Australian Automotive Aftermarket eMagazine - September 2018

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FROM THE FIELD TO THE WORKSHOP, A CAREER IN THE MAKING

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ALL THE LATEST ON ACCESSORIES & CAR CARE

INDEPENDENT REPAIRER BUSINESS CONTINUES TO GROW AND STRENGTHEN

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ABOUT THE COVER TECTALOY: Australia's best range of ready to use pre-mix and concentrate coolants.

With The Tectaloy ULMTD range, you can really go the distance, lasting 10 years or up to 1,000,000 kms.

REGULAR DEPARTMENTS AAAA Report .........................................4 Calendar................................................6 New Members ........................................6 News.....................................................7 Products..............................................26 Business Services.................................92

HR Matters ..........................................93 Consumer Law .....................................94 Inside Inventory ...................................95 PRTC ..................................................96 4WD ...................................................98 Retail................................................100

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KEEPING YOU INFORMED Continental acquires Kmart Tyre & Auto Service ............................................................7 AAAA & CIAA clarify current 4wd upgrade rule status.....................................................8 Why young Australians are the customer of the future for independent mechanics ..........10 Independent repairer business continues to grow and strengthen...................................11 Capricorn Rising Stars winner announced....................................................................12 Autoguru recognises its top mechanics .......................................................................17 Burson Auto Parts reaches 170 stores nationwide ........................................................17 ACS Expands R&D Fleet ............................................................................................18

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FEATURES Case Study: Autologic on Mercedes .............................................................................19 Cover Feature: Tectaloy Coolant: a strong part of the ITW AAMTech family.......................20 R&D: Denso: Why Injectors Wear.................................................................................24 Member Feature: MSA 4X4: An industry leader in storage solutions.................................60 Cooling: Keeping engines cool ....................................................................................62 Accessories & Car Care: All the latest on accessories & car care .....................................76 Future Auto Innovations: State of the battery: soon to be solid .........................................86 Trade Talk: AASDN WA members unite for the greater good ...........................................88 In the Workshop: From the field to the workshop, a career in the making .........................90

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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

Official publication of the AAAA

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

ADVERTISING Tel 61 3 9545 3333

NATIONAL ADVERTISING MANAGER 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.

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AAAA NEWS

WORKSHOP BUSINESS CONFIDENCE STUDY NOW RELEASED Hot on the heels of AAAA’s detailed consumer insights survey, the results of the inaugural Automotive Workshop Business Confidence study are in We are very pleased to be able to release the findings of another comprehensive study conducted for the AAAA on behalf of our members.

The inaugural Automotive Workshop Business Confidence study was independently conducted for the AAAA by ACA Research, and its findings follow quickly on from those of the detailed consumer insights survey which we shared with you in our last edition of AAA Magazine.

The point of this research was to assess the feelings of workshop owners and managers around business performance and management, as well as current and future trends in the market.

Interviews were conducted via telephone between March 14 and April 27 of this year.

We were very pleased to hear that AAAA members reported they appreciate the information they receive from AAAA about the latest industry trends, and that they also value our action in lobbying for their interests. We will certainly continue fighting for you, and ensuring you have access to up to date information to make decisions about your business.

As with our consumer insights study, the full results of this Automotive Workshop Business Confidence survey are available free of charge to all AAAA members, however we wanted to cover off on some of the key highlights here. You can also read more about the report findings on page 11 of this magazine.

Who was surveyed Two hundred and fifty independent Australian automotive service and repair workshop owners and senior management across Australia – including all states and a mix of metro and regional areas – took part, making it the first research study of this magnitude conducted by the AAAA. The majority had three or more service bays, and one in three workshops were servicing more than 120 vehicles a month, indicating a healthy level of demand.

Business performance The research found that many workshop owners feel positive about the health of their business, with nearly eight in 10 stating their business has either maintained demand or enjoyed a growth over the past year. Overall it’s a story of optimism; 44 percent reported an increase in the number of vehicles serviced in the last 12 months. About 20 percent of workshops were experiencing a year on year decrease – these are the workshops that are going to need additional services and support over the next five years if these workshops are going to remain viable in the medium term.

Looking to the future independent repairers are optimistic about the outlook for the year ahead, with just under half (48 percent) expecting demand to grow further while only six percent said they expected a decrease in demand. The rest (45 percent) noted they expect growth to be generally static in nature over the coming year.

Those that are expecting growth reported they felt this would be primarily driven through increased marketing efforts (21 percent) and building on positive recommendations (20 percent). The addition of more staff and/or expansion of the business was also noted as a possible driver of growth for 14 percent of respondents. It was positive to see that many of these workshop owners are actively working to create growth.

Are you a ‘Leader’, ‘Business-as-Usual’, or ‘At Risk’?

ACA Research indexed previous growth against expected growth to identify three segments within the research sample; ‘leaders’, ‘business-as-usual’ and ‘at risk’. From this data, almost half of Australian independent workshops are operating on a business-as-usual approach, while the leaders were more likely to be early adopters of market trends and more effective at generating higher levels of business activity within their workshops.

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Profiling of these segments saw the leaders more likely to be larger businesses, whereas those in the at risk category were more likely to work in smaller operations found in metro areas, typically sourcing a higher proportion of their business from private customers.

Leaders and business-as-usual workshops appeared slightly more effective at picking up business customers. Leaders also tended to be younger, but were less likely to be the business owner. They also potentially have more structured administrative systems while employing higher numbers of qualified or apprentice mechanics.

Business Challenges Attracting and retaining good mechanics, as well as keeping up-to-date with the latest technologies – including getting access to technical repair and service information – were noted amongst the most important challenges for workshops.

Staff retention was found to be a particularly important challenge for leaders, whereas ‘at risk’ workshops were more likely to be worried about competition from dealerships and a slowing economy. It was noted that independent workshops believe their expertise and quality customer service sets them apart from dealerships, which is why staff retention is so important.

It was common for those at risk to blame external factors for business decline, potentially indicating that they may not be taking action to overcome the issues they are facing.

Despite these challenges, almost half (43 percent) of business owners were not undertaking any active planning on how they will secure the future of their business. This lack of proactivity is concerning, with the mechanical services industry continuing to evolve at a rapid rate.

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AAAA NEWS Thirty one percent noted they are investing in new technology, while 24 percent said they were trying to expand their business. Leaders were found to be more likely to have plans to achieve business growth, which could explain their greater optimism. At the same time, those at risk appeared to be focused on preparing for the worst.

When it came to using business performance metrics, one in four were found to have a job profit target, while slightly fewer set job utilisation targets. We believe setting targets for job profit and job utilisation will be important if workshops are to secure the business growth and profitability that they expect and need for the future.

When ACA Research reflected on businesses with active business planning, leaders were found to be more likely to be using targets to manage business performance and to be more strategic in preparing for the business growth they expect, particularly looking to utilisation targets.

Among those looking to exit their business, the majority were of the view that the business will be sold which assumes a level of interest in someone taking over the workshop although only a third were found to have an action plan in place. ACA Research warns that many of those without a plan may ultimately end up simply closing the workshop.

Two in five reported they own the land that their business is located on, with the land value found to be generally more than the business value.

Those that did own the land were reported to be less likely to be motivated to sell.

Leaders (and to an extent those characterised as business-as-usual) certainly appear to be successfully picking up share in the growing sectors of the market and independent workshops were found to be picking up a higher share of diesel vehicles than national chains (36 percent compared to 20 percent) which given the growth in diesel vehicles within the Australian car parc, sees diesels underrepresented within national chain workshops.

Specialisation and servicing trends

Age of vehicles

From the research study we can see that half of independent workshops claim a specialisation.

Their speciality was found to be almost equally distributed between 4x4s (38 percent), diesel (36 percent) and European brands (34 percent). A further 10 percent specialised in hybrids/electric cars.

A change was also being reported in the age of vehicles being serviced, with two thirds (61 percent) of leaders reporting a larger number of younger vehicles in their workshop than previously. Forty-three percent of business-asusual mechanics reported no change, while 30 percent of at risk reported the vehicles they are servicing are getting older.

Leaders and larger workshops were also found to be more likely to be servicing vehicles within warranty and to also be the most successful at attracting customers with newer vehicles.

Reflecting the reported age of vehicles, logbook servicing and in-warranty servicing in the independent sector also appear to be on an upward trajectory, with leaders showing they have established customer trust in their ability to conduct services under warranty.

Interestingly, half of those who specialise claim to do so in three or more areas, suggesting their identification of ‘specialisation’ in these cases could be more of a marketing position than a genuine specialisation. Leaders were more likely to consider themselves specialists in a wider range of vehicles, and were found to be more confident than other segments when dealing with Euro brands and Hybrid/Electric vehicles.

Regardless of the actual level of specialisation, claimed expertise is an additional selling point that leaders may be using to attract more customers.

When it came to the types of vehicles increasing demand was reported for work on diesels, European brands and 4x4s, with these servicing demands reflecting the changing profile of the Australian car parc. Leaders in particular said they had noted an upsurge in demand for servicing both diesel and European vehicles.

Market perceptions Both workshop owners and customers were found to judge customer service, expertise and competitive pricing as key differentiators for workshops while leaders were more likely to emphasise the quality of their service as a choice driver.

Two in five workshops said they give customers a choice of parts to use when servicing vehicles, with those working in smaller workshops particularly

likely to do so. Workshops were reported to potentially view this as a service differentiator, as it demonstrates their flexibility in catering to customer requests. A high proportion (77 percent) of independent mechanics also said they will fit parts that customers supply. However, the proportion of customers reporting they source parts themselves remains very low, with most unlikely to go to this level of effort.

Looking across the market, independent workshop technicians and customers were aligned in their views with regard to the value for money that independent workshops offer over dealerships (and national chains). Seven percent of workshops and 33 percent of consumers classified independent workshops as expensive, compared to 87 percent of workshops and 83 percent of customers who classified car dealerships as expensive. Customers and workshops were also in agreement that independent workshops offer a better quality of work than dealerships (but customers see a smaller gap than workshops).

Access the full report This is just a quick overview at the findings from this very detailed benchmarking survey, but we hope it has given you an indication of what you can expect when accessing the full report.

To access your free copy of the report, AAAA members can contact Briana Bale in the National Office on 03 9545 3333 or email briana@aaaa.com.au

GRAHAM SCUDAMORE-SMITH President

STUART CHARITY Executive Director

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NEWS

NEW MEMBERS

CALENDAR

ASG 4x4 Australia 11 Mort Street TOOWOOMBA QLD 4350 Ph: 07 4638 1245 E: james@asg4x4.com.au

FluidDrive Holdings 70 Raglan Street PRESTON VIC 3072 Ph: 03 9485 9777 E: shaun.bucci@fluiddrive.com.au

Australian 4WD & Adventure Show Unit 9, 126 Broadway NEDLANDS WA 6009 Ph: 08 9386 9666 E: peter@premierproductions.com.au

Fudex Rubber Products (M) SDN BHD JA 9158 JAsin Industrial Park 77200 BEMBAN MELAKA Malaysia Ph: 6529 2229 E: cavin@fudex.com.my

Bob Jane T-Mart Dandenong 58-62 Lonsdale Street DANDENONG VIC 3175 Ph: 03 9793 4344 E: bjdandenong@tmarts.com.au

Gas Up 19 Collingwood Street ALBION QLD 4010 Ph: 07 3262 8550 E:jungle@gasup.com.au

Carline Bankstown 165 Eldridge Road BANKSTOWN NSW 2200 Ph: 02 9708 3088 E: info@budgetexhaust.net.au

HPSF Pty Ltd 16 Access Way CARRUM DOWNS VIC 3201 Ph: 03 9775 0898 E: mark@hpsf.com.au

Carline Brendale 613 Johnstone Road BRENDALE QLD 4500 Ph: 07 3467 0973 E: info@eliteexhausts.com

Mad Monkey Mechanical Unit 5, 16 O’Shea Drive NERANG QLD 4211 Ph: 0407 692 754 E: adammarazes@live.com.au

Carline Fairy Meadow 2-4 Chapman Street FAIRY MEADOW NSW 2519 Ph: 02 4285 2722 E: darren@rapidmufflers.com

Mick Tighe 4x4 & Outdoor 190 Herries Road TOOWOOMBA QLD 4350 Ph: 07 4632 9782 E: micktighe@mtmworkshops.com.au

Carline Hobart 7 Lampton Avenue DERWENT PARK TAS 7009 Ph: 03 6272 4155 E: garnettptyltd@bigpond.com

Monchhi Dream KFT 1089 BP Kalvaria, U28, 1/19 Hungary HUNGARY Ph: 7031 88999 E:monchhidream2012@gmail.com

Indiana Convention Center, Indianapolis, Indiana 6 – 8 December 2018 www.performanceracing.com

Carline Orange 247 McLachlan Street ORANGE NSW 2800 Ph: 02 6361 8599 E: mufflers1@bigpond.com

Moonlight Custom Fabrication & Welding 4/ 31 Dellamarta Street WANGARA WA 6065 Ph: 0467 224 758 E:moonlightcustomfabrication@iinet.net.au

2019

Carline Port Lincoln 24 Mallee Crecent PORT LINCOLN SA 5606 Ph: 08 8683 0488 E: linexmec@bigpond.net.au

Rapid Tune Cleveland 1/ 62 Shore Street CLEVELAND QLD 4163 Ph: 07 3821 4549 E: cleveland@rapidtune.com.au

Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, Malaysia 21 – 23 March 2019 www.automechanika.messefrankfurt.com

Carline Thomastown 225A Settlement Road THOMASTOWN VIC 3074 Ph: 03 9465 0525 E: metromuffla@ozemail.com.au

Rapid Tune Derrimut 1/ 71 Elgar Road DERRIMUT VIC 3030 Ph: 03 8322 0117 E: derrimut@rapidtune.com.au

Australian Auto Aftermarket Expo 2019

Carline Wangara 7 Competition Way WANGARA WA 6065 Ph: 08 9303 4990 E: sales@mcemotorsport.com.au

Top World Auto Parts Pte.Ltd 05-303 New Bridge Centre 050336 SINGAPORE Ph: 6324 1933 E: topworld@twautoparts.com.sg

Carline Yamanto 25 Belar Street YAMANTO QLD 4305 Ph: 07 3812 0266 E: sales@scottsrods.com.au

TRED Industries Pty Ltd 15 Titanium Court CRESTMEAD QLD 4132 E: chris.roberts@evolvegrp.com

Cooper Automotive 4/ 21 South Arm Highway MORNINGTON TAS 7018 Ph: 0438 448 788 E: mark@cooperautomotive.com.au

Victron Energy B.V. 110 Greystanes Road GREYSTANES NSW 2145 Ph: 0400 547 261 E: cmurray@victronenergy.com

Deering Autronics Australia 9/ 65 Solomon Road JANDAKOT WA 6164 Ph: 08 6174 5000 E: swanson@deering.com.au

Wholesale Automatic Transmissions Factory 2, 4 Melrich Road BAYSWATER VIC 3153 Ph: 03 9762 8004 E: rodney@askorto.com.au

2018 Automechanika Frankfurt Messe Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main Frankfurt, Germany 11 – 15 September, 2018 www.automechanika.messefrankfurt.com

AAPEX Sands Expo, Las Vegas, NV 30 October – 1 November 2018 www.aapexshow.com

SEMA Las Vegas Convention Center 30 October – 2 November 2018 www.semashow.com

Automechanika Shanghai National Exhibition & Convention Center, Puxi, Shanghai 28 November – 1 December 2018 www.automechanika.messefrankfurt.com

Performance Racing Industry Trade Show

Automechanika Kuala Lumpa

Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre 4 – 6 April 2019 www.aftermarketexpo.com.au

Collision Repair Expo 2019 Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre 4 – 6 April 2019 www.collisionrepair.com.au

Taipei AMPA Teipei Nangang Exhibitor Center 24 – 27 April 2019 www.taipeiampa.com.tw/

AAAA NATIONAL COUNCIL PRESIDENT Mr Graham Scudamore-Smith (QLD) – Fulcrum Suspensions Ph: 07 3892 9000 Fax: 07 3892 1526 VICE PRESIDENT Mr Mark Pedder (VIC) – Pedders Suspension Ph: 03 9706 3500 Fax: 03 9706 3355 SECRETARY Mr Guy Nicholls (VIC) – Ryco Group Ph: 03 9243 3333 Fax: 03 9243 3366

Stuart Charity Executive Director

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TREASURER Mr Rob Cameron (VIC) – GPC Asia Pacific Ph: 03 9566 5223

DIRECTORS Mr Bob Pattison (VIC) – GUD Automotive Division Ph: 03 9730 6000 Fax: 03 9243 3366

Mr Peter Rogers (SA) – Inspired Automotive Marketing Ph: 08 8362 1225 Fax: 08 8346 0255 COMMITTEE

John Benson – Davies, Craig (VIC) Ph: 03 9369 1234 Fax: 03 9369 3456

Craig Magill – Burson Automotive (VIC) Ph: 03 9914 5555 Fax: 03 9914 5544

Paul Dumbrell – Bapcor Limited (VIC) Ph: 03 9914 5555 Fax: 03 9914 5544

Adam Pay – Kmart Tyre & Auto Service (NSW) Ph: 02 9680 6500 Fax: 02 9680 8170

David Fraser – Capricorn Society (WA) Ph: 08 6250 9500 Fax: 08 6250 9576

Darren Robinson – HELLA Australia (VIC) Ph: 1800 061 729 Fax: 03 9585 2654

Graham Scudamore-Smith President

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NEWS

CONTINENTAL ACQUIRES KMART TYRE & AUTO SERVICE The business will eventually trade under a new name International automotive supplier, tyre manufacturer and technology company, Continental AG, has purchased the Kmart Tyre & Auto Service (KTAS) business from Wesfarmers for A$350 million.

