement in the Fair Work Act 2009 (Act).

The Full Court found that the meaning of “day” is a “working day” (ie. the number of ordinary hours actually worked by an employee during a 24 hour period) and rejected Mondelez’s contention that the entitlement must be construed according to a “notional day” or the average weekly ordinary hours divided by five (eg. 38 hours per week / 5 days = 7.6 hours per day).

The decision has caused confusion for employers as it deviates from a commonly understood approach for calculating Personal Leave. In response the Australian Government has announced that it will seek leave, in the High Court, to appeal the decision.

Background Section 96 of the Act, states: (1) For each year of service with his or her employer, an employee is entitled to 10 days of paid personal/carer’s leave.

(2) An employee’s entitlement to paid personal/ carer’s leave accrues progressively during a year of service according to the employee’s ordinary hours of work, and accumulates from year to year.

Two employees of Mondelez Australia Pty Ltd (Mondelez), a Cadbury manufacturing plant in Tasmania, who worked 12-hour shifts three times per week, were entitled to 96 hours of paid Personal Leave per year of service under their enterprise agreement.

When the employees took paid Personal Leave, Mondelez would deduct 12 hours from their

accrued Personal Leave balance. Based on this approach, the employees would only accrue enough Personal Leave over the course of a year to be absent for eight days of 12-hour shifts.

The dispute between the parties was whether Mondelez’s calculation of Personal Leave was inconsistent with the Act and whether the employees were instead entitled to accrue 10 days of Personal Leave per year of service paid at 12-hours a day.

Argument Mondelez argued that the entitlement to 10 days Personal Leave under the Act is calculated by reference to a “notional day” being the average daily ordinary hours based on a standard five-day working week (eg. a full time employee who works 38 hours per week would accrue 76 hours of paid Personal Leave over the course of a year).

Based on this approach, Mondelez believed the employees’ entitlement to 96 hours of paid Personal Leave per year of service under the enterprise agreement was more beneficial compared to the Act. The Australian Manufacturing Workers Union (Union) who represented the employees argued that the employees should be entitled to be absent from work without loss of pay for 10 “calendar days” (ie. a 24-hour period) of Personal Leave per year. Meaning that the employees should be paid for the hours that they would have worked on that day but for the Personal Leave.

The Decision The majority of the Full Court did not accept either party’s interpretation of “day” but held: …in s 96(1) of the FW Act, “day” is used in the specific context of an authorised absence

from work. In that context, its natural and ordinary meaning is not a bare 24 hour period, but the portion of a 24 hour period that would otherwise be allotted to working. A “day” consisting of the portion of a 24 hour period that would otherwise be allotted to working may conveniently be described as a “working day”. The natural and ordinary meaning of “10 days of paid personal/carer’s leave” in s 96(1) is authorised absence from work for ten such “working days”….

The effect of this decision is that the Mondelez employees should be entitled to accrue 10 days of Personal Leave per year of service paid at 12hours a day.

Appeal Mondelez and the Australian Government have confirmed that they will seek leave to appeal the decision.

Subject to the outcome of an appeal, the decision has significant costs implications (including back pay claims). Employer Assist will keep members updated on the status of the appeal.

In the meantime, employers should review their processes for accruing and paying Personal Leave considering the decision. This will be most relevant for employers who engage shift workers or employees working more that 7.6 ordinary hours per day.

This article is intended for information purposes only and should not be regarded as legal advice.

Please contact Employer Assist for specific advice.

AAAA Member Benefits Employer Assist provides AAAA members with advice on workplace relations and employment law matters.

Please contact Employer Assist on 1300 735 306 or aaaa@employerassist.com.au if you have any questions about the content of this article or if you require any assistance with your business.

Emma Dalley and the Employer Assist team.

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine October 2019

109

CONSUMER LAW

GIFT CARDS: MANDATORY THREE-YEAR REDEMPTION PERIOD All gift cards issued on or after 1 November 2019 must comply with new Australian Consumer Law (ACL) requirements The Competition and Consumer Act 2010 (Cth) (Act) provides penalties for non-compliance with the new ACL requirements around gift cards. An overview of the new requirements are: • Gift cards must be valid for at least three years; • There are requirements on how the expiry period is to be expressed; • No post-supply fees may be charged; and • Some terms and conditions relating to gift cards are prohibited.