The sale is subject to regulatory approval from the Foreign Investment Review Board and Australian Competition and Consumer Commission, however the company expects the deal to be completed next month.

Continental says the acquisition will allow the company to grow its tyre sales network in a market it views as highly promising.

“The acquisition of KTAS marks a major expansion in our presence on the Australian tyre market,” Continental’s Executive Board member responsible for the tyre division, Nikolai Setzer, said.

“This move is part of our ‘Vision 2025’ growth strategy, through which we are systematically expanding the worldwide presence of our tyre division.”

KTAS managing director, Adam Pay, will continue to head the business.

“It’s an exciting time,” Adam said.

“Continental is a complimentary business and a

global auto player, so we are delighted with the sale.”

Adam said the change would allow KTAS to enter a new period of expansion.

“The business still has the opportunity to grow under the new ownership,” Adam said.

“Wesfarmers has been a great owner, the trust they placed in us, the autonomy they have given us, and the access to capital for growth, has been terrific.

“Fitting in with a company’s core strategy is very important and there are great opportunities in being owned by Continental, which is already a significant player in auto.”

The business will eventually trade under a new name but that won’t be decided upon for some time.

“We have got 12 to 15 months to figure that out,” Adam said.

“There is a transitional services agreement between the two companies giving the Kmart Tyre and Auto business time to address some of the operational changes including the name.

“It’s not something you can flick the switch on and do overnight. There is a period where the business will continue to use the Kmart name and eventually transition to something new.”

Adam said previous research indicated customers will be unaffected by the rebranding.

“Kmart is a good, strong brand, but our research has revealed that if we stay in our great locations, continue to offer great service and communicate clearly about why we are doing it, the customers will remain with us,” Adam said.

For more information about Continental, visit www.continental-reifen.de

NEW DISTRIBUTOR FOR TOUGH-AS PRODUCTS Tough-As Products manufactures its own range of products in Australia Its signature offering is its Tough-As Work Mats but it has also recently launched its premium guard cover range and an expanding Crash Shop Range.

Tough-As Products is proud to announce that CARE Distributors has become the Master Distributor for Tough-As Work Mats, Pit and Garage Mats and the Crash Shop Range for South Australia.

Tough-As Products made this decision to expand its distribution buoyed by the success distributor Independent Oils has had with the product range in Tasmania over the last financial year.

CARE Distributors are major suppliers of Automotive refinish paints, abrasives, adhesives, tapes and consumable products as well as distributing a complete range of equipment and

tools to the crash repair and body building industries throughout metropolitan Adelaide and country SA. Tough-As Products says CARE Distributor’s knowledgeable and energetic staff offer a wealth of experience with both technical and commercial knowledge.

“We were looking for a quality new complementary product that no-one else had that could not only complement our existing range and customers but also introduce us to a whole new market to enable us to also grow our other products,” CARE Distributors Managing Director, Travis Rainsford, said.

CARE Distributors and the fact that all the products are made right here in South Australia is a bonus to boot.”

Tough-As Products is currently looking for other distributors across Australia to help grow its market reach and penetration. If you are currently distributing products into the Crash and Mechanical Repair Market and are looking for a new and innovative brand to add to your range, then Tough-As Products would like to hear from you.

To contact Tough-As Products, please visit www.tough-as.com.au or call 1800 775 843.

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AAAA & CIAA CLARIFY CURRENT 4WD UPGRADE RULE STATUS Recent media articles vastly exaggerate the effect of the current Federal Government rules The Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA), the nation’s peak body for the manufacturers, distributors and retailers of automotive parts and accessories, along with the Caravan Industry Association of Australia (CIAA), the peak national body for the caravanning and camping industry, wish to clarify the situation relating to proposed 4WD law changes in Queensland which has generated media coverage around the country.

The recent media articles, specifically those that appear in the Courier Mail (Brisbane) of August 21, 2018, vastly exaggerate the effect of the current Federal Government rules which only apply to towing capacity upgrades made on preregistered vehicles. This has understandably alarmed industry businesses along with their customers.

Both industry organisations are seeking national uniformity in relation to the highly responsible, effective and road safety enhancing 4WD modification rules that currently apply across the rest of the country.

“It makes no sense to think that vehicles which are highly likely to cross state lines are subject to different modification rules and we do want to see the Queensland Government take into account the 4WD suspension modification rules that apply in all of the other states and territories,” AAAA Executive Director, Stuart Charity, said.

Members of the AAAA perform safe and responsible vehicle upgrades in Queensland and will continue to do so. The AAAA are working constructively with the Queensland Government on their proposed state based 4WD vehicle modification standards, contrary to what has been stated in several of the recent media articles.

“There is currently a disconnect between Queensland and New South Wales on suspension height upgrades and this is of major concern - but to imply that you can’t upgrade a vehicle in Queensland anymore is simply not true and has caused major alarm amongst that state’s 4WD and Caravanning community, representing hundreds of thousands of motorists.

Both the AAAA and the CIAA support 4WD owners and caravan industry consumers in obtaining responsible vehicle modifications that ensure safer towing.

“The AAAA has invested heavily in providing full engineering and testing evidence to all Federal and State Government regulators to prove the ongoing compliance and safety of suspension

upgrades and we look forward to working with the Queensland Government to ensure that any future changes in State regulation have the benefit of input from industry experts.”

“The modern day caravanner crosses many state borders and the lack of harmonisation of state based regulations does nothing other than confuse the market,” CIAA Chief Executive Officer, Stuart Lamont, said.

“As one country, the concept of barrier free travel must be a priority to ensure that the many regional areas that the travelling caravanning community frequents are able to be enjoyed in a safe and legal manner and without frivolous impediment.

“The caravanning community is worth billions of dollars annually to the Queensland economy and political uncertainty over policy does little to stimulate or provide confidence to the 4WD and caravanning markets.”

The AAAA and CIAA are ready to assist in bringing all of the parties together to achieve national consistency in relation to 4WD vehicle upgrades.

For more informstion, visit www.aaaa.com.au

NATRAD DALBY WINS 2018 FRANCHISE AWARD Natrad Franchise store owners and operators gather together each year for their National Conference and Awards Dinner The 2018 event was recently held at the luxurious Cordis Hotel in the heart of vibrant Hong Kong, and attended by specialist Radiator and Air Conditioning workshop owners and operators from across Australia and New Zealand.

The highlight evening of the conference was the Awards Dinner, where the best workshops around the country were recognised.

Natrad Dalby was initially selected as State Winner for Queensland and then further crowned the National Winner for 2018. The award recognises success and excellence judged over a variety of criteria including shop and staff presentation, marketing, sales and service.

Robert and Karen Stewart said they were honoured to be this year’s national winner and to have their business acknowledged as the best Natrad workshop in Australia.

This year’s State Winners were Natrad Kalgoorlie 8

(WA), Natrad Granville (NSW/ACT), Natrad Wingfield (SA) and Natrad Wodonga (VIC).

Natrad Dalby is located in the Darling Downs region of Queensland and has a history dating back to 1952. The Stewarts have owned and operated the business for the past 24 years and joined the Natrad Franchise group in 2014.

In addition to being a Natrad Radiators and Auto Air workshop, they are also a Natrad Heavy Duty Specialist (HDS) member. Natrad HDS workshops are equipped to handle very large industrial cooling repairs for heavy vehicle, construction, agriculture and mining applications.

“We were delighted when Natrad Dalby joined the Franchise back in 2014 and to have them crowned our National Franchise of the Year just four years later is an outstanding achievement,” National Franchise Manager, Roy Lapedota, said.

“Robert and Karen are passionate about providing

Owners of Natrad Dalby, Robert and Karen Stewart, receiving the 2018 Natrad Franchise of the Year award from Gary Washington, Managing Director, Adrad Group of Companies and Roy Lapedota Natrad National Franchise Manager.

high quality cooling solutions and they go above and beyond to deliver exceptional customer service.”

The Natrad group is Australia’s largest specialist network of radiator and auto air conditioning specialists and is proudly supported by Australia’s largest radiator manufacturer and supplier, Adrad.

Workshops interested in joining the Natrad Franchise should visit www.natrad.com.au or call 03 9795 1255.

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NEWS

WHY YOUNG AUSTRALIANS ARE THE CUSTOMER OF THE FUTURE FOR INDEPENDENT MECHANICS Is car ownership dying in the under 30 market? ACA Research says: no Increases in car sharing; the rise of Uber; and stories about young people delaying getting their driving licences or choosing to buy new cars later in life have all prompted speculation that car ownership is dying among the ‘under 30s.’

However, ACA Research says its latest insights reveal that the ‘death of car ownership’ is a premature concept.

On top of this, it says its research also clearly shows that the independent mechanic is the preferred service channel for younger Australians.

From an aftermarket perspective, says ACA Research, Millennials and Generation Z are often overlooked segments yet they represent a sizeable opportunity for independent mechanics and could even be called ‘the customer of the future.’

As table one shows, more than 17 million Australians aged 18+ have a driving licence and own a motor vehicle, including roughly five million Millennials and Generation Z vehicle owners.

Looking at their most recent service, 70 percent of Generation Z also say they used an independent workshop or chain, compared with 45 percent of Baby Boomers and Greys.

ACA Research says this bias towards independents is likely to reflect the age of the vehicle they own,

but it also represents an opportunity to build a long term relationship with younger car owners who represent the customer of the future for many workshops.

Another point to be conscious of is that while the average cost of a Generation Z motorist’s last service is lower than the overall average, price is not the most important factor in deciding where to service their vehicle. The top three factors, in order of importance are: 1. The skills/training of the mechanics 2. Trust in the workshop 3. The quality of the parts used These three choice drivers are universal across all generations which means the same messaging can be used in all communications, says ACA Research.

Where younger motorists differ is in the channels they use to consume information. Fundamentally, Generation Z and Millennials tend to be digital first customers.

This means they turn to digital channels first to contact a brand, to seek support and advice, and to make a purchase. Mobile is their preferred device and they are heavy users of social media to find and evaluate potential service providers.

So, what does it take to win the heart of the younger motorist?

TABLE ONE

ACA Research says its research shows trust is a key differentiator for choosing a workshop, so it advises you use social media to pull back the curtain and show the transparent nature of your business.

Your customers are looking for evidence of the skills of your mechanics, so ACA Research recommends you use video to demonstrate the technical competence of your staff. With mobile the device of choice, it is recommended you make sure your website is mobile optimised. Finally, get customers talking about the great service they experienced at your workshop – word of mouth is still king, it’s just that your younger customers have a different way of spreading the word.

This column was prepared for AAA 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

NEW MANUFACTURING INVESTMENT FOR AUSTRALIA Elgi Equipments acquires Pulford Air and Gas; makes strategic entry into Australian market Elgi Equipments, one of India’s leading aircompressor manufacturers, has announced the 100 percent acquisition of F.R. Pulford and Son along with its wholly owned subsidiary, Advanced Air Compressors, doing business as Pulford Air and Gas and based in Sydney, Australia.

This acquisition was completed on July 31st, 2018.

Elgi Equipments says it is currently on a business mission of becoming a leading player in the global air-compressor business by 2027, stating this strategic acquisition is in fact a significant step the company has made in Australia to expand its footprint in the whole region.

Through this acquisition, Elgi gains access to a national pool of customers to grow sales and service in Australia. Pulford is one of the largest distributors of industrial compressors in Australia and has been in the business for nearly 100 years.

The company has reported an annual turnover of AUD14.5 Million during the financial year 201510

16, AUD 15.8 Million during 2016-17 and AUD 18 Million during 2017-18. Elgi will gain 100 percent of the shareholding and control of Pulford. “(The acquisition was) a momentous day in Elgi’s and Pulford’s history. It is the integration of two customer centric organisations with the intent of gaining a leadership position in the Australian compressed air market,” Elgi Equipments Managing Director, Dr Jairam Varadaraj, said.

“Pulford embodies market leadership through decades of customer centricity. All of us at Elgi are humbled by Pulford’s legacy in the Australian market and we are honoured by the role Elgi will play in its growth.”

stability of great products, class leading design and engineering and support from a world class OEM manufacturer.

“(The acquisition) marks a great opportunity for Pulford to take a further leap forward in the Australian air compressor market with the acquisition by Elgi worldwide,” Pulford Managing Director, Tom Fyfe, said.

“We are all very excited about the growth opportunities with the products, we know this is a big step forward for both companies that secures Pulford as a major player in the Australian compressed air market.”

“It means that Pulford and Advanced Air have the

For more information about Elgi, visit www.elgi.com

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NEWS

INDEPENDENT REPAIRER BUSINESS CONTINUES TO GROW AND STRENGTHEN AAAA Automotive Workshop Business Confidence study now complete Directly following the highly positive findings of the Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association’s detailed consumer survey, come the results of the inaugural Automotive Workshop Business Confidence study independently conducted for the AAAA by ACA Research.

A total of 250 independent Australian automotive service and repair workshop owners and senior management took part in this highly detailed industry benchmarking survey, representing the first research study of this magnitude ever conducted by the AAAA. The study’s findings have provided an insight to the strength, confidence and long term positive projections for the service and repair sector of the Australian automotive aftermarket, which as distinct from new car retailing, continues to experience sustained growth.

The ACA Research findings present business growth figures that place Australia’s independent automotive service and repair sector as one of the highest and most consistently strong performers of all Australian service industries.

A total of 44 percent of the independent automotive workshops surveyed reported seeing a year on year increase in business, with 48 percent of respondents expecting business growth over the next 12 months.

A strong 34 percent of workshops are maintaining their business size with a solid customer base that continues to return year after year. Both of these trade perspective respondent percentages correlate directly to the findings of the recent AAAA consumer study that amongst many other important facts, revealed that an outstanding 87 percent of consumers elected to take their cars for service and repairs to their local and highly trusted independent repairer.

There have also been significant gains made by automotive repair businesses that have invested significantly in technology and local area

marketing, with the strongest performing independent workshops attracting motorists who own cars that are five or less years old, whilst also attracting more company fleet based repair and servicing business.

There is no doubt that the increased consumer awareness that new car warranties will not be voided by selecting their preferred independent repairer is growing. The study found that this was particularly the case during 2017, a result of the sustained efforts by AAAA members to deliver this message to their customers through the AAAA’s Choice of Repairer campaign.