What is a gift card?

A gift card is an item commonly known as a gift card or gift voucher that can be used to redeem goods or services. A gift card can be in physical or electronic form.

The Competition and Consumer Regulations 2010 (Cth) (Regulations) specify that the following are not a gift card: • Items, such as a card, used to purchase goods or services, which can be reloaded with value by the user (so that the available redeemable value is increased); • Items, such as a card, that are redeemable for electricity, gas or a telecommunication services (note that this exemption does not apply to cards or vouchers for music streaming, video or game services).

Items such as, ‘buy a certain number get one free’-style customer loyalty cards (for example, coffee cards), credit, charge or debit cards, public transport tickets and cashless welfare cards are not gift cards.

Gift card validity must be at least three years On and after 1 November 2019, gift cards must be valid for at least three years. On and after this date it will be prohibited under the ACL to supply gift cards that are not redeemable for at least three years from the day the gift card was supplied to the customer.

What if I supply a gift card with less than three years validity on or after 1 November 2019?

If a gift card is supplied from 1 November 2019 with a validity period of less than three years the card will be taken to have a three year redemption period regardless of any other validity period provided on the gift card.

Despite this automatic conversion to a three year redemption period, suppliers should supply gift cards with the correct validity period. This is because from 1 November 2019 penalties may 110

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine October 2019

be imposed on the supplier of a gift card with a validity period of less than three years.

How should the three year validity period be expressed?

The three year validity period must be displayed prominently on the card by setting out: • The date the validity period ends; • The month and year the validity period ends; • The date the gift card is supplied, or the month and year the gift card was supplied, and a statement identifying the redemption period; or • The words ‘no expiry date” or similar words.

Post-supply fee not allowed A person must not demand or receive, or have terms and conditions that require, a post-supply fee to be paid in relation to the gift card. A postsupply fee is a fee or charge that must be paid after the gift card is supplied to the customer.

The Regulations specify fees that are not postsupply fees and these include, a booking fee (that is substantially the same as a booking fee for other payment methods) and a fee for re-issuing a lost or stolen gift card.

Some gift card terms and conditions void A term or condition of a gift card is void if the term or condition has the effect of: • Allowing or requiring a post-supply fee; or • Reducing the validity period of the gift card to less than three years.

In addition to the term or condition being void a penalty may be imposed on the supplier where such terms and conditions apply to a gift card.

Exemptions There are some exemptions to the requirement for the minimum three year validity period (and terms and conditions having the effect of reducing the three year validity period). By way of example: • Gift cards that pertain to a specific good or service that is available for a specified period or that is supplied at a discount to the market value; • Gift cards that are supplied for a temporary marketing promotion to a purchaser of goods or services in connection with the purchase of goods or services, or that are part of an employee reward scheme or customer loyalty program.

The above is not a complete description of the exemptions. It is recommended that advice

is sought to determine if a three year validity exemption applies to a particular circumstance.

Non-Compliance The failure of a supplier to comply with the ACL gift card requirements may incur a penalty, as follows: • The ACCC may issue an infringement notice, carrying a financial penalty of 55 penalty units for a body corporate (currently totaling $11,550), and 11 penalty units for an individual (currently totaling $2,310); • The court may impose a maximum criminal or civil penalty of $30,000 for a body corporate or $6,000 for an individual.

Takeaways The key takeaways are to ensure the following items are attended to before 1 November 2019: • The validity period for all gift cards is at least three years and prominently displayed on the gift card as required by the ACL; • A post-supply fee is not demanded or contained in the gift card terms and conditions; and • Gift card terms and conditions do not have the effect of reducing the three-year validity period or imposing a post-supply fee.

AAAA Member Benefits Industry Legal Group provides advice to members on commercial law matters.

If you have any questions relating to the above case, please contact Industry Legal Group on 1300 369 703 or aaaa@industrylegalgroup.com.au

INSIDE INVENTORY

SUPPORT WAREHOUSES In this article, Horizon Inventory takes a look at the role supporting warehouses can play in assisting you to service your customers Servicing customers can be challenging. When do they need stock? Immediately some say. “I have to able to hand it over the counter when they walk in or they will walk straight out,” say some branch staff. Did I hear you say “all staff”?

Now if every customer wants all of the stock within minutes of a request this can be especially difficult and require a LOT of inventory which is often just too big an investment hurdle.

Normally you will hold stock locally at a branch or back at the DC. There is however a third option to hold some stock at what we call a supporting warehouse – as the Beatles remind us, we can get by with a little help from our friends.

Supported and Supporting Warehouses Now what do we mean by a supporting warehouse and how does a supported branch or warehouse take advantage of this support?

You start by determining the service level required at the branch. This sets a min/max stock level and the branch requires regular replenishments from a central DC. At the branch you might set the desired service level at 90 percent as you believe or have evidence to suggest that 10 percent of the orders will not be required over the counter.

This situation often means you can get by with significantly less stock at the branch, however, the 10 percent needs to come from a supporting warehouse (typically a nominated branch on inventory steroids) that is sufficiently close in order to satisfy your customers’ delivery window expectations.

In this scenario, the demand represented by the 10 percent of orders is placed upon the supporting warehouse. This sort of strategy works especially well when the variability of demand is very high and you have a warehouse supporting multiple branches. The variability will be smoothed at the supporting warehouse, reducing the inventory risk.

This approach requires substantially less safety stock at the supporting warehouse and certainly a lot less than if you had carried all of the safety stock at the supported warehouses individually.

Supported by knowledge Several factors are important to consider here.

Some products are required and expected to be immediately available. If you wish to compete for this business then you must be able to provide the stock when it is required. If the part is for a breakdown then the requirement tends to be immediate or very quick at least, so stock right at the point of purchase may be your only option.

Fortunately not every product is expected to be available over the counter, or at least there may be some customers who are less demanding and are able to wait. These products can present the opportunity to stock at least some of the stock upstream or at a nearby supporting warehouse from whence you have time to access the remote stock.

At the end of the day, everything has a price and if people want products immediately then they are often prepared to pay a premium for that level of service. Similarly as a supplier, stocking large lots of stock very close to the customer can mean exorbitant inventory costs. There is a balance point obviously, and the optimum will depend on the way different customers and different types of product behave.

Of course, you have to recognise that at times you will “sing out of key” and things won’t all work out, but a prudent strategy and a prudent balancing of where you put the inventory at the supported branches and the supporting warehouse can mean you can get higher service levels, much more cost effectively, with a little help from your friendly supporting warehouses.

Supported by modelling

that is “higher” up the chain takes advantage of the Sum of Variances rule (in lay terms, pooled inventory risk) and the same applies here. If you have as few as four to five branches being supported by another warehouse, then it is quite likely that you can reduce your total stock by a third to a half. You can take the below scenario as an example: • A very slow mover that sells perhaps one unit every few months.

• If you want to achieve a 90 percent service level then a min/max of one might be perfectly OK, but if you want a 95 percent service level then you might need two units of stock at every branch.

• If however you use a supporting warehouse strategy then you can just carry one unit of stock at each branch and perhaps two to four at the supporting warehouse: a net reduction in stock of around a third.

So is it worth doing? How many thousand SKUs could benefit from that sort of support strategy?

The inventory savings are likely to be high.

How much will the emergency stock transfers from the supporting warehouse to the supported warehouses cost? Model it – easy!

Support teamwork

We are sure you get the idea, but you are probably already thinking of the complications, such as what service level should I aim for at the supported warehouse? Well, that’s easy and will be driven by customer delivery expectations.

When it comes to questions like what service level do I need at the supporting warehouse, that is fairly easy too – you model it.

Using modelling you can easily answer what level of stock ought to be available in the supporting warehouse and then ultimately what level of stock might have to be sourced from the main DC. This requires balancing your inventory carrying cost against your emergency stock transfer costs – a couple of model iterations and out will pop the right answer and the benefits can be large indeed.