The research reveals that both customer trust and the convenience of using independent automotive repairers is definitely growing, with many workshop owners reporting that they are being asked to service vehicles while under manufacturer warranties more than ever before.

The study also reveals that increased demand is being seen for the logbook servicing of European vehicles, diesel vehicles and four wheel drives.

While this detailed Australian automotive workshop research has provided many highly positive snapshots of the sustained health of independent automotive service and repair businesses, this market study also outlined the challenges affecting this sector of the industry.

A total of 22 percent of respondents felt that their businesses were declining, with the major challenge facing the entire industry being one that the automotive service and repair industry shares with many other Australian service industries, the attraction and retention of skilled staff.

This along with the industry’s long term lack of access to technical repair and service information from vehicle manufacturers, remain the two major challenges for the automotive repair and service sector. This finding vindicates the major efforts continually being made by the AAAA, several members of state and federal parliament and the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) to rectify this vitally important issue.

This research has also outlined three distinct business categories in the Australian automotive service and repair industry, these categories being identified as Leaders, Business As Usual and At Risk. The study’s findings reveal that leading businesses have invested significantly in updating their technology and skill sets to be able to service younger vehicles of all makes and models.

According to this study, automotive repair and service businesses that are not growing and

indeed those that are considered at risk, display a trend to operate their businesses intuitively or as they have always traditionally done, as opposed to taking a data driven approach. This includes such things as updated technology, training and local marketing to assist in drawing new customers with younger vehicles to their workshops.

According to AAAA Executive Director, Stuart Charity, this inaugural industry benchmarking survey was conducted for a number of important reasons.

“The AAAA wants to assist the independent automotive workshops of Australia to grow and develop their businesses and the most effective way to achieve this is through detailed market intelligence, the extent of which we have not done before,” Stuart said.

“We also wanted market data to accurately challenge the notion that independent repairers were not equipped or experienced enough to service and repair new vehicles, which this independent study clearly reveals is currently one of our industry’s biggest growth sectors.

“The Australian automotive repair and service industry is growing and will continue to do so as the Australian carparc continues to grow and diversify. This research clearly outlines the importance of investing in service and repair technology, training and marketing in order to continue and sustain this growth.

“To have such a high percentage of Leader category businesses, along with an even higher percentage expecting further growth in the coming year, heralds a highly positive future ahead for this sector of our industry.”

Along with smaller family operated automotive service and repair workshops, almost half of the data gained in this inaugural AAAA industry benchmarking survey was gleaned from larger independent chains including Kmart Tyre and Auto, Ultra Tune, Repco Authorised Service, ABS, Midas, Future Auto, Auto Masters and Jax Tyres.

For more from the AAAA, visit www.aaaa.com.au 11

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NEWS

BURSON AUTO PARTS TRADE SHOW The trade show will be held at Sandown Raceway on September 26 Melbourne and Victorian based members of the automotive trade are invited to the Burson Auto Parts Sandown Raceway Trade Show, taking place in Melbourne on Wednesday September 26 from 5:00pm to 8:30pm.

Burson Auto Parts says this trade show brings direct access to more than 60 leading trade specialist suppliers, providing the trade with the latest technical information along with exclusive Burson Auto Parts Trade Show deals.

Judging by the success of the Burson Auto Parts trade shows held so far throughout 2018, Burson Auto Parts says this fourth annual Melbourne event is the biggest of the year as it brings together such a major number of suppliers, products, experts and Burson Auto Parts team members.

CAPRICORN RISING STARS WINNER ANNOUNCED Mark Smith has been announced as the inaugural winner of the Capricorn Rising Stars Apprentice of the Year competition After a comprehensive judging process of more than 500 Capricorn Rising Star nominations received from Capricorn Members across Australia and New Zealand, the Capricorn Rising Stars Apprentice of the Year has been selected.

Capricorn says it is delighted to announce that Mark Smith, an apprentice from The Battery Terminal in Belconnen, ACT, has been named as the inaugural Capricorn Rising Stars winner.

Mark emerged on top after impressing the Capricorn Rising Stars judging panel with his outstanding work ethic, combined with his passion for the industry and commitment to making the most of the opportunity given to him by his employers at The Battery Terminal.

As the Capricorn Rising Stars Apprentice of the Year, Mark will take his boss and two friends on an all-expenses paid trip to the spectacular 2018 Vodafone Gold Coast 600 Supercar race, held on the streets of Surfers Paradise from October 19 to 21, thanks to Capricorn Rising Stars competition major sponsor, Castrol.

Mark was justifiably proud to have earned the inaugural Capricorn Rising Stars, Apprentice of the Year accolade.

There will also be a number of giveaways and door prizes handed out at this Burson Auto Parts trade show, which also includes food and refreshments for all guests to enjoy.

From fast moving replacement parts to state of the art workshop equipment and everything in between, the Burson Auto Parts Sandown Raceway Trade Show will have it all on Wednesday September 26 from 5:00pm to 8.30pm.

Burson Auto Parts says that as Australia’s leading trade supplier of parts, tools and workshop equipment, trade shows held in major cities and regional centres are a very important part of its trade focused operations. It states these events provide valuable direct trade customer interaction with suppliers, sales representatives and technical experts all at the one venue.

For further information about this Melbourne automotive trade show, contact Burson Auto Parts on 1300 287 766.

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"I'm very proud to be the first Capricorn Rising Star and I would like to congratulate all of the other nominees and finalists, as it is so good to see other young people sharing the same enthusiasm for the industry,” Mark said.

“I hope that this initiative continues and that more apprentices gain the recognition that they deserve for their efforts day in, day out. Out of all of the prizes, I am looking forward to the access

2018 Capricorn Rising Stars Apprentice of the Year Mark Smith (third from left) with the team from The Battery Terminal (ACT). that I will have with the industry leaders the most.

The mentoring will be a great thing for my career as I am ready and willing to learn all the time.”

As part of the Capricorn Rising Star competition winner’s prize pack, The Battery Terminal has also won industry renowned customer service training from The Workshop Whisperer.

The Capricorn Rising Stars competition was developed to assist Capricorn Members in rewarding and retaining their high performing apprentices by recognising their important contribution, while highlighting the promising future that lies ahead of them within the industry.

Through the Capricorn Rising Stars Apprentice of the Year competition, Australasia’s largest automotive parts buying group hopes to encourage more apprentices to join and make their mark in the industry.

The Capricorn Rising Stars judging panel included David Fraser, Chief Executive Officer Automotive – Capricorn; Sean Rahaley, General Manager – Castrol; Stuart Charity, Executive Director – Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA); Brendan Sorensen – TaT Biz; Rachael Sheldrick, Director – Workshop Whisperer; and Gavin Cribb, Education Manager – Automotive Centre of Excellence (ACE) Bendigo Kangan Institute.

All of the judges agreed that deciding the winner was a difficult process, due to the extremely high calibre of apprentices who were nominated by Capricorn Members.

Capricorn thanks all of their Members who took part by nominating their outstanding apprentices, the people who represent the future of the Australian and New Zealand automotive repair and servicing industry.

Mark Smith (left) was voted as the winner from more than 500 Capricorn Member apprentice entries received by a judging panel that represented a who’s who of the automotive aftermarket industry.

The Capricorn Rising Stars Apprentice of the Year competition was proudly supported by Repco, AutoMate, TatBiz, The Workshop Whisperer and major sponsor Castrol.

For more from Capricorn, visit www.capricorn.coop

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NEWS

ACS CONTINUES GLOBAL EXPANSION Australian Clutch Services launches new brand for the US market As two-time winners of the AAAA Export Awards, Australian Clutch Services is renowned for its export program in locations such as Europe, the Middle East and Asia. Now, ACS says it is making its mark on the US market with a new brand, XClutch.

XClutch is the sister brand to Xtreme Clutch in Australia and offers a similar product range with modifications being made to suit the US car park.

“Creating a new brand for the US market was a challenge but it also allows us to create a range and a product that fits the local market perfectly,”

Australian Clutch Services Managing Director, Brenton Jordan, said.

ACS says the brand offers the same attention to detail with each kit carefully designed to ensure the best combination of driveability and performance. The range has also been developed to provide both street and track upgrades for as many vehicles as possible.

“We’ve put a lot of time and effort into developing our new US brand and we are proud to be able to officially launch XClutch at an iconic automotive trade show like SEMA,” Brenton said.

“With a new US-based warehouse, a complete range of products and a new fresh look, we’re ready to officially launch the brand and start nationwide distribution of the product.”

A team from Australian Clutch Services will be heading to Las Vegas for the show to help answer any questions on the XClutch brand and product range. ACS will also be sending its supercharged Holden SS ute from Australia for the event.

“We will have a strong team on the ground at

SEMA for this event and we have an exciting stand planned to help us showcase the product. The event is always a highlight on our marketing calendar and we look forward to seeing the response to the brand,” Brenton said.

Australian Clutch Services will also be exhibiting at Automechanika Frankfurt in September, at World Time Attack and Sydney 4x4 Show in October and at the PRI show Indianapolis in December.

For more information on any of the shows or the product range, please contact Australian Clutch Services on 1800 CLUTCH or visit www.australianclutch.com.au

NARVA TAKES BEST STAND AWARD Narva was recognised at the National 4x4 Show After revealing its Ultima 215 LED driving light to last year’s National 4x4 Show in Melbourne, Narva says it needed to follow up with something special at the August 2018 event, which saw a significant increase in attendance over 2017.

The company says it answered the call with a dynamic and colourful exhibition stand that had visitors of all ages well and truly engaged, earning the automotive lighting and electrical brand the award for best stand over 100sqm amongst some impressive competition.

Narva’s stand played host to the public unveiling of three new LED driving lights: Ultima 180 which, bearing resemblance to its big brother Ultima 215, utilises the same high-powered LED technology to pack an equally impressive punch for its size; Ultima 175, an advanced European-

style more budget-friendly free form LED lamp featuring Narva’s new Enhanced ‘Optic’ Drive technology for a carefully focused beam of bright white light from less power; and the Ultima 225, a bigger free form LED lamp for those with larger bull bars.

All lamps feature LED light pipe position lights for added safety and modern stylish appearance, rounding out Narva’s latest range of great driving lights, now with an LED lamp to suit almost any application.

Demonstrating the performance of a driving light within the confines of a well-lit exhibition building or retail store is no easy feat. Narva overcame this obstacle with the public debut of their Virtual Reality Driving Light Experience.

This interactive simulation allowed consumers to see and compare different driving lights by placing them in the virtual passenger seat of a 4x4 making its way along multiple terrains in the true dark of night.

“The VR experience provided attendees with a completely immersive 3D view of their surroundings and the ability to seamlessly switch between different lighting configurations just by pointing at the lamps they want to see in action,” Narva Marketing Manager, Jake Smith, said.

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“This specially filmed simulation is the closest you’ll get to a real-world light beam comparison.

It really is a what-you-see-is-what-you-get experience and that makes it much easier to choose the appropriate lighting for their needs.”

Also creating a stir at the 4x4 show was the spectacle of Narva Racing’s heavily-photographed TSCO Trophy Truck, a 700hp 6L V8-powered custom off-road race vehicle that had show-goers buzzing with excitement.

The no-expense-spared competition vehicle is piloted by off-road racing veteran Mick Magher who had spent the previous weekend competing in the Rainbow Desert Enduro before landing this spectacular vehicle on Narva’s stand sporting five Ultima 215 LED lamps mounted on its roof.

For more from Narva, visit www.narva.com.au

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NEWS

AUTOGURU RECOGNISES ITS TOP MECHANICS AutoGuru is ‘Highly Recommending’ the top mechanics on its platform who are continuously delivering great service experiences to customers After emerging from its first full month of mass media advertising in South East Queensland, AutoGuru, Australia’s fastest growing online marketplace for mechanics, is focusing on recognising mechanics on its platform that are delivering great customer service to users who book through the AutoGuru website.

“The team at AutoGuru is beyond proud to represent all the mechanics on our website. These businesses are the foundation members of a growing number of service providers in Australia who are willing to be transparent on pricing and stand by the quality of services they provide by being publicly reviewed by customers online,” Autoguru Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Eden Shirley, said.

“Customers who use AutoGuru trust us to find them a reliable and high quality mechanic, so this program is a way to say thank you for looking after the customers we refer.”

The businesses that have been initially identified as Highly Recommended by AutoGuru are the ones that have constantly received great reviews from verified customers on the AutoGuru platform.

“We want to give recognition where recognition is due,” Eden said. “These mechanics have earned our respect and we want to Highly Recommend them both online and offline to any customer that might be interested in their service.”

Initially, to introduce the program, mechanics that

achieve Highly Recommended status will receive a large sticker that they are able to display on shop windows or mobile vans, allowing customers to easily identify them as a mechanic that continuously delivers great service.

As the program develops, these workshops will receive more material in order to help them visually stand out from others, such as large feather banners and other promotional material.

“AutoGuru has a simple and honest goal; we want to help motorists find and book quality service providers who they can trust. Whilst we firmly believe that all mechanics on our platform are quality and trustworthy, we do notice that some go absolutely above and beyond to ensure the satisfaction of their customers,” Eden said.

“These mechanics are really helping customers not only develop trust with their business, but develop trust with the AutoGuru platform on a whole. It’s helping us achieve our goal, and the way we can repay these mechanics is to do what we do best, and that’s encourage as many customers as possible to book in with them.”

“By providing material that they can display in their workshop, we’re showing that we don’t mind promoting their high quality service to offline customers, as long they know they’re booking their car in with a great mechanic, everyone wins.”

AutoGuru aims for this program to further motivate mechanics on their platform to deliver the best service possible.

“We’re always getting mechanics on our platform contacting the Partnership Success team, asking how they can improve on customer service and gain more reviews on the website. It’s great to see mechanics acknowledging the power customers have in promoting their businesses, and they’re showing great initiative to try gain an advantage from it,” Autoguru Head of Sales and Partnerships, Jason Church, said.

“The Highly Recommended program gives the mechanics another goal to work towards now, as well as more rewards for delivering some great service to customers, time after time.”

Keep an eye out for these Highly Recommended stickers appearing in workshops in the next couple of months.

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

BURSON AUTO PARTS REACHES 170 STORES NATIONWIDE The new store is located in Hervey Bay, Queensland Australian trade supplier of automotive parts, tools and equipment, Burson Auto Parts, has opened its 170th store.

This milestone continues the Australian company’s national growth strategy to ensure that more trade customers have access to Burson Auto Parts’ range of automotive parts, tools and equipment with even higher levels of delivery efficiency.

According to Burson Auto Parts Executive General Manager - Trade, Craig Magill, the opening of the company’s 170th store heralds an exciting period in the company’s national growth.

“We have always focused on positioning our stores where our trade customers want us to be and to stock these stores with significantly high amounts of inventory, to ensure that the automotive

repairers of each region have the parts that they need, when they need them,” Craig said.

“We have opened many outstanding stores in greenfield sites in major suburbs and in rural areas where large concentrations of repairers are located.

“The location of our new Burson Auto Parts stores ensure that repairers who have not had access to conveniently located parts, tools and equipment, now have that access, coupled with experienced staff and efficient delivery services.”

Burson Auto Parts says its dedication to its trade customers across the country has seen the fully Australian owned company grow from 50 stores in 2008, to 100 stores in 2012 and 150 stores located across all Australian states and territories by 2016.

In 2018, it says the total number of stores reaches 170 with the company’s continued growth being guided by the same trade customer service values that have made Burson Auto Parts a true blue Australian success story for almost five decades.

For more on Burson Auto Parts, visit www.burson.com.au 17

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NEWS

ACS EXPANDS R&D FLEET A 2018 Ford Mustang GT has been added to ACS’ fleet of R&D vehicles The Australian Clutch Services (ACS) Research and Development fleet has a new addition with a 2018 Ford Mustang GT joining the already extensive range of vehicles used for testing at ACS’ South Australian facility.

ACS explains the new Mustang was sourced in order to test performance products for the Australian, European and American markets.

“We have recently acquired a new 2018 Ford Mustang GT that will be used for the development of new products for the market,” ACS Managing Director, Brenton Jordan, said.