If you look back to our July 2016 AAA Magazine article, entitled Swings and Roundabouts, you will remember that carrying stock at a place

Remember in 1967 when Ringo sang about getting a little help from his friends, he also sang: “What would you think if I sang out of tune?

Would you stand up and walk out on me?”

Well things do fall apart if people do not play their part. If the supporting warehouse/branch does not release stock to the supported branch then confidence in the system and your supply chain strategy will fail. If your stock accuracy is poor and when people call for stock, they find it is not there, the notes you will hear will definitely be off key. And if the supporting warehouse does not move quickly to confirm that the stock has been despatched promptly, then people will revert to past hoarding behaviours, which could cost you a lot.

So, might it be worth looking at your current strategy and perhaps considering a support strategy? Do you have some customers and some products where it might work? You might just find that you can achieve higher service levels with less stock.

For further information consult www.horizoninventory.com.au or email info@horizoninventory.com.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine October 2019

111

PERFORMANCE AND RACING

TURBOSMART GEARING UP FOR SEMA 2019 After winning Best New Product Award in 2018, Turbosmart is heading back to SEMA Turbosmart will once again head to SEMA in 2019, marking a second-year appearance in the Central Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Centre.

The SEMA Show, which will take place across November 5-8, is the premier automotive specialty trade show across the globe. In 2018, it hosted more than 70,000 guests.

For Turbosmart, it also marked the first year the company was able to take out the top prize for a coveted Best New Product Award with the Universal EM-BOV winning the PerformanceStreet category.

DRIFTING SUCCESS ACL is enjoying a successful partnership with top Irish drifters ACL Bearing Company (Australia) has a long association with Motorsport in Australia, with its roots in the 1960s with the development of the legendary Repco Brabham.

In addition to the company’s involvement with Supercars team Kelly Racing, in recent years ACL has become heavily involved with Drifting in Europe.

ACL has partnerships with top Irish drivers Jack Shanahan, Conor Shanahan and James Deane in the European, British and Irish Series.

In the recently completed Drift Masters European Championship, the ACL drivers had great success with James Deane winning the championship with fellow countrymen Jack Shanahan finishing second and brother Conor Shanahan finishing ninth to round out the results. The last round was held at Modello Park, Ireland, the home track for the drivers.

European title – a fantastic achievement, says ACL. “We are very pleased to add Drifting to our Motorsport portfolios in recent years,” ACL General Manager, Chris Brooks, said.

“Drifting has a very passionate and loyal following throughout Europe and the UK. Our partnerships complement our increased market penetration in this region.

“All drivers are great ambassadors for their sport and ACL and we are very proud to be associated with them.”

The strong individual performances also enabled Ireland to comfortably win the 2019 DMEC For more information on ACL RACE Series Performance Nations Cup. For Championship winner James Engine Bearings, contact ACL at Deane it is his second consecutive DMEC www.aclperformance.com.au

TOTAL PASSION FOR SUPERCARS Total Oil has become the Official Lubricant Partner of the Vodafone Gold Coast 600 “2018 was indescribable. If you tried to sum up what SEMA meant to us last year, you really couldn’t put the feeling into words,” Turbosmart USA General Manager and VP, Marty Staggs, said.

“We are still so humbled by the fact that our business is seen as the best in not just forced induction, but performance products for street cars as a whole by such a prestigious and highly respected organisation.”

While last year was a big one for Turbosmart at SEMA, 2019 shows no signs of slowing down for the team as the business focuses on continuing to drive its presence at the show with a refreshed sense of achievement.

With a full range of products and a newly designed display, the team will be ready to speak to customers, educate people and provide inside tips and knowledge on the extensive range of Turbosmart’s forced induction accessories at booth 21551 in the Racing and Performance section of the Central Hall.

If you would like more information about Turbosmart products, email sales@turbosmart.com.au 112

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine October 2019

They are excited to announce their partnership with Supercars by becoming the Official Lubricant Partner of the Vodafone Gold Coast 600 race in October 2019.

Total Lubricants has a long history in motorsport both globally and also in Australia. Involvement in motorsport is a large part of Total’s brand presence in Australia, allowing it to showcase its ongoing support and commitment to the Australian lubricant market.

2019 is an exciting year for Total Oil Australia as it is marks its first step into the prestigious Supercars racing category – the most popular motorsport category in the country. Supercars are reportedly equally excited with the partnership opportunity.

“We are delighted to welcome Total Oil Australia as the Official Lubricant Partner of the Vodafone Gold Coast 600 this year. It is fantastic for us to have such a global and iconic brand involved in the sport and the event,” Supercars General Manager Commercial, Jamie Black, said.

The partnership will see full Total Lubricants branding on the track’s infamous beach chicane, where all the action and excitement will take place.

“Total is synonymous with Motorsport around the world, having being part of some of the greatest victories in our global partnerships with the 24 Hours of Le Mans, World Endurance Championships and World Rally Championships,” Total Oil Australia Managing Director, Andrew Murchie, said.

“We are proud to be the Official Lubricant Partner where key attributes of performance and endurance in our products are showcased in the sport.”

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

PERFORMANCE AND RACING

THE WORLD’S FASTEST STREET LEGAL TYRE Michelin says its Pilot Sport Cup 2 tyre has just earned this title A Bugatti Chiron fitted with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tyres has become the first near production car in the world to break the 300mph barrier, after reaching an independently verified speed of 304.773mph (490.484km/h).

The record-breaking achievement was reached in August, with Bugatti test driver Andy Wallace behind the wheel of the Chiron at Bugatti’s EhraLessien test track in Northern Germany.

Michelin says the Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tyres used for the record were very similar to the regular OE tyres. They are marked ‘BG’, meaning they can only be fitted to the Bugatti, and they are completely street legal – the only difference is that the casing belts of the tyres used on the record-breaking Chiron were reinforced, specifically to handle the 5,300g which the tyres must withstand at these very high speeds.

During the development of the Pilot Sport Cup 2 tyres which were designed specifically for the Bugatti Chiron, Michelin used its Technology Center in Ladoux, France, and its site in Charlotte SC, USA where specialist machinery was employed to carry out the most extreme tests on the tyres.

In order to test the tyres at the extreme speeds that the Bugatti Chiron is capable of, Michelin used a test machine which was designed to test tyres fitted to the Space Shuttle, and can test at up to 510km/h.

“Michelin is very proud to have been an integral part of this record and it is the fruit of the relationship between us and Bugatti which stretches back almost 20 years,” Michelin Bugatti tyre design team leader, Pierre Chandezon, said.

“With this in mind, it was the trust built up over this time that gave Bugatti

the confidence to allow Michelin to develop the sole original equipment fitment tyres for the Chiron.”

For this exceptional vehicle, Michelin and Bugatti engineers collaborated on the joint development of the tyres and the chassis, making the most of cutting-edge casing designs, materials and the latest production techniques.

This simultaneous co-development of the tyre and the car brought together the optimum levels of tyre performance for the Bugatti Chiron.

In addition to their exceptional speed capability and their high safety levels, Michelin says the Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tyres also contribute to the comfort of the car on the road so Bugatti Chiron owners can enjoy this prestigious supercar in all driving conditions.

For more information, visit www.michelin.com

UPGRADE YOUR BMW M3 With upgrades from Xtreme Clutch Xtreme Clutch, the performance street and motorsport division of Australian Clutch Services, has recently launched a new range of upgrades to suit the BMW E90 M3.

Included in the range are several options designed to suit high performance street use as well as specific motorsport applications.

The performance kits include a 184mm twin plate ceramic for motorsport applications where throttle response is critical, a 200mm twin plate ceramic for circuit racing and rally as well as two 230mm options in organic and ceramic for high performance street and high horsepower motorsport applications respectively.

Each kit has been designed and engineered in-house at Xtreme Clutch and has been developed specifically to ensure the highest levels of quality, performance and durability for their specific applications.

The kits also include everything required for the installation such as a performance flywheel, lightweight alloy pressure plate, friction discs, bearings, bolts and an alignment tool.

“Our new performance clutch upgrades for the E90 M3 are designed to provide a clutch solution for any vehicle application,” Xtreme Clutch Mechanical Engineer, Stewart Furze, said.