“We don’t just put our products through extensive machine-based testing, we also like to install these kits in vehicles and test them in the real world to see how they truly feel.”

ACS will soon be sending one of their test vehicles, a supercharged Holden SS ute, to the United States for the SEMA show and decided upon a Mustang as a replacement to meet the requirements of the changing market in Australia and overseas.

“Our VE SS ute has been a fantastic development

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vehicle and we have been able to use this for many years to test friction materials and new kit styles,” Brenton said.

“The new Mustang is an ideal replacement as we can not only develop a range of 2018 Mustang upgrades, but we can also easily modify the vehicle to produce more power for testing our motorsport and high-performance street range.”

ACS reports it has an extensive research and development facility in its South Australian headquarters that includes machinery for testing peak clamping forces, bearing loads and also for testing the clamping force over the lifecycle of the product.

“Our R&D facility is one of the most advanced in the world,” ACS Mechanical Engineer, Stewart Furze, said.

“We are able to test many different attributes of the clutch to ensure our customers receive the best combination of performance, driveability and durability in tough conditions.”

ACS has recently announced its US based

performance brand, XClutch, will be officially launched at SEMA show in Las Vegas later this year.

Brenton feels the Mustang offers the ideal platform to showcase the performance range between the XClutch and Xtreme Clutch brands.

“The new model Mustangs are becoming more and more common on the streets in Australia and are obviously very popular in the United States,” Brenton said.

“We feel that this will give us the best platform to test products to suit both markets moving forward and we cannot wait to get it out on track for some motorsport testing.”

For more information about the ACS product range, please call 1800 CLUTCH or visit www.australianclutch.com.au

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CASE STUDY

AUTOLOGIC ON MERCEDES Autologic discusses some faults they commonly see on Mercedes 212, 207, 204 and 218 from production period 12/2011 to 03/2012 Autologic reports symptoms can vary depending on the model range of the vehicle.

The warning lights could come on, some models might have various broken functions including the wiper washers, and for some models it can even result in the engine not being able to start, or not allowing you to select a gear.

Autologic states it has found that re-cycling the ignition may fix the issue temporarily.

Fixing the fault: Autologic states carrying out a full vehicle scan will show most control units with numerous CAN communication faults.

It says a typical fault read will give CAN faults in: • • • • • • • • •

ESP Engine Transmission EIS (ignition switch) Rear SAM Xenon Headlights (if fitted) SRS Multifunction camera PARKTRONIC

All reporting CAN issues will be stored faults, says Autologic, stating that the common theme across all models are the codes in the rear SAM and SRS – this will give you a diagnosis point to the problem, it says.

range. The limit value for electrical voltage has not been attained • A14B72 (B214B72) [Stored] The output for switch 'Quiescent current ON' has a malfunction. The actuator does not close These codes are important as it will indicate the premature closing of the 30G relay in the f32 fuse box. The other sign of this being the cause are the codes in SRS - SRS: Airbag. Part no. 212 901 42 04. There are three faults: • A10F (B210F) [Stored] Event: Input 'Circuit 30' has a malfunction • 9C1A (B1C1A) [Stored] NECK-PRO head restraint 'Front passenger' has an open circuit • 9C14 (B1C14) [Stored] NECK-PRO head restraint 'Driver' has an open circuit In 100 percent of cases, says Autologic, these codes will be stored in the SRS module if the 30G feed is shut off prematurely.

Cause of the problem Autologic explains the cause of the problem is a defective no-load current relay in the engine compartment pre-fuse box F32 (this is the jump point fuse box under the bonnet)

What is 30G?

In the rear SAM, Autologic explains you will have a few rear light codes, and the following:

30G is a 12Volt permanent live circuit which is shut down after six hours after the vehicle is locked. The result of which means that 60 percent of control units receive a hard reset (power off and then on again at vehicle restart); this has the effect of less vehicle problems.

• A19600 (B219600) [Stored] The power supply of circuit 30g is < 7.5 V • A19700 (B219700) [Stored] The power supply of circuit 30g is < 8.5 V • A19116 (B219116) [Stored] The power supply of circuit 30g is outside the valid

1. The rear SAM checks after 75 minutes and will find a drain of >50mA 2. It will then give a five-minute warning to the other control units to shut down 3. After the other control units have shut down, it will then shut circuit 30G by triggering the

shut off a control relay in F32 (front electrical pre-fuse box) without waiting the six hours a. If the voltages/quiescent current is within spec, the rear SAM will go back to sleep b. The system will always try to ensure the vehicle is able to start c. The battery sensor has a diagnostic facility to help diagnosis of current drain faults It’s important to disconnect the battery to replace the f32 fuse box. Note: Remove the battery sensor in the correct way or this will cause issues after you’ve finished.

• Procedure for disconnecting the battery (battery sensor): unplug the electrical plug from the sensor (B95 red and blue wires); unbolt the negative terminal.

• Procedure for connecting the battery sensor: connect the negative terminal (terminal clamp bolt torque is 6nm); reconnect the electrical plug to the battery sensor clear codes; (on vehicles with option code 510 or 523 a clock reset is required).

• Electrical connection for B95 Red +30 from battery positive Blue/white LIN wire to rear SAM When disconnecting the battery, using the wrong sequence can cause arcing and contact bounce.

This will cause a LIN communication error, putting the battery sensor (B95) into a passive state and at this point it will stop sending information to rear SAM. ECO start stop will also stop working. Note: no steps are required for initial start-up of B95 battery control module Once the battery is correctly disconnected, the f32 fuse box can be replaced with a new part from Mercedes-Benz (modified). The old f32 has a design fault and will shut off without the command from rear SAM. The battery will then be put back on line after the replacement. Then clear codes as necessary and road test the vehicle on job completion.

For more from Autologic, call 03 8561 7600 or visit www.autologic.com 19

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COVER FEATURE

TECTALOY COOLANT: A STRONG PART OF THE ITW AAMTECH FAMILY The Tectaloy brand has been providing quality coolants for vehicles throughout Australia and New Zealand for over 60 years With the extensive availability of Tectaloy Coolants, you can ensure product conformance and compatibility, and avoid the pitfalls of mixing different coolants. This provides peace of mind when travelling or running a fleet.

Coolants are classified as either Type A or Type B depending on the level of glycol they contain.

Tectaloy manufactures quality anti-freeze concentrates, pre-mix ready-to-use coolants, and corrosion inhibitor concentrates to suit passenger and performance vehicles, light truck, heavy duty and stationary engines.

• Contain above 20 percent glycol content • Offer anti-freeze anti-boil protection • Nearly all new car manufacturers will recommend a Type A product

The brand has been available in Australia for over six decades and also available in New Zealand.

The company claims that, as with all ITW AAMTech products, the strategy for Tectaloy Coolant is to have the best product at the best price on the shelf.

With its easy to understand and easy to select from range, Tectaloy says it can supply coolant to suit any manufacturer’s specifications. Tectaloy believes that product performance is its true competitive advantage, stating its product is the only coolant that can go the distance of 1,000,000kms or 10 years.

Tectaloy has a long history in coolant and its goal is to provide a quality product that lasts and to earn and keep the trust of its customers.

COOLANTS EXPLAINED The primary function of a coolant is to transfer heat away from the combustion in the engine. It is also imperative to protect the metals in the cooling system against corrosion.

Glycol Ethylene glycol in the coolant offers anti-freeze /anti-boil protection. Water is an active heat transfer fluid by itself. However, it has a limited operating temperature range.

When combined with Glycol, the formulation offers a lower freezing point and a higher boiling point than either fluid used on their own.

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Types of Coolants

Part of ITW AAMTech, Tectaloy products are manufactured in state-of-the-art facilities with the technical and R&D support of ITW's global resources.

Type A Coolants

Type B Coolants • Contain below 20 percent glycol content • Offer minimal or no anti-freeze anti-boil protection • Typically they are referred to as corrosion inhibitors

Organic Vs Conventional Coolants Conventional style coolants are created using older technology but have a solid performance history. This traditional type of coolant will have a

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COVER FEATURE

shorter lifespan than organic and is suited to earlier model vehicles.

Zealand. Globally it is a part of the US$13.4 billion dollar ITW family, which operates in 57 countries around the world focusing on innovative customer solutions.

There are many types of corrosion that can occur in a cooling system, which is why a coolant with a good quality corrosion inhibitor package is required. Tectaloy coolants all contain an inhibitor package that provides maximum protection against corrosion.

• Use a flush – prepare your engine to ensure maximum coolant life.

• Always use the correct amount of coolant.

• Always use the best quality water available, de-mineralised preferred.

• When changing coolant check the condition of the thermostat, radiator cap and all hoses.

• Use service stickers to mark the date of coolant installation.

• Contact your local EPA for advice on how to dispose of used coolant.

• Always make sure heaters are open when changing coolant.

• Always make sure that your engine is cool before checking coolant level

The following are do’s and don’ts to avoid corrosion:

Who is ITW AAMTech?

ITW AAMTech states its portfolio of leading brands includes some of the best in the country.

• Do not mix coolants – different chemical formulations can cause fouling and overheating.

ITW AAMTech is a manufacturer and distributor of quality automotive aftermarket products for the DIY and DIFM markets in Australia and New

For more information visit www.tectaloy.com.au or www.aamtech.com.au

Organic coolants are manufactured using a new process referred to as Organic Acid Technology (OAT). This process provides the ability to a long lifespan due to low chemical depletion rate. * Note: Conventional and organic style coolants do not mix well together.

Corrosion

All ITWAAMTech products are either manufactured or distributed through one of its three sites in Hemmant QLD, Wetherill Park NSW, or its head office in Dandenong South VIC. Its vast range of products is distributed in the Automotive Aftermarket, Fleet, and Trade and Industrial markets. It claims it is successful in its markets because of the strength of its iconic brands, and the company’s ability to provide customers with a constant flow of new and improved products.

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WHY INJECTORS WEAR

Pic 1 High leak back

If proper maintenance is performed and problematic practices can be avoided, DENSO says most diesel owners will go trouble-free If you're a diesel owner with an older engine (precommon-rail), besides the general maintenance advice like changing your fuel filter regularly, DENSO says this article may not apply to you.

This is because older diesel injection use much less fuel pressure modern engines, and older injectors send the fuel through much larger passages.

Why is there such a difference with common-rail injectors?

DENSO explains modern common-rail diesel injectors can fire up eight times per engine cycle depending on the maker. This increases the wear on the injector compared to the older diesels vehicles.

Diesel injectors fail mainly because it has to do with the quality of the fuel running through the injector and DENSO says based on its experience, there is always room for improvement in our fuel quality.

COMMON CAUSES OF FAILURES AND HOW TO PREVENT THEM Failure: High Internal Leakage or Return Flow Indicators: • Engine is hard to start • Low common-rail pressure codes Causes: • Worn injector ball seat (Pic 1) • Blown internal high-pressure seal • Incorrect nozzle needle clearance • Cracked nozzle body • Cracked injector body Prevention: • Keep fuel system clean, change fuel filters, purchase fuel from reliable sources, and avoid filling from portable fuel tanks.

• Avoid aggressive tuning that increases railpressure and injector pulse widths and do not remove pressure-limiting devices from the system (they are there for a reason).

• Do not use counterfeit injection components that are not properly designed or manufactured.

Failure: No Injection Indicators: • Cylinder Balance rates are high (positive), indicating fuel is being added to the cylinder because the computer thinks the fuel injector is not flowing enough.

• ECU fault codes.

Causes: • Debris or rust in the injector plugging the nozzle 24

• Armature and/or nozzle needle stuck • Loss of cylinder compression or other mechanical problem Prevention: • Keep fuel system clean, change filters, purchase fuel from reliable sources, and avoid filling from portable fuel tanks or Unknown sources.

• Do not use counterfeit injection components that are not properly designed or manufactured.

• Reject all fuel system replacement parts that have metallic burrs.

• If a long storage time of the vehicle is expected, arrange to have it started on occasion to prevent internal varnishing and corrosion of internal components; aftermarket fuel additives specifically designed for stabilising diesel fuel could also be added.

Pic 2 Abnormal Combustion

Failure: Excessive Injection Indicators: • Excessive smoke at idle, poor running, and banging (Pic 2).

• Cylinder Balance rates are low (negative), indicating fuel is being reduced to the cylinder because the computer thinks the fuel injector is flowing too much, normally this is the side effect of another much larger issue.

• Excessive exhaust gas temperature.

• Engine damage from excessive heat or hydraulic lock from excessive fuel in the cylinder.

Causes: • Worn ball seat in injector or poor end of injection cut off • Nozzle needle seat worn or damaged • Debris in control system of injector, which holds it open • Debris in nozzle needle seat holding it open • Cracked nozzle from overpressure, or overheated nozzle from improper installation of injector Prevention: • Replace worn and high-mileage injectors; do not use these injectors as a foundation.

• Keep fuel system clean, change filters, purchase fuel from reliable sources, and avoid filling from portable fuel tanks or questionable sources.

• Do not use counterfeit injection components that are not properly designed or manufactured.

Failure: Incorrect Injection Rate Indicators: • Rough running and poor cylinder balance

Pic 3 Carbon Pic 4 Excessive Injection

Pic 5 Command piston sand wearing • Large cylinder-to-cylinder exhausts temperature variation Causes: • Poor nozzle flow balance • Nozzle needle lift incorrect (mixed or missing parts) • Partially plugged nozzle • Wire-brushed nozzles

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PRODUCT R&D

Pic 6 Fouling

Prevention: • Keep fuel system clean, change filters, purchase fuel from reliable sources, and avoid filling from portable construction fuel tanks or questionable sources.

• Reject all fuel system replacement parts that have metallic burrs.

• Do not use counterfeit injection components that are not properly designed or manufactured.

• Ensure injectors are serviced or purchased from a reliable source.

• Do not clean nozzles with a wire brush.

Failure: Incorrect Injection Timing and Duration Indicators: • Rough running, poor cylinder balance, and knocking • Piston damage • Large cylinder-to-cylinder exhausts temperature variation Causes: • Ball seat wear • Incorrect injector assembly, parts mixed, or parts missing • Injector needle lift increased to increase output Prevention: • Replace worn injectors • Ensure injectors are serviced, tested, and purchased from a reliable source

DIESEL FUEL FAILURES There are three major causes of injector failure associated with the properties of the fuel itself: excess wear, abrasion, and deposits.

Prior to January 2006, diesel fuels contained relatively large amounts of sulphur. This sulphur is found in the crude oil that gets refined into diesel fuel. The sulphur in the fuel was used as a natural lubricant for the fuel system.

Low sulphur diesel is now mandated in all diesel fuel segments. Diesel has a maximum allowable sulphur content of 10 parts per million (ppm) since January 2009. As refiners removed this sulphur, the lubrication benefits went away. As a result, diesel fuel refineries now put additives in the fuel to restore lubricity.

The standard for measuring this lubricity is ASTM D-6079, which measures the size of a wear scar

Nozzel Tip

between two metal surfaces lubricated with the fuel.

The less lubrication the fuel provides, the larger the wear scar. Many fuel distributors add additional lubricity to the fuel to limit premature wear.

Abrasion While fuel lubricity is an important factor in determining the wear characteristics of the fuel injection system, it’s not the only fuel-related cause of excess wear. The other potential cause of premature injector failure (due to wear) is caused by abrasion (Pic 5).

All fuels contain small amounts of impurities, even the highest-quality diesel fuels. Some of these impurities include very small particles that can pass through even the tightest on-board vehicle filters. If the fuel contains a large amount of these small, insoluble particles, over time they can abrade the injectors as they pass through during normal engine operation (Pic 4).

In extreme cases, this abrasion can significantly alter the fuel spray pattern, causing reduced engine performance. In severe cases, it can even lead to injector failure. Good housekeeping practices by the fuel supplier, and good fuel filtration, can reduce the damage caused by this abrasion.

Deposits While excess wear is important to consider when discussing the cause of injector failure, one major reason for injector failure today is due to excessive build-up of deposits. There are two major types of these deposits - external injector deposits and internal injector deposits.