“As these vehicles are commonly used for everything from dedicated motorsport applications through to daily drivers, we developed several options for motorsport as well as a twin plate organic upgrade for high horsepower street use.”

The new kits offer a significant increase in torque capacity (up to 1830 Nm of torque) and include a single-mass flywheel conversion, making them ideal for highly modified cars that exceed the limits of the factory clutch setup.

“These kits are designed for vehicles that have been significantly modified or that require a higher heat capacity for motorsport applications,” Stewart said.

“Our kits are also engineered to provide a lightweight package to improve throttle response.”

Also available are a variety of different accessories including a replacement master cylinder and slave cylinder.

For more information on the range, please visit www.xtremeclutch.com.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine October 2019

113

4WD

ARB RELEASES TAILGATE ASSIST FOR HILUX SR AND SR5 The popular car is getting a helping hand ARB says it is proud to announce the newly released Tailgate Assist for HiLux SR and SR5 2015+ models.

Cleverly designed with a combination of dampening strut and torsion spring, ARB says the Tailgate Assist helps the user control the opening speed and reduce the effort required to close by over 50 percent – perfect for those times when you wish you had an extra set of hands.

Unlike previous models of Tailgate Assist, this version utilises a torsion spring to assist closing rather than spring assist struts.

The torsion spring runs across the lower edge of the tailgate due to the limited space where the regular assist strut would normally be mounted.

BIG LIGHT WITH MODERN LOOKS Narva launches 5 ¾ ” LED Headlamp Inserts Narva says it is giving owners of older vehicles a way of dramatically increasing their light output while lifting vehicle appearance with the release of new 5 ¾” LED Headlamp Inserts.

The inserts are a direct replacement for halogen inserts and come with a H4 connector, making them easy to retrofit to a wide range of vehicles.

Styled with a black chrome finish and featuring the latest LED technology including precision freeform optics, the LED inserts produce a brilliant white light (6000°K) which closely resembles natural daytime conditions.

Available in two variants, the 72110 model includes high/low beam, Daylight Running Light (DRL) and position light pipe functions, while the 72144 variant features high beam and directional indicator functions. Both models are fully sealed and weatherproof (IP68 and IP69K) and benefit from heavy duty construction incorporating impactresistant polycarbonate lenses to protect against damage from deflecting rocks and roadside debris.

Also ensuring longevity is a specially-designed housing made of die-cast aluminium which is corrosion and impact resistant, while solid state

LED construction means there are no filaments or bulb tubes to worry about. Further protection is provided by the lamps’ built-in reverse polarity, over-voltage protection and an active thermal management system. For added versatility, the lamps’ multi-volt design (9-33V) makes them compatible with both 12 and 24 volt electrical systems.

Narva’s new 5 ¾” LED Headlamp Inserts are also EMR-R10 and CISPR 25-approved and backed by a five-year LED warranty. For vehicle owners with seven-inch headlamp inserts, Narva also offers this larger diameter LED headlamp insert.

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

CARBON WINCHES CELEBRATES The company is celebrating three years with strong export growth

Factory tailgate limit straps are replaced with cables to allow sufficient clearance of moving parts with additional anti-wear pads included to avoid paint rub.

ARB says the unique ball and socket design of the dampening strut mounts plays an integral role in achieving long service life as they allow for naturally occurring misalignment of the moving parts.

ARB’s engineers reportedly designed and tested the product to over 40,000 cycles over 18 months, equating to around 20 years of service life to the average consumer.

Tailgate Assist for HiLux SR and SR5 2015+ retails at $299 Australian East Coast metro and is in stores now.

For more information, visit www.arb.com.au 114

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine October 2019

July 2019 saw Carbon Winches celebrate three years in the Australian market.

Carbon Winches says that alongside excellent growth and brand recognition in the retail market, along with superior customer service, technical and parts support, the trade sector has also shown strong awareness of the benefits of becoming a Carbon Winch dealer with more than 100 outlets now stocking the product nationwide.

With distribution outlets in Dubai and the Netherlands resulting from attendance at Automechanika Dubai over the last two years, Carbon Winches states its global export program is growing solidly through its commitments to quality, pricing and service.