External injector deposits are generally caused by incompletely burned fuel that builds up around the injector holes. These deposits are referred to as coking deposits (Pic 3).

While in most cases these deposits may not lead to injector failure, they can build up enough to disrupt the fuel spray, which leads to less efficient fuel combustion. This is often observed by the vehicle operator as a noticeable loss in power or lost fuel economy.

Internal diesel injector deposits This deposit doesn’t form on the external tips of the injectors, but rather on the internal parts, such as the injector needles and pilot valves. These deposits often look similar to the coking deposits

Water contamination

(dark brown in colour). While they can form in virtually any type of diesel engine, they typically only cause operational issues in the newer engines with precision injection systems. (Pic 6) Injection pressures near 30,000 psi create a very fine fuel mist spray in the combustion chamber, resulting in more complete burning of the fuel. This yields lower emissions and can also improve fuel economy. In order to maintain these high injection pressures, the injector assemblies have been highly engineered and have very tight clearance tolerances, sometimes as small as 1-3 microns (a human hair is typically 70-100 microns thick).

So, you can imagine it wouldn’t take much material depositing on these parts to cause poor injector needle actuation, leading to poor engine performance. In extreme cases, these deposits can lead to complete sticking or seizing of the injector needles, particularly after the vehicle has been shut down and the engine has been allowed to cool.

As these internal deposits build up, they can cause the same symptoms as the more traditional external coking deposits, namely lost power and reduced fuel economy. In extreme cases in which the injectors begin to completely stick, they can lead to excessive vehicle downtime and high maintenance costs.

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

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine Publisher, Cameron McLachlan, takes a look at the products driving the automotive aftermarket. cameron@aaaa.com.au 25

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NEW ICON SERIES FUEL PUMP RANGE

VALVOLINE API SN PLUS ENGINE OILS Engines have changed; so have the issues associated with them

Premier Auto Trade has launched the new ICON Series range of aftermarket replacement fuel pumps The ICON Series Fuel Pump range has been developed across five application categories: Intank pumps, External pumps, Fuel pump kits, Module Reservoir Assemblies (MRAs), and Mechanical Fuel Pumps.

It includes more than 280 Electric Fuel Pumps and Modules, as well as over 60 Mechanical Fuel Pumps, covering tens of millions of Australian vehicle applications.

Modern petrol engines with Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) and Turbocharged Gasoline Direct Injection (TGDI) technology create more power and improved fuel efficiency than a naturally aspirated engine, explains Valvoline.

But with that greater efficiency, newer engines are experiencing issues that were unheard of in older engines, including Low Speed Pre-Ignition (LSPI).

Why is LSPI bad?

What is LSPI?

To combat LSPI issues, OEMs such as General Motors released their new engine oil specification “dexos1 Gen 2”. And now, API has released a supplement to API SN standard called API SN PLUS to help protect engines with LSPI issues.

API SN PLUS is a new industry standard developed in response to OEMs calling for engine oils which can help prevent LSPI issues in GDI and TGDI engines. By using a latest generation additive chemistry, the lubricating film between piston ring and bores in these engines can help greatly reduce LSPI from occurring.

In short, says Valvoline, the new additive chemistry of API SN PLUS helps dramatically reduce the opportunity for LSPI to occur.

LSPI happens when fuel and air mixture ignites at low engine speed before intended or before the spark time, causing abnormal combustion, which results in excessive pressure in the engine’s cylinders. Turbocharged and GDI engines are very susceptible to low speed pre-ignition. The knocking noises which you hear can result in loss of power and acceleration which can lead to engine damage.

The electric and mechanical fuel pumps and modules in the ICON Series are direct fit replacement kits, which feature OE form, fit and function. ICON Series fuel pump kits also come with direct fit replacement fuel strainers to ensure the correct fitting of the pump into the fuel tank or swirl pot, making installation easy while ensuring correct pump operation.

PAT says the ICON Series is an extensive offering representing Premier Auto Trade’s heritage in quality automotive products, and is covered by a two-year/40,000km warranty.

The ICON Series also includes a range of Universal in-tank and external fuel pump kits, both high and low pressure, suitable for EFI and carburettor systems, for pre-pump, transfer and supply applications.

In addition to the new ICON Series, Premier Auto Trade also offers more than 450 Premium Range pumps, offering a total of over 800 fuel pumps in its aftermarket program. The ICON Series pumps are listed in the OSCAR electronic aftermarket parts catalogue system from AutoInfo, including multiple reference images for easy identification.

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The pressure from the combustion process happening too early can destroy pistons and connecting rods. LSPI’s milder effects might include engine noise or rough idle, but it can cause catastrophic damage that could result in a total engine rebuild.

Introducing the new API SN PLUS engine oils

Key features and benefits of API SN PLUS classified oils: • Help reduce LSPI issues in GDI and TGDI engines.

• Improve fuel economy and better engine performance.

• Better engine protection.

• Fully backwards compatible with API SN and can be used where API SN is recommended.

Valvoline asks you to imagine you are sitting idle in your vehicle and press the accelerator to head down the street. Now, picture the combustion chamber of an engine – where the magic happens.

What should be happening is a small explosion from the mixture of fuel and air which causes the pistons to move up and down. In modern engines, the explosion can happen too early, or better known as pre-ignition. The fuel droplets are released into the combustion chamber and ignited before the piston is in the correct position, potentially causing catastrophic damage.

Five of Valvoline’s products have been upgraded to the new API SN PLUS specification and Valvoline encourage you to keep an eye out for the new release Valvoline products which can be identified by the Valvoline SN PLUS logo.

Valvoline says the bottom line is, modern engines have great benefits. But preventative maintenance is just as important as with older vehicles. It recommends you be sure to follow the manufacturer’s recommended routine maintenance schedule to help keep vehicles you are servicing in great shape.

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

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CLASSIC CLUTCH “Trusted for the best” In addition to its continuously updated range of clutch solutions for the most recent vehicles, Australian Clutch Services says it also offers the largest range of classic and exotic vehicle clutch kits and accessories under its Classic Clutch brand.

Developed to support the growing car restoration industry, ACS says Classic Clutch supplies new, standard replacement components for most applications and offers a rebuild service for kits no longer available.

Utilising more than 30 years of clutch experience, ACS states its highly skilled technicians can rebuild almost any clutch system to like new condition.

As an illustration of the technicians’ rebuild expertise, Classic Clutch has just completed a restoration of a Mercedes Benz 300SL Gullwing and Lamborghini Miura clutch kit for two high class restorations.

“We get all sorts of interesting classic vehicle clutch kits, including everything from classic sports and racing cars to army tanks,” ACS Managing Director, Brenton Jordan, said.

“Our Classic Clutch range is there to ensure our distribution network have access to the most comprehensive range of kits possible for anything that comes through their door.”

The team at Classic Clutch say they understand what is involved with a restoration and sourcing the highest quality components for the vehicle.

“We know how precious classic cars are to their owners and how much care goes into a restoration project,” Brenton said.

“I have completed a number of restorations in the past and fully understand how difficult it can be to source rare components. I’m always pleased to see a classic vehicle back on the road and know we had a small part in helping the owner to achieve this.”

With a huge range of classic vehicle clutch components on the shelf, ACS says Classic Clutch can supply a brand-new kit with pressure plate, friction disc and bearing for most applications.

In some circumstances, it may be necessary to rebuild an existing clutch kit. In these cases, Classic Clutch completely disassembles the clutch and rebuilds each component to the highest

standards ensuring the clutch performs as it would have from new.

With in-house research and development facilities, including clamping force and bearing load testing machines, Classic Clutch thoroughly tests each kit before they are returned to the customer.

“Our clutch rebuild service is trusted by some of Australia’s leading restorers and motorsport teams,” Brenton said.

“We often rebuild and test clutch kits for drag cars and ex F1 cars as well as historic and vintage vehicles. Due to our extensive research and development facility, we have the necessary equipment to ensure the highest levels of performance and quality for any clutch kit.”

For more information about the Classic Clutch range, please visit www.australianclutch.com.au or call 1800 CLUTCH.

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SGF ORIGINAL FLEX COUPLINGS SGF designs and manufactures power transmission products such as flexible couplings for automotive companies around the globe SGF says its Flexible Drive Couplings continue to be fitted as Original Equipment to many vehicles in Europe, North America and Asia while companies such as Ford, General Motors, Chrysler, BMW, Mercedes Benz, VW and Hyundai specify SGF couplings as original equipment.

SGF states its expertise in torque transmission and vibration dampening are also widely used in many other sectors including Industrial, Mining, Marine, Power Generation and Rail industries.

SGF (short for Suddeutsche Gelenksheibenfabrik Gmbh & Co, KG) is a German company that is headquartered in Bavaria and has several manufacturing facilities in Europe and Asia. With approximately 600 employees, the company is represented globally through regional sales and distribution operations in strategic worldwide locations.

A flexible coupling, sometimes referred to as flex disc or Giubo, is used to transmit rotational torque whilst cancelling or reducing NVH (noise, vibration and harshness). It must take up any movement by compensating for axial, radial and angular misalignment in the drivetrain. In a car, flexible coupling(s) are typically located between the transmission and driveshaft and between the driveshaft and the differential, other locations can include the transfer case in 4WD applications.

A good flex coupling must not only be engineered to effectively handle the nominal (operating) and maximum possible torque of the powertrain but must have the required dampening characteristics to cancel and neutralise the range of low and high frequency vibrations generated through the powertrain, hence reducing or eliminating NVH in the vehicle.

Finally, given that a vehicle driveshaft and its components rotate at 2000-5000 or higher RPM, the flex coupling must be engineered to handle all these combined application conditions.

SGF explains it is the original supplier of Flexible Couplings to leading car companies around the globe. In most cases, it says, if you are replacing an OE Flex Coupling chances are that it is an SGF original that has been specifically engineered and tuned for that vehicle.

SGF says its product advantage and competency is based on its trademark Tenpu fibre technology: a combination of unique cord inlays and rubber material that operate in tension load. Unlike SGF imitations and other common couplings, the SGF tension load principle ensures that the special cord inlays transmit most of the load providing a better tolerance to shock loads with a higher power density ratio resulting in the ability to transmit higher torques within a smaller structure.

SGF Couplings are tuned to absorb the disturbing harmonic signature generated by each vehicle’s engine and drivetrain configuration. Radial stiffness and other critical characteristics required for optimal performance are precisely engineered to eliminate or reduce these disturbing harmonic frequencies.

SGF warns you should never use unspecified couplings just because its dimensions are similar as you will potentially damage other components, cause increased NVH and risk injury to the vehicle’s occupants.

Original SGF Flex Couplings are available from all good distributors.

For further information, contact sales@sgfasiapac.com or visit www.sgf.de

MANTIC’S FORD MUSTANG PERFORMANCE CLUTCH Now available at CoolDrive Auto Parts CoolDrive Auto Parts says it is increasing its performance products, with the addition of Mantic Clutches’ newest twin plate clutch which has been built specifically for 5.0 litre 2011-2016 Ford Mustang GT V8 Coyotes.

Part of Mantic’s 9000 Series which is suited for high performance street driving and sprint eventing, the new clutch is available in several twin disc variations.

The Sprung Street Organic is a sprung centre cushioned organic disc, offering superior OE engagement and pedal feel.

The Sprung Street Cerametallic is a sprung centre cushioned button type disc that offers a level of performance above organic discs, while requiring little compromise in driving style and vehicle usage.

The Rigid Street/Track Cerametallic is a rigid, nonsprung centre, but with a cushioned button type disc that allows for a harder driving style with the 30

best compromise for pure performance and drivability.

The Rigid Track Puck, a solid centre, noncushioned metallic disc, is the highest level of the Mantic 9000 range and is recommended for track use only. Designed for pure performance, this clutch offers few compromises. Engagement is sudden, limiting the chance of slippage.

The Mantic kit includes the billet aluminium cover, billet steel pressure plate, twin clutch discs, billet steel intermediate plate, concentric slave cylinder, steel flywheel, aligning tool and bolt kit.

Fully engineered and made in Australia specifically for performance vehicles, the Mantic range consists of high performance, modular, street and track clutches.

torque drive capability and lower MOI (Moment of Inertia).

Mantic clutch development includes dynamometer and field testing on the street and track, with the final products delivering improved

Further information on the Mantic Clutch range is available at CoolDrive branches or online at www.cooldrive.com.au

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NEW GEARWRENCH LOGO, PACKAGING AND PRODUCTS A suite of new products will be launched by the brand in 2018 GearWrench says it is proud to announce its new branding – including a new logo featuring the ‘Forge Ahead’ tagline – as well as reinvigorated packaging.

The company says despite the changes, users can still expect the same great product across existing lines, as well as a suite of new products that are to be launched in 2018.

GearWrench explains that it has updated its branding in an effort to keep it contemporary, relevant, and engaging to Australian mechanics.

Retailers and consumers can expect new packaging to appear as early as September.

Despite only being a part of the Australian handtool market for seven years, this ‘new kid on the block’ says it has entrenched itself and grown its market share at rapid pace thanks to its tireless innovation and in particular, its “industryunrivaled 120 teeth ratchets.”

GearWrench Australia Marketing Head, Kristin Viccars, says that Australian tradespeople have a longstanding trust in the brand and that the call

to invest further in GearWrench was an easy one to make.

“We recently actioned a major overhaul of the GearWrench website, including a more modern UX design for simple and hassle-free navigation through GearWrench vast range of products – the next logical step for us was to update the packaging and logo,” Kristin said.

“Our intention for this rebrand is to ensure the longevity of the GearWrench brand as we continue to Forge Ahead with our customers. This, and ensuring both retailer and consumer are aware that we believe in the brand, something we show via our continued investment in GearWrench.”

Also launching in 2018 is a suite of new GearWrench products, ranging from the Matt Black 30-inch six drawer Tool Trolley complete with stainless steel workbench to the brand new 120XP Extra Long Handle Teardrop Ratchets.

“Not only are we continuing to invest in the tools themselves, our ongoing and winning partnership with Red Bull Holden Racing Team continues to

position GearWrench in high-performance situations – the team won the championship last year, which was a major plus,” Kristin said.

GearWrench assures retailers of a seamless integration of newly packaged product and all existing products. On top of this, it states there will be no changes to existing model numbers to ensure a smooth transition phase.

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

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PUNCTURE-FREE TYRES Self-sealing technology delivers luxury and safety ASV Euro Car Parts says its puncture-free tyres allow you to be comfortable in the knowledge that your tyres have mended themselves without needing to stop your car or replace your tyres for the lifetime of the tyre tread.

It says its superior, innovative technology means puncture damage to the tyre tread self-seals immediately after a puncture. As such, the tyre remains inflated without dropping any pressure, meaning there is no impact to driving or driver’s safety. ASVP-Free tyres seal punctures permanently, so they run, perform and last just like a normal tyre, even after a puncture.

How does it work Memory Nano Polymer Rubber Technology (MNPRT) works automatically when sharp objects pierce through the tyre and simultaneously seals.

When an object penetrates the contact area of the tyre, air pressure and tyre rotation forces the elastomer compound into the puncture hole to seal it right away. When the sharp object is removed, it automatically recovers and prevents any tyre air leakage. The same is true for multiple, unlimited punctures, says ASV.

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Manufactured with patented MNPRT technology, ASV states the tyres can guarantee no air leakage after tyres are pierced. This reduces rolling resistance of the tyres, which improves fuel consumption and tyre wear, thus guaranteeing maximum tyre lifespan.

ASV recommends you remove the object which has caused the puncture as soon as possible, as although the P-free elastomer will seal around the object, travelling on the tyre will cause the object to move around and enlarge the puncture hole.

ASV P-free is an Australian brand, designed to seal punctures in the most extreme temperatures from sub-zero mornings to the hottest outback days.

Key features: • • • • • • •

No more changing tyres on the road Peace of mind for your entire journey Tyre tread self-seals when punctured No loss of tyre pressure No loss of handling and control Permanent self-repair for life of tyre Lifetime warranty on repair compound

• Three-year/40,000km warranty on the tyres (terms and conditions apply) • Extends the tyre life by making the tyres run cooler • Compound is non-flammable, non-toxic and bio-degradable • Priced the same as a mid-range tyre and cheaper than run-flat tyres For more information, call 1300 854 355, email sales@asvpfree.com.au or visit www.asvpfree.com.au

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MECHANICAL PRODUCTS RELOCATES PRODUCTION, REDESIGNS SERIES 18 The Mechanical Products range is available through Prolec Mechanical Products Company (MP) has completed the relocation of its Series 18 circuit breaker family from China to its head office in the USA. With a recently expanded facility, the Series 18 now joins Series 17 and 19 in being produced in the USA.

to provide a better connection while MP has also expanded the amperage range to include 70A.

MP's production factory in the USA is fully accredited to ISO 9001:2008 and features an upgraded production line to improve product quality whilst reducing the production lead time to meet the growing market demands, says those behind the company.

Series 18 is available in both automatic reset (Type I) and manual reset (Type III). There are also two connection options available being #8-32 screw terminals (2A-40A) or the #10-32 threaded stud terminals (10A-70A).

The Series 18 panel mount circuit breaker family was also redesigned.

Whilst the dimensional and performance characteristics remain the same, significant changes include the changing of the case material from thermoset to thermal plastic material which provides improved strength characteristics.

The connecting hardware has also been upgraded

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Mechanical Products says it is the first manufacturer of this product type to offer a 70A, with its amperage range starting from 2A and going through to 70A. which states equipment that must perform in the most demanding environmental conditions relies on the Series 18.

Designed for the harshest of environments, the weatherproof and ignition proof characteristics are especially well suited to applications in Marine, Heavy Equipment, Trucks, Buses and Battery Chargers.

The Series 18 uses a double-break design to achieve increased short-circuit interruption capability. The push-to-reset actuator is trip-free, ensuring the breaker cannot be forced to continuously maintain a closed circuit if an overload condition exists.

Series 18 complies with MIL-STD-202, SAEJ553, ABYC-E11 and SAEJ1428. All materials for the Series 18 were carefully chosen for resistance to UV and flammability, says Mechanical Products,

For more information on the Mechanical Products Series 18 or any of its other circuit breaker products, please contact your local Prolec distributor via www.prolecproducts.com.au

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IM GROUP BRINGS ARNOTT REAR DORMAN TO AUSTRALIA SHOCKS FOR IM Group says it is proud to be the exclusive MERCEDES-BENZ distributor of Dorman products For the 2007-2012 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class SUV and 2006-2011 Mercedes-Benz ML-Class SUV Arnott Air Suspension has introduced SK-3029, an Arnott remanufactured OE rear shock absorber for the left or right side of the 20072012 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class SUV (X164 Chassis) and 2006-2011 Mercedes-Benz MLClass SUV (W164 Chassis) with Airmatic and with Adaptive Damping System (ADS); excluding AMG models.

The shock is inspected, steam cleaned, and spin blasted to bare metal before it is recharged with new high performance shock oil.

Worn components, such as the piston and rod guides, as well as, the seal pack are replaced before being repainted with corrosion inhibiting paint.

The shock and damping coil are dyno and functionally tested to assure OE performance and ADS functionality. Arnott remanufactures and assembles this shock in the USA.

Key features: • • • •

Remanufactured OE Shock Maintains ADS functionality Recharged with High Performance Shock Oil Remanufactured and assembled in the USA

Additional Aftermarket Innovations for the Mercedes-Benz GL and ML Arnott says the featured new aftermarket air suspension strut is a high-quality, cost-effective solution for Mercedes-Benz GL and ML owners concerned about failing OE air suspension parts leaving them with expensive and recurring maintenance problems.

Arnott offers new Front (A-2575) and Rear (A-2596) Air Springs and both Arnott Designed New (AS-2794) and Arnott Remanufactured OE (AS-2450) front air struts along with a new Arnott Air Suspension Compressor (P-3214) for X164 and W164 Chassis SUVs. For more information, visit www.arnottindustries.com 38

IM Group says Dorman is a leading supplier of specialist products. The USA company specialises in producing quality aftermarket products that have high rates of failure as original equipment (OE) parts. Many of these parts are traditionally only available as OE from the dealer in the North American market.

It covers passenger vehicle, trucking and agriculture equipment replacement parts for Japanese, American and European built vehicles.

IM Group says it is proud to be the exclusive distributors of Dorman products, bringing the benefits the North American industry has had since 1908 to Australia and New Zealand.

Much of the Dorman range has been designed to offer an aftermarket alternative to products that have previously been 'Dealer only', IM Group explains.

Products are divided into four major classes: Power-train, Automotive Body, Chassis and Hardware.

The Power-train product line includes intake and exhaust manifolds, cooling products, harmonic balancers, fluid lines, fluid reservoirs, connectors, 4WD components and axles, drain plugs, and other engine, transmission and axle components.

The Automotive Body products include door handles and hinges, window lift motors, window regulators, switches and handles, wiper components, lighting, electrical, and other interior and exterior automotive body components.

The Chassis products include brake hardware and hydraulics, wheel and axle hardware, suspension arms, knuckles, links, bushings, and other suspension, steering and brake components.

The Hardware products include threaded bolts, auto body and home fasteners, automotive and home electrical wiring components, and other hardware assortments Dorman reportedly provides an aftermarket

solution for more than 175,000 parts, from the smallest of automotive fixtures and fittings to truck hubs and hybrid batteries.

The range also includes many sub-components to fix common OE faults where the only OE solution is to replace an entire assembly, saving your customers time and money.

Dorman Categories which IM Group can offer the auto aftermarket Trans-Tasman include: • Outside air temperature sensors • Oil Coolers • Hybrid components • Coolant couplings • Coolant tubes • HID lighting controllers • Intake manifold flapper motors • Auto transmission thermostat housings • Radiator hose connectors • Intake manifold runner controllers • Third brake lights • Replacement BMW Jack point pads • Transmission range sensors • Suspension headlight levelling sensors • Dipstick tubes and funnels IM Group says “check Dorman first” is the mantra with more than 20 different product groups currently in stock ANZ and more becoming available each month. It states the Dorman program provides the work shop with a cost saving alternative to OE and dealer only products.

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

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SCHAEFFLER EXPANDS PORTFOLIO FOR TRANSMISSIONS Under the LuK brand, Schaeffler is expanding its portfolio for transmission repair with the LuK GearBOX Schaeffler says it is offering a complete solution for passenger cars and light commercial vehicles with the LuK GearBOX, which significantly simplifies the repair of manual and double-clutch transmissions as well as differentials.

This repair solution was available until now under the INA brand. The changeover to the LuK brand became effective beginning in August and this year Schaeffler will more than double the LuK GearBOX range for the Automotive Aftermarket.

With the help of the LuK GearBOX, garage professionals can avoid having to turn to a transmission specialist. Now they can replace the most important wear parts in manual and doubleclutch transmissions as well as differentials themselves. Each of these holistic repair solutions is the result of intensive analyses of the most common causes of transmission failure, and contains all necessary components for complete and professional repair.

Besides wear parts like gaskets, O-rings, shaft seals and main bearings, the product is also

delivered with components to repair specific causes of failure. To the 14 versions of the LuK GearBOX currently available, Schaeffler will be adding over 20 new solutions for additional transmission types from Ford, GM, Renault and Volkswagen during the course of this year.

In August, when the rebranding from INA to LuK begins, the Automotive Aftermarket business division of Schaeffler bundles all its repair solutions for the transmission under the LuK brand.

“Our portfolio is always aligned to the needs of garages and conceived for set repair procedures,” Schaeffler Head of Transmission in the Automotive Aftermarket, Daniel Rouven, said.

“Garage professionals know LuK as a brand for transmissions so it makes sense to offer our GearBOX under this product brand now as well.”

The rebranding will have very little effect on customers, says Schaeffler, which says they can continue to sell their remaining inventory of the product under the INA brand. The LuK GearBOX

contains the same components as the previous solution.

Information and ordering systems, like TecDoc and the online catalog from Schaeffler, will automatically take users from the INA GearBOX to the LuK GearBOX in the future. Additional information about the expanded portfolio is available, including repair instructions, product and service information, to registered users at the online portal REPXPERT (www.repxpert.com.au).

Schaeffler presented this repair solution for the first time under its LuK brand at the 2017 Automechanika Birmingham trade fair.

For more from Schaeffler, visit www.schaeffler.com

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SOLAR POWER: WHEN QUALITY PREVAILS You can’t go to a free camp these days without seeing an array of different sized and shaped panels Over the last decade, portable and fixed solar panels have increased in efficiency and provide more power in a much smaller package, making that quick weekend getaway more affordable and appealing.

This has meant that the number of gadgets that come along for the ride is growing, meaning that keeping charge up in the battery is becoming more important to make the trip comfortable. So what makes a good panel for your application, and what should you consider?

output as the temperature of the panel rises upwards of 25c. Monocrystalline panels generally do this to a slightly lesser amount than polycrystalline panels.

An amorphous solar panel on the other hand does not suffer this decrease in output at all until more extreme high temperatures, at which point you

Considerations There are plenty of cheap and nasty solar panels around but when it comes to something you rely on, it’s worth taking the time to do your research before purchasing. We all know that you get what you pay for and if you go for the cheap option you will often end up buying quality the second time around, says Redarc.

Redarc suggests you consider where the manufacturer of this brand will be throughout the warranty period to back up its product, stating that just because it looks similar you still need to ask are the materials as good, and can you trust the claimed performance figures?

So how do you decide what is quality and what is not? There is no formula for working this out, and everyone has a different perception on value for money. How you use the panel (portable, mounted, blanket), how often you use the panel (every day, every weekend, once a year), what conditions you use it under and how big is the impact if it fails when you need it most, are all things to consider when selecting the right panel for you. At the end of the day, Redarc advises that you look to the brands you know and trust for other quality products on your rig. By doing this, it says, you will be headed in the right direction.

So beyond the branding, what else do you look for, posits Redarc?

Solar tech explained There are varying factors that influence the level of charge that we can extract from the panel during daylight hours, says Redarc. These include panel temperature and shading from clouds or obstructions around the campsite, and the angle that the panels face toward the sun.

Polycrystalline and monocrystalline cells are cell types used in rigid (glass covered aluminium framed) panels. All crystalline solar panels, by their nature, gradually lose a small percentage of 42

will have packed up camp and headed for the nearest AC unit many degrees ago. This makes amorphous and monocrystalline the cells of choice for Australian conditions.

Performance out in the sun Crystalline panels do not perform as well with partial shading, whereas an amorphous panel is only slightly affected by minor partial shading.

The angle of solar panels to the sun is one of the factors that can quite easily be controlled with portable solutions, and once again impacts on the output of a crystalline panel the most.

A crystalline solar panel must be as perpendicular to the sun as possible to achieve best performance. Amorphous solar blankets are able to take better advantage of changes in light intensity and having a matt, non-reflective surface means it’s able to make the most of the light even at increased angles from the sun.

Why quality matters Redarc says the greatest advantage of an amorphous solar blanket is the incredible flexibility and the fact it is extremely lightweight.

Therefore, it says, the quality of the assembly of these panels is most critical as they are moved, folded, bent, squished etc. You can have a reasonable cell, but if it is just glued to some canvas then it won’t last long in the real world, Redarc cautions.

The same applies to the frame of rigid panels, whether permanently mounted or portable, the torsional forces and vibration experienced in any automotive application is enough to damage the cells and connections in a thinly framed panel.

The quality of the cell can be reflected in the

surface area also, with highly efficient cells needing less surface area to achieve the same output.

When you see a panel with numerous ‘pieces’ of cell all connected together, Redarc says you can tell that impure or poor-quality cells have been used with the worst bits of the original cell having been cut away leaving the somewhat useable remains to be strung together. Some of the cheapest examples of this even exhibit colour differences within the cell pieces or amongst the groups of cells, explains Redarc.

Any more than one cut in a single square cell (often only there to bump the voltage up quicker as they are series connected) would be the recommended limit, Redarc says, stating not only would you have many more connections to have potential issues with, but it gives you an idea of the quality and purity of the original cells – and cell purity is directly related to performance and longevity.

Finding the right solution Redarc advises that the best thing to do is to seek advice from reputable auto electricians like a local Redarc Solar Installer and RV and 4X4 shops like the nearest ARB. You can also use the Redarc Solar Calculator at www.redarc.com.au/solarcalculator to see how much power is needed for your setup.

For more from Redarc, visit www.redarc.com.au

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MAKING THE RIGHT BENDIX CHOICE Make sure you make the right choice from the Bendix brake pad range by asking these questions Bendix has provided five questions to ask to determine your customers’ brake pad requirements.

determine if the vehicle requires a high friction, high performance brake pad or a quiet long lasting one for low speed multiple stops.

“Choosing the right Bendix brake pad to suit the driver’s driving style goes a long way in meeting the customer’s product expectations and ultimately customer satisfaction,” Bendix Marketing Services Manager, Ian Bott, said.

What vehicle are the brake pads being fitted to?

“With a large variety of Bendix brake pads designed to suit differing driving styles and vehicles, getting answers to the following questions makes it easy to determine which brake pad to use,” Ian commented.

What factors are important to the driver?

The three main areas of importance are positive brake feel; brake noise and the amount of brake dust; as each factor will influence the other to some degree. Low brake noise and good pedal feel can result in the brake pad generating more brake dust yet offering great brake feedback.

How does the driver use his/her vehicle?

It is important to establish how the vehicle is being used. Does the driver spend time in stopstart traffic, long highway motoring or do lots of enthusiastic driving? Establishing this will

Vehicles are used in a wide variety of roles, for example, a delivery vehicle or taxi that carries passengers and goods and is stopping frequently will require a high friction, long lasting brake pad such as the Bendix Heavy Duty.

Is the vehicle used for towing?

If this is the case it is important to establish if the trailer has brakes and also if the vehicle is towing once a year or every day as this will determine the choice of brake pad.

Does the owner haul heavy loads regularly?

It goes without saying that a heavy load will make it more demanding on the brakes.

To assist in the selection of the most suitable brake pad once the drivers answers are clear, Bendix guidance extends further on its extensive range.

For OEM replacement brake pads with better

performance, less dust and noise, Bendix says you should select the General CT or 4WD SUV for sedans, hatches, crossovers and SUVs. If the customer requires high performance brake pads and is less concerned about noise and dust, it says the selection of Ultimate or Street Road Track will satisfy this requirement.

For commercial vehicles, trucks and utilities that carry or tow heavy loads, Bendix recommends the Heavy Duty brake pads as these pads are long lasting yet provide stable performance for everyday towing and carrying loads.

For more information on each of the Bendix brake pads visit www.bendix.com.au or visit the video link https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=isfFORIK3OE

KPM FUEL SYSTEMS & PERFORMANCE FUEL INJECTOR KITS KPM Motorsport says it has been developing some of Australia’s fastest cars and highest quality products over the last 20 years With a focus on quality, precision, reliability and OEM styling; it says its products, packages, and full vehicle builds are “second to none.”

When looking to improve the performance of your vehicle, KPM says it is critical that the fuel system is upgraded to allow safe, reliable power to be maintained.

KPM manufactures and develops its own fuel system products including injectors, fuel pumps and complete fuel system solutions.

KPM manufactures injectors in a range of sizes: 550cc, 1000cc, 1500cc, 1700cc and 2000cc which are suitable for a number of vehicles including Subaru WRX/STI, Mitsubishi Evo, Falcon, Commodore, Mustang and more.

The injectors are precision manufactured at KPM Fuel Systems’ lab, flow tested, and provided with full data sheets to ensure perfect reliability when tuning the vehicle.

To take the guesswork and hassle out of purchasing the correct injectors and components, KPM says it has a full-time, fuel system engineer

who hand picks each kit. This includes selecting the correct injectors for the customer’s application, the required adaptors and plugs, and generating the injector tuning data.

KPM says its fuel injectors are available at competitive trade pricing, and are generally available for next day delivery to metropolitan areas.