Carbon Winches has also been awarded an Innovation Connections Federal Government grant and will soon begin a R&D program to further its knowledge and experience in materials technology for the 4WD sector.

The company says the Carbon Winch CW-12k maintains the position as the lightest weight winch in the market with additional included features such as a motor breather kit; battery isolator switch kit; four mounting positions of the control box on the winch; the release of optional

extras including specific control box mounting brackets to suit ARB Summit Bars; flush mount wired remote plug extension kits; and dual layer braided sheath dyneema winch rope.

Carbon Winches says the brand covers all of the common fitment issues that absorb valuable labour time during fitment and regular issues that the local environment demands on the product.

Carbon Winches also maintains “superior” stock levels making sure that retail and trade markets have access to stock at all times. 2020 will see the release of a new marine trailer winch along with upgrade components to existing product lines.

For further information, please call 1300 780 141 or contact info@kpdindustries.com.au for trade inquiries or visit www.carbinwinches.com.au

4WD

TJM MOD X DRAWERS An innovative new drawer system combining a sleek design with market-leading features TJM 4x4 Equipped has announced the arrival of what it calls an innovative new drawer system that combines a sleek design with market-leading features: Mod X. Featuring a flush front face design that’s backed by premium materials and a 150kg load rating per drawer, TJM says its Mod X Drawers are the perfect complement to your 4WD. Plus, because they’re available for 10 vehicle models and with more development planned for the range, it is easy to make room for more in your 4x4 with TJM Mod X Drawers.

Sleek yet tough design TJM Mod X Drawers combine a sleek factory look with high-end performance. A 150kg load rating for each drawer allows you to pack heavy items and access them with ease, all of which is possible thanks to Mod X’s purpose-built construction.

Built around a galvanised steel frame, each drawer contains high-grade, rattle-free coated steel runners and housings as well as a UV and water-resistant marine ply top – which is then

finished with highly durable low-pile carpet.

Mod X Drawers also feature a flush front face design with no protruding edges, which are crowned by a tough ABS handle and latching system custom designed by TJM. This unique system not only ensures your cargo remains secure, but it also delivers up to five percent more usable storage space compared to other systems on the market.

Packed with innovative features TJM Mod X Drawers come with clever features to make life easy whether you’re at home, at work or at play. Thanks to its unique and easyto-use braking system, you can keep individual drawers open at any position with minimal effort and maximum safety when you’ve only got one hand free – preventing accidental roll-out or unnecessary effort on slopes.

In addition, Mod X’s Drawer Safety Gaps means you or your children are protected from injury when closing drawers with your hand placed on top of the drawer.

Tried and tested to the limit To create a drawer system that integrates seamlessly into your vehicle, TJM Mod X Drawers have been tested with longevity and functionality in mind. This means they’re Australian Design Rule compliant (ADR) for Seats and Anchorages, Child Restraint Anchorages and General Safety Requirements. In addition to this, they boast an AS-approved 150kg load rating that gives you more packing potential.

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

SEE THE LIGHT New LED lights and wiring looms are now available from Ironman 4x4 Ironman 4x4 says its new LED light range provides a variety of lighting options to suit all your driving light needs.

Ironman 4x4 lights are designed and engineered to meet the demanding conditions of off road and on road travel.

Using the latest technology, featuring Osram LEDs, Ironman 4x4 says these lights are brighter and more efficient than ever before, increasing visibility and reaction time and keeping you and your passengers safer.

The new lights are manufactured from diecast alloy housing built to withstand hours of corrugations and extreme conditions, featuring shockproof polycarbonate lenses and high-quality reflectors for ultimate performance.

For information on the full range, visit www.ironman4x4.com Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine October 2019

115

4WD

FREE 4WD WIPER LOCK IN A GOOD DEAL an ARB Air Locker and get a free Air BLADE SAMPLES Buy Compressor and Pump Up Kit FROM WIPERTECH Wipertech says it has wiper blades for every 4WD Online wiper blade supplier Wipertech has announced the launch of a new 4WD specific wiper blade catalogue.

To celebrate the launch of its new catalogue and its recent 10,000th Five-Star online review, Wipertech is offering AAAA readers a chance to trial its blades on their 4WD (or any car), with a no-obligation free sample.