KPM Fuel Systems products are locally developed, manufactured and readily available for express postage Australia wide. As well as being locally manufactured, the team at KPM Fuel Systems are on-call, ready to help with any technical enquiries.

KPM says it prides itself on providing the highest quality service, and delivering the best quality products available. This begins with their engineers and expert technicians who develop and test every component of every product and package they offer. All KPM products are designed with OEM fitment as key and each component is designed and engineered specifically to suit its application; meaning hassle-free lifetime use, says KPM.

KPM Fuel Systems also offer full solutions such as OEM fit, drop-in fuel pump kits, regulators, and E85 options also with products available for new model Mustang, Falcon BF – FGX, Commodore VEVF and a range of other vehicles, in both standard and high performance applications.

For more details on KPM Fuel Systems, visit www.kpmfuelsystems.com.au 45

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SIX WHEELER GVM INCREASES Perfect for fleet operations Compliance has become a significant component of most fleet operations. And with changing regulations, variations across state borders and ambiguity around vehicle weights, it is a complex and often misunderstood dynamic to ensure the safety of vehicle operators and other road users.

GVM and vehicle overloading have been a hot topic on social media, especially since some publicised changes to the national standards under which a larger number of second stage manufacturers operate.

Six Wheeler Conversions reports an estimated 70 percent of vehicle and caravan combinations on Queensland roads are overweight according to RACQ (October 2017). It says whilst it unfortunately cannot find any similar statistics in the ‘trades’ arena, it is safe to say there are a large number of overloaded trade vehicles on our roads with their larger trailers and custom canopy and tool box combinations.

The GVMs of most standard 4x4 utility vehicles (typically around 2,950-3,200Kg) do not allow a great deal of payload capacity when built for a

specific role, such as service vehicles. This payload is virtually eliminated once trailers are added into the equation, says Six Wheeler Conversions.

For instance, it says, if a standard Ford Ranger or Mazda BT50 was towing to its maximum towing capacity of 3,500Kg, then this only leaves around 200Kg payload, with that figure reducing with occupants and other gear.

A Six Wheeler Conversion is a sensible solution to combat GVM issues, says the company. With the conversion done, GVMs on most models are increased to 4,495Kg, retaining car licence requirements, and at the same time allowing for towing capacity increases up to 4,500kg.

Whilst not only lifting GVMs, the addition of the third axle also increases usable tray space – taking a dual cab ute to a 2.4m long tray, space cabs up to three metres and Single Cabs to 3.5m; all of which adds to the functionality of the vehicle.

The other major benefit, says Six Wheeler Conversions, is safety and road handling. With 50 percent more rubber on the road and improved suspension and the extra braking from the third

axle, the company says a six wheeler will outperform a heavily loaded ute all day.

With less sway and body roll, Six Wheeler Conversions reports the vehicle is far safer to drive and far more comfortable than the equivalent rated small truck, all reducing operator fatigue.

With increased payload and tray capacities, fleet operators can also potentially reduce vehicle fleet numbers by utilising a Six Wheeler which can safely carry a larger team and all their operational equipment.

Long range fuel tanks, water tanks, tow controllers, winches and a raft of other recovery accessories are also available to create a complete package with much lower purchase and maintenance costs than light trucks or the American imports, says Six Wheeler Conversions.

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

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CORGHI UNVEILS WORLD FIRST Corghi has introduced Uniformity, the world’s first diagnostic tyre changer Corghi says Uniformity is revolutionising Tyre Changer Technology, boasting that it is breaking new ground in both safety and efficiency as the world’s first ‘Diagnostic Tyre Changer’.

“This truly is ground breaking technology,” Corghi Australia General Manager, Andrew Cornwell, said.

The Uniformity reportedly halves the number of steps it takes to fit a new tyre, delivering increases in workshop efficiencies in addition to improved workflow and safety as well as increased profitability, says Corghi.

“This is a massive step forward in workshop technology that will allow workshops to turn jobs around much faster,” Andrew said.

Using the current technology, fitting a tyre is a four step process – Mounting, Diagnostic, Match Mounting and Balancing.

The Uniformity completes Mounting, Diagnostics and Match Mounting tasks simultaneously, leaving only the balancing to be completed before the wheel and tyre assembly is ready to be fitted back onto the vehicle.

“The Uniformity is the first Tyre Changer that

allows match-mounting to be carried out directly on the tyre changer, transforming it into a real wheel diagnosis centre,” Andrew explained.

“This is essential for the professional who wants to provide clients with a first-class service.”

The key is the unique variable thrust pressing roller and the precision laser sensor. This delivers a complete diagnostic evaluation of each individual wheel and/or the entire set of vehicle wheels. It analyses the wheel geometry in a loaded and unloaded state, simulating behaviour on the road and favouring driver comfort and safety, in addition to completing the normal tyre mounting and demounting operations.

The analysis takes into account the geometry of the rim and the uniformity of the tyre and includes checking radial, lateral rigidity and geometrical deformations that cause on-road vibrations.

“The Uniformity resolves the vibration problem by providing the tyre fitter with suggestions about how to best mount the tyre on the rim, making it possible to reduce the actuation work time by at least 25 percent and reducing the total time by up

to 50 percent when compared with traditional tyre fitters,” Andrew said.

Featuring ‘Smart’ technology, the Uniformity guides the operator step-by-step through the tasks that need to be performed to successfully mount the tyre. Each operation is presented in a very simple manner thanks to the modern and intuitive graphic video interface.

Finally, the machine resolves the detected faults by optimising the coupling position between the rim and tyre, thus avoiding unnecessary steps between tyre changers and wheel balancers.

To find out more, visit www.corghiaustralia.com.au or call 1800 267 444.

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AUTOMOTIVE TRANSMISSION SOLUTIONS From ZF Aftermarket ZF says it is a global leader in automotive transmissions technology and a key supplier to the world’s leading car manufacturers.

Here in Australia, ZF Aftermarket says it supports those original-equipment products with a range of transmission parts: everything needed for passenger car transmission servicing and repair.

Whether it’s new or exchange units, clutches, components, automatic transmissions, manual transmissions, genuine transmission spare parts or repair kits – ZF Aftermarket says it has a solution to every problem.

ZF Aftermarket stocks more than 100,000 spare parts for its passenger car transmissions sourced via the ZF global network.

Transmission repair and replacement If a passenger car transmission needs servicing, reacting quickly and offering a quality solution is of utmost importance. Whether it’s an exchange unit or a repair, ZF Aftermarket says it can provide an optimum solution for all passenger car transmission needs – tailored to individual requirements.

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Genuine spare parts for car transmissions ZF Aftermarket passenger car transmissions parts are subject to the same quality and inspection processes as ZF’s volume production components, so its repair and replacement components all boast tried-and-tested original-equipment quality.

ZF Aftermarket is able to offer genuine spare parts for up to 15 years after volume production has finished, and even longer for older models.

Transmission oils All ZF transmissions are factory-filled as standard with semi-synthetic or fully synthetic premium grade oil ZF-LIFEGUARDFLUID. The optimised lubrication properties have been developed to help cut fuel consumption and therefore promote the reduction of CO emissions.

Under normal conditions the oil lasts throughout the vehicle’s lifecycle, however it can sometimes age prematurely under excessive loads – such as with frequent use of trailers or fast, sporty driving.

Therefore, ZF recommends an oil change after every 100,000 kilometres or eight years.

ZF Aftermarket can provide ZFLIFEGUARDFLUID for repairs and servicing, and also supplies quality transmission oils to the independent aftermarket.

Technical advice and service ZF Aftermarket provides active support to its customers so that the right transmission solution to optimally adapt it to specific application requirements, and thus enhance vehicle performance and reduce operating costs. In addition, ZF Aftermarket can assist with advice on the most suitable solutions from the many auto transmissions options available.

For more information, visit www.zf.com/au

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MONROE MAGNUM HEAVY DUTY SHOCK ABSORBERS Monroe says these shock absorbers ensure longer tyre life, safety and cost efficiencies As any experienced heavy commercial vehicle technician will tell you, truck tyre wear patterns present a wealth of information relating to under-vehicle problems.

Tyre wear can identify several potentially dangerous issues: • Steer or drive axle misalignment • Mismatched tyres to truck applications • Mechanical or drive train problems • Worn axle components • Worn ride control or suspension components Monroe says identifying and correcting underlying wear causes should always take place before the investment is made for a new set of tyres.

The cost of a new set of Monroe Magnum heavy duty shock absorbers is approximately the same as the cost of just one truck steer tyre, damaged as a result of worn shock absorbers, says Monroe. Worn shock absorbers are not only uncomfortable for heavy duty vehicle drivers, they can also impact safety, lead to truck downtime and increase operational expenses.

Today, more emphasis is being placed on lowering maintenance costs to improve the bottom line for heavy duty transport operators. Replacement of heavy duty shock absorbers can be a low-cost answer to avoid future highcost problems, says Monroe.

Worn shock absorbers on heavy duty vehicles are easy to overlook. They're quiet, with no warning lights to see or screeching parts to hear. Shock absorbers wear out from miles of driving in a variety of conditions. Under normal conditions, heavy duty shock absorbers stroke an average of 1.087 times for every kilometre driven. That's 21.7 million times every 20,000 kilometres.

There is no doubt that tyres are the major purchase item for many heavy duty transport vehicle fleet owners and owner-operators. Well performing shock absorbers help control excessive vibration by keeping the tyres in firm contact with the road. This can reduce tyre cupping, one of several causes of premature tyre failure.

The advantage of replacing worn heavy duty shock absorbers doesn’t end there.

Along with maximising vehicle tyre life, many truck components benefit from a reduction in excess vibration, including batteries and running lights, radiators and even body components resulting in reduced failures and maintenance costs.

Doesn't forget payloads. A well maintained truck, with good shock absorbers to control excessive vibration, can help reduce damage to both trailers and their cargo.

Eliminating downtime by keeping your heavy duty vehicles rolling is the goal of a regularly performed maintenance approach, including the regular replacement of worn heavy duty shock absorbers.

Monroe says its Magnum Shock Absorbers will: • Improve safety • Reduce tyre wear • Reduce battery cracking • Prevent cab mount failure • Reduce damage to radiator connections • Increase the lifetime of vehicle lamps • Enhance braking effectiveness • Extend the life span of driveline components • Reduce shifting cargo drive • Reduce driver fatigue • Enhance driver comfort

• Improve fuel consumption Monroe Magnum ride performance product advantages include ease of fitment with single bonded bushings that ensure very high durability, along with a high temperature resistant sealing system and hydraulic fluid. The Monroe Magnum specially formulated semi-synthetic fluid improves damping behaviour through more consistent damping over a wide temperature range.

It says more consistent heavy duty vehicle damping is also achieved with the Monroe Magnum anti-wear coated piston ring, providing high levels of wear resistance.

Forces on chassis components are kept to a minimum with the Monroe Magnum double action valving system during bump and rebound actions. This assists greatly to achieve safer commercial vehicle handling performances.

The Monroe Magnum heavy duty range covers the key sectors of truck suspension requirements including cabin dampers, seat dampers and axle shock systems. This heavy duty shock absorber range also provides world class leading quality through durable suspension performance, followed up by Australian sales support that is second to none in the market.

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

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INTEREQUIP INTRODUCES NEW LINE-UP Air conditioning services can be a great add on sale or stand alone profit centre Getting the right machine can help or hinder the profitability of this service, says Interequip, which has been involved with AC machines for many years.

“It became apparent early on that one of the most susceptible parts of the machine was the actual gauges. They need calibration, are not vibration tolerant and are vulnerable to physical damage,” Interequip Director, Alex Visser, said.

“We decided to see if we could find a product that was one step above the competition in relation to this weakness.

“It needed to include all the features our customers came to love about our existing range but the machine needed to be fast; faster than our competition.

“We understood that vacuum pump specifications and speed were completely irrelevant to what the AC machine was actually capable of delivering.

“So we set about looking for a machine which could deliver real world evacuation volume and speed data.”

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Interequip says it is proud to introduce a new line up to its “already robust range.”

The A1000 and A2000 both feature screen displays with graphical gauges running off of very accurate pressure transducers. Both are fully automatic machines and most importantly, says Interequip, they can be operated manually or in full auto mode.

“Many of our customers appreciate this feature as it means they can evacuate a system to replace a component before charging,” Alex said.

Older technology machines are fully automatic only, meaning the operator needs to run over and switch the machine off after the evacuation process has been completed to change system components.

Interequip explains its two new machines can be set to evacuate then set to full auto mode to complete the system vac down and charge. Other great features include a heater for the colder States, automatic measurement of oil removed and automatic addition of the same amount of oil into the new charge.

Both machines feature an automatic service counter. This ensures the easily changeable internal filter won’t get blocked or inadvertently induce particles to a new system. The AutoCool A1000 and A2000 are both supplied with printers and vehicle database.

These new machines also do an automatic leak test on the cars system. All charging data is recorded to ensure compliance with Government inspectors. The A1000 is a touch screen LCD display the A2000 is a monitor style display.

For more detail, please contact Interequip on 18000EQUIP (1800 037 847) or go to www.ie.tools or www.interequip.com.au

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ARB LAUNCHES ‘JACK’ ARB says no good story ended with 'nothing went wrong along the way' A story worth telling is often the result of the misfortunes that happen on the journey. Being prepared for when things go wrong is vital to any off-road adventure; and being prepared starts with recovery equipment.

ARB has introduced JACK: not a new member to the engineering team, but rather the outcome of a group of engineers being challenged to bring the latest in hydraulic technology to the recovery space.

JACK; with no holds barred, is ARB’s new off road long-travel hydraulic jack. ARB says not only is it a visually stunning piece of equipment, the functionality and safety benefits over the common mechanical jack are hard to ignore.

From the moment JACK hits the ground, its sturdy pivot base can be rotated a full 360 degrees for optimal placement on unstable grounds. The forged aluminium hook can be quickly and easily locked into one of nine hooking points on the extruded outer body of JACK. Once a connection is made between JACK’s hook and a dedicated lifting point on the vehicle, each full effortless pump of the jack handle will raise the vehicle 13mm.

At this point of recovery, a key benefit of JACK over mechanical jacks are the huge reduction in effort required to raise the vehicle. JACK's ergonomic handle is positioned at the top of the jack allowing the operator to remain upright. The hydraulic design allows quick and short partial cycles of the handle rather than full strokes to achieve the same result.

JACK has an approved working capacity of 2000kg and while short and compact, allowing storage in your 4WD drawer, JACK boasts an impressive lift height of 1230mm (48inch).

When it comes time to return the vehicle to solid ground, JACK is fitted with a safe and simple release valve. The two-stage hydraulically controlled release system (at the touch of a lever), allows JACK to retract slowly for the first two

thirds and quicker for the final third. The hydraulic release means there is no risk of a brutal handle recoil or load drop due to mechanical slip.

So, when it’s time to hit the tracks, ARB says JACK might be just the extra muscle you need to get you home again.

JACK has a retail price of $995.00* RRP. *East Coast Metro Pricing For more information, visit www.arb.com.au

BECKTEC COATED BRAKE DISCS Available now from Donaldson Motors To undertake service or repair work on today’s complex vehicles, Donaldson Motors says technicians need to be sure they are fitting a brand they can trust with product quality that both they and their valued customers can depend on.

The distributor of European Passenger Car, Light Commercial and Heavy Commercial vehicle aftermarket products says it offers two quality European brands, Diesel Technic and Borg and Beck, stating that both are renowned and trusted aftermarket suppliers.

them or remove any oil residue before fitting – they can go straight from the box to the hub.

As well as protecting the disc inside and out against rust and corrosion, the water-based coating using Zinc-Aluminium flakes also provides improved thermal properties, which results in better performance. Naturally, says Donaldson Motors, there is no compromise on the make-up of the high carbon material used or weight reduction in their production.

Under the Borg and Beck brand, Donaldson Motors offers a range of Becktec coated brake discs as well as double rubber shimmed brake pads which it says provides the ideal solution for the discerning professional.