Wipertech has been supplying wiper blades and accessories online for the last 10 years. In this time, its also reportedly supplied around 10 percent of Australian car dealerships, and in the last two years has launched a Multi-Fit product for mechanics.

Imagine this...you’re in the bush with your mates, you come around a corner and see a massive rocky track you just have to conquer.

Halfway up, your wheel leaves the ground and you’re thinking, ‘this is awesome,’ but, you’re not going any further. Flick the switch, your locker engages and you sail on up. No dramas – right?

ARB explains that with an open diff, and a wheel in the air, the vehicle will send all of the drive to the wheel with least resistance – meaning the wheel in the air – which will get you nowhere fast.

When you have diff lockers, they will force the drive to both wheels, allowing you to get further, says ARB. ARB explains its ARB Air Lockers provide instant engagement at up to 100km/h, meaning you can

have confidence that you will be all locked up when you need to be.

If you head into any ARB store or participating stockist between before the 30th of November, ARB will supply a free Air Compressor and Pump Up Kit with any Air Locker purchase.

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

BROWN & WATSON INTERNATIONAL AWARDED AGAIN The company has taken back-to-back stand awards at National 4X4 Show

“We were getting requests from workshop customers who specialise in 4WDs for a 4WD specific catalogue,” Wipertech Marketing Manager, Sean Bolger, said.

“They were suggesting a catalogue would help them manage their inventory, as the last thing they’d want is to run out of stock of blade sizes for a 200 Series Cruiser or a Patrol.

“The great thing about Wipertech’s Multi-Fit range is it’s been designed specifically for workshops that see a variety of vehicles. The blades will fit 98 percent of vehicles (4WD or otherwise).

“We get feedback that it really simplifies replacing wipers on cars that come into workshops. Instead of ordering parts on the spot, our workshop customers just grab the right size off their rack and change them over right away.”

The free (no obligation) ‘Made for Mechanics’ 4WD Wiper Blade Sample Pack is available now and includes Multi-Fit Wiper Blades, six and eight mm Metal Backed Refills and Washer Jet Tablets.

Contact Wipertech for your free sample on 1300 778 502 or sales@wipertech.com.au 116

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine October 2019

Brown and Watson International won the ‘Best Stand over 100m² Award’ at the recent National 4x4 Outdoors Show, Fishing and Boating Expo; making it two years in a row for the Narva and Projecta brands.

The stand impressed judges with a combination of innovative new products, interactive exhibits and displays of two fully equipped Ford Raptor and Ranger vehicles. Adding to the experience was a camping theme including a mock campfire.

On show was the latest Narva equipment including an extensive display of ALS (Advanced Lighting Systems) products including utility lights, head and pen torches and audio lights.

Narva’s wide range of work lamps, driving lights and LED bars were also strongly represented including the Ultima LED range and the latest Explora LED light bar models, one of which was given away as a prize on each day of the show.

Making a return to the 4x4 Show was Narva’s popular Virtual Reality (VR) driving light experience, which provided attendees with a realistic demonstration of Narva’s lighting capabilities across a variety of road conditions.

Sleek new interactive product demonstration pods also showcased the full range of Narva driving lights, light bars, OEM style switches and lighting accessories.

Projecta’s side of the stand was just as eyecatching and included a caravan cutaway fitted with the INTELLI-RV Power Management System, demonstrating how the owner could manage all of the caravan’s lighting and electrical features from a set of controls on a nearby plinth. Also on display for Projecta was a range of solar panels, inverters, dual battery systems and jump starters.

Attracting considerable attention were the campready Narva and Projecta vehicles. The Projecta Ranger showed this vehicle’s open canopy which was equipped with a comprehensive and neat fit out of Projecta products including inverter, battery monitors, lithium DC/DC charger and other power equipment. The Narva Raptor demonstrated a bevy of lighting products including Ultima 180 and 215 LED driving lights, Explora LED light bars, a DRL/fog light bar and work lamps, along with various Heavy Duty RV power accessories and Narva’s OEM style switches.

For more from Narva and Projecta, go to www.narva.com.au and www.projecta.com.au