Borg and Beck’s Becktec double rubber shimmed pads utilise fine copper-free metallic fibres consistent with the original equipment (OE) formulation. Donaldson Motors explains that this mitigates the corrosive effects and noise associated with coarser, less expensive pads that wear quickly and perform less effectively.

Becktec coated discs incorporate innovative water-based technology to produce a fully protected disc which not only looks good and remains rust-free, but also saves time during installation as technicians do not have to clean

Plus, in-line with OE specification, the pads are chamfered and grooved and where applicable, are supplied with integral wear leads, sensors, bolts and accessories; offering a premium aftermarket solution.

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Donaldson Motors says all of the aftermarket parts are manufactured to the highest standard and undergo rigorous testing to ensure their reliability and durability.

Donaldson Motors also supplies products across the following product groups: steering and suspension, clutch components, braking, filters, cooling, cables, wheel bearings, CV boots and steering gaiters, rotating electrics, wiper blades, turbo hoses, commercial vehicle and more.

For more information about the products available from Donaldson Motors, please call its sales team on 1300 688 531 or visit www.donaldsonmotors.com.au

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PRODUCTS

SIGMATECH INTRODUCES COMMON SENSE GVM UPRATING For popular 4WD vehicles Sigmatech Engineering Consultants (Sigmatech) says it ‘wrote the book’ on vehicle modifications in 1990 and again in 1995 with two landmark books aimed at helping enthusiasts through the modified vehicle engineering minefield.

“Although the original GVM is 3350kg, the allowable axle loads for the front and rear axles are 1700kg and 1950kg respectively. Add them together and the combination is 3650kg, which we can use to our advantage.

Some recent releases in Sigmatech’s product lineup are GVM upgrades for the Toyota LandCruiser 200 series, 70 series, and certification products for other vehicles currently in development.

“It would be crazy for Toyota to rate the GVM at 3650kg, because any variation in distribution of mass inside the vehicle would cause axle overloading. We know the limit isn’t the engine or drivetrain, as the GCM is rated to 6850kg. So we presume Toyota reduces this GVM number to provide some allowance for mass to be distributed in different ways.

Sigmatech states the 200 series is an amazing example of engineering which even at the increased GVM, handles, brakes, and accelerates at state-of-the-art levels of performance. The only issue is these vehicles are often sold into applications that do not fit with their design specification.

For instance, the LandCruiser 200 VX TurboDiesel has a kerb weight of 2705kg (no occupants or luggage, but with oils, fuel, coolant, etc). Once you add a steel bull bar, winch, roof rack, towbar, rear compartment drawers and put two people on board, the vehicle then weighs 3300kg. The original GVM is 3350kg, so a decent esky and some supplies are enough to push the mass into illegal territory. Add three people to the second row seats, a 10 percent ball load of a 2500kg caravan, and the vehicle’s axle loading has ballooned to just over 3700kg – and that’s without luggage on the roof.

“A heavier vehicle is the only fix in the most extreme cases, but for those who are not intending to have all of the accessories, five people on board, and the tow ball load of a large caravan, there are ways to make this work,” Sigmatech Senior Partner, Andrew George, said.

“Simple testing of braking, handling, and measuring the change in the chassis at the higher GVM can be done to prove the vehicle is very capable of being operated at an increased GVM. A few hours with weight measuring equipment and some test mass will allow an understanding of how much variation in mass distribution a vehicle with a specific set of accessories could expect.”

Sigmatech claims the result is the ability to upgrade the GVM of the vehicle to 80-100kg below the sum of the allowable axle loads, which avoids the likelihood of exceeding OE axle load limits through variations in payload distribution.

Its customers have found this enough for them to use their vehicles the way they intended.

One thing that isn’t negotiable at Sigmatech is the GCM. The reason, Sigmatech explains, is it takes a brave person to sign off on the risk to engine and driveline when the ultimate mass of the vehicle combination is increased.

“We haven’t seen evidence that increasing the GCM will cause reliability issues with the

AAP: FOCUSING ON RANGING AAP’s range covers automotive spare parts such as steering, suspension, driveline, brakes, and engine components Australian Automotive Parts (AAP) is an Australian owned Wholesaler of Automotive Aftermarket Spare Parts.

The company says staying ahead of the market on ranging is paramount.

In order to sustain this, it says significant resources have been applied leaving the business in a strong position to react quickly to future shifts in the car parc.

This year, AAP has seen the Selby Suspension Program grow dramatically and as a result have ranged accordingly.

They have added an additional 130 part numbers on Control Arms to support market demand.

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Outside of the Selby program, the Ultima brand has ranged steadily adding over 80 new part numbers to its popular Shock Absorber program along with 50 new Hydraulic part numbers, 65 calipers and 70 new Disc Rotors.

AAP says another important addition to the business in 2018 has been the introduction of Geomet coating on all Ultima European Disc Rotors.

Geomet coating is an anti corrosive coating which brings the Ultima Euro range in line with OE European standard.

For more information, visit www.australianautomotiveparts.com

LandCruiser 200, but I can’t imagine a reasonable defence against the likely claim when an engine fails after prolonged operation at high duty cycle,” Sigmatech Senior Partner, Philip Dunn, said.

“The most important thing for owners of 4WD vehicles is to receive quality advice on options to avoid exceeding the GVM. Most situations are different, and you need to play within the rules to avoid damage to your vehicle, insurance issues, and overloaded vehicle fines. And the advice needs to be specific to your needs.”

Sigmatech is ready to work with individual projects for customers or contribute to the development of aftermarket accessories for manufacturers.

For more information, contact Sigmatech on 0407 521 565 or info@sigma-tech.com.au or visit www.sigma-tech.com.au or www.facebook.com/sigmatechengineering

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MEMBER FEATURE

MSA 4X4: AN INDUSTRY LEADER IN STORAGE SOLUTIONS In 1999, with a plan to travel the country, Shane Miles identified the need for quality canvas accessories products Fast forward to today, and MSA 4X4 Accessories is renowned for creating some of the 4WD Industry’s most innovative products.

Whilst the company has remained true to its roots with quality canvas storage products, it reports they now form only a small part of the complete range offering of MSA 4X4 Accessories.

MSA 4X4 says it prides itself on its original products which include the world first, revolutionary patented Drop Slide; the patented Explorer Aluminium Storage Drawer System which delivers a whole new level of access to the drawer contents; the Fridge Barrier system; the original Water Bra; its fully adjustable Air Lumbar Support systems; and an extensive range of 4WD accessories that have stood the test of time.

Shane Miles is the proud owner of MSA 4X4, and the man behind the products that MSA 4X4 is famous for.

His passion is in the detail of his products, as no matter where you look, everything is carefully thought out for maximum practicality, quality and ease of use.

When he invented the drop slide, only straight fridge slides existed.

“There was one company who had designed the tilt fridge slide, and after using it, I found that I didn’t like the way it worked,” Shane explained.

“I could see some flaws – that’s why I came up with the drop slide. No one had yet imagined the

possibility of a Drop Slide, let alone the engineering required to make it a reality.

“The platform had to lower, but how do I get it to easily raise back up? And that’s where the design came from. I wanted it to function as a drop slide or a straight slide. It was a necessity.

“People didn’t necessarily always want to drop them. I didn’t want it to just lower – I also wanted it to extend out further.

“If you just lower the fridge, you can get into all sorts of grief, especially around the tailgate. So, you actually want it to come out further, not just drop.

“Then you’ve at least got half your fridge past the tailgate. The awesome part of the Drop Slide design is that its very simple to use and it lowers the fridge platform completely level (horizontal) throughout its function and finishes with the overextension.”

Unfortunately, Shane didn’t know much about the patent process when he invented some of his earlier products, and as a result, a lot of copies were made and claimed by others.

By the time the Drop Slide came along, Shane had learnt the hard way how best to protect his IP with patents.

Due to the large-scale popularity and commercial interest in these Drop Slides, MSA 4X4 has had to attribute a significant amount of time and money to defending their design from copies, Shane explains.

No one had yet imagined the possibility of a Drop Slide, let alone the engineering required to make it a reality

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The MSA 4X4 Drawer System is covered in patented features

“Unfortunately, while the law is on our side, we still have to go through the expensive and timeconsuming process of going through the courts to have copies of our products removed from the industry, and claim money lost,” he said.

“We have started naming and shaming infringing companies, to act as a deterrent to those companies that may be considering copying Aussie inventions.”

MSA 4X4 says its products come from necessity and not being able to source the perfect product that they need.

“We think way outside the square and design the products that we think are by far the best. We cover the downfall in everyone else’s products,” Shane said.

“When we design any new product, it has to be as safe as possible; we’re all about safety. It also must be extremely tough and durable; we can’t

Designed from the ground up to establish the way a quality 4WD storage system should be

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MEMBER FEATURE obviously something that we take seriously here at MSA 4X4, as items of load (cargo) carried inside the vehicle can weigh 20 – 30 times their own static weight during impact, which is capable of causing severe bodily injuries or even death to vehicle occupants.

“The MSA 4X4 Explorer Aluminium Storage Drawer System is covered in patented features: the patented ‘stay-open block’ prevents a fully loaded, open drawer from unexpectedly slamming shut whilst still in use, and doubles as two electrical contacts that, when the drawer is open, create an electrical circuit without any moving wires to power the included LED strip light!

“The patented ‘Pro-Glide’ system utilises the side of the drawers and the frame as the actual slide unit, which means that no usable storage space inside the drawers are lost to traditional side slide runners. The over extension using custom sealed bearings, removes the need for additional slide components, maximising storage space.

MSA 4X4 products come from necessity and not being able to source the perfect product that they need

have any failures, and with our pretty ordinary outback roads, it must be safe, tough and the highest quality that we can manufacture.

“It must also be simple, not over complicated or difficult to use.”

After years of using other companies’ drawer systems in MSA 4X4’s company vehicles, Shane says he knew that he could build something better that would make life easier for people, and redefine storage drawer systems.

The objective was to create a brand-new drawer system that was designed from the ground up that completely revolutionised what a storage drawer system should be.

After more than three years in development, the Explorer Aluminium Storage Drawer System launched in late 2016, and as testament to its vision, immediately became one of MSA 4X4’s most in demand product ranges.

MSA 4X4 says the Explorer Aluminium Storage Drawer System has re-set the benchmark in quality 4WD Drawer Systems from a safety, functionality and quality perspective, and has also opened the door for customers wanting the complete MSA 4X4 storage solution fit out, which includes Drawers, Drop Slides, Fridge Barriers, Tourer and Basket Pack rooftop bags, Seat Organisers and a multitude of canvas storage accessories.

“Our Explorer Aluminium Storage Drawer System has been successfully tested to ADR3/02, ADR34/01 and ADR42 and we even include a copy of the Crash Test Certificate with every drawer sold. It is the first ever aluminium drawer system to pass crash testing, which we’re very proud of!” Shane explained.

“Crash tested cargo barrier mount points and child restraint points are incorporated into the rear of the drawer frame as standard. Safety is

Most drawer systems are available in single and double drawer configurations, as well as multiple lengths to suit utes and wagons

“Further, the injection moulded design-registered lock system with purpose-built injection-moulded frame and aluminium components help deliver a 100 percent safe and secure lock system that cannot be levered open from underneath, providing safe storage. An anodised knurled aluminium handle has also been designed for comfort and practicality.

“Whilst every detail has been taken into account and engineered specifically to deliver the best and most reliable 4WD Storage Drawer System available in the market, MSA 4X4’s Lifetime Guarantee ensures all Explorer Aluminium Storage Drawer System customers have the peace of mind that if anything were to go wrong, they’d be looked after.”

With the strength of its brand, innovative growing product range and national stockist network, MSA 4X4 Accessories says it is a company positioned for growth.

Want to join the MSA 4X4 Accessories stockist network?

MSA 4X4 says its customers are its most important asset and that its stockists play an important role in providing those customers with support and service both prior to and after the sale.

The company says much of its success comes from the long-term loyalty of its customers and the mutual respect built with its stockist partners.

If you’d like more information on how you can become an MSA 4X4 Accessories stockist, please contact your local State Sales Manager: Robert Ardolic (VIC/TAS/SA) on 0499 016 605; David De Castro (QLD/WA) on 0487 045 555; or Will Campbell (NSW/NT) on 0497 000 747 or email MSA 4X4 Accessories on sales@msa4x4.com.au For more information on MSA 4X4 Accessories, visit www.msa4x4.com.au 61

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RUNNING COOL – UNDERSTANDING ECMCONTROLLED THERMOSTATS In this article, AutoMate Training’s Harrison Boudakin explores the theory and practical operation of electronically-controlled thermostats, and why this technology has become so important to modern automakers As inevitably as smoke follows fire, for more than a century now heat has followed internal combustion.

In automotive terms, thermal management has been a challenge for the ages, but the need to keep cars running at the right temperature has also produced some bursts of great innovation from the world’s automotive engineers.

Indeed, when Wilhelm Maybach launched the first ever racing car – the Mercedes 35hp – back in 1901, arguably his most impressive achievement was the development of its radical cooling system.

With an ingenious honeycomb radiator design, Maybach’s racer slaughtered its competitors because it was able to stay cool while they were not, giving it a monstrous advantage that soon guaranteed it a host of imitators.

Of course, over the following decades cooling system design has come a long way. With smallcapacity, high-efficiency engines now the norm, and turbocharging increasingly de riguer even in the most basic of automobiles, cooling systems have had to become more complex and more capable to keep up.

In particular, the squeeze of the emissions regulators has forced manufacturers to work harder on maximising engine efficiency – and one of the most significant factors in determining how clean a motor runs is whether it’s operating at the right temperature. Typically, the combustion process in a light vehicle motor is most efficient

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at an operating temperature of between 100 and 110ºC – so ideally engineers would tune cooling systems to keep engines in that thermal range for as long as possible.

Unfortunately, it wasn’t always easy to make that happen. Conventional thermostats, which have been used reliably for decades, nevertheless have some critical design limitations. Principally, they have only one set ‘trigger temperature’, and often start to open a few degrees before that temperature. This means cooler radiator fluid mixes with hot engine coolant prematurely, removing critical heat energy from the engine during warm up, resulting in longer warm-up times, increased emissions and higher fuel consumption.

Furthermore, because an engine requires a certain power reserve in the case it’s ever operated at full load, conventional thermostats are generally tuned to open earlier than would be necessary in the majority of normal operating conditions.

Typically, a conventional thermostat would be set to trigger at around about 50ºC, opening the cooling circuit early to create a ‘safety’ cushion in case the engine suddenly becomes more stressed under a burst of extended acceleration or hillclimbing. While this is crucial to minimise the risk of overheating, this approach nevertheless ensures that engines running conventional thermostats permanently operate in a thermal zone below the ideal temperature for maximum efficiency.

However, as the noose of emissions regulation has increasingly tightened over the last decade, this ‘gap’ between actual and ideal engine operating temperatures has become ever more problematic, forcing OEMs to re-think thermostat design with a view to making them smarter, faster to respond to changes in conditions, and thus able to maintain closer control over a motor’s operating temperature at any given moment.

The map- or ECM-controlled thermostat is the result of that development work. Increasingly finding their way into modern combustion engines, these electronically-regulated thermostats take advantage of the high-level of computer control inside today’s ICE motors and are designed to optimise the combustion process by safely raising the operating temperature to a consistently higher level than a traditional thermostat.

So how do electronically-controlled thermostats work, and what makes them different to olderstyle thermostat designs?

Well, the most important factor is that an ECM thermostat can be opened and closed independently of coolant temperature. This is achieved through the use of an internal heating element and a return spring, and it allows the ECM to pro-actively adjust the level of coolant flow by regulating the heater inside the thermostat

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COOLING

itself, depending on a variety of factors, such as engine speed, temperature and load.

Compare this to a traditional re-active thermostat, which only opens and closes relative to the temperature of the coolant flowing past it, allowing engine temperatures to fluctuate more dramatically and therefore reducing the amount of time the motor spends in that ideal thermal zone.

Part of what makes an ECM-style thermostat more effective is its location: that is, typically between the lower radiator hose and the cylinder head inlet. By virtue of this positioning, the thermostat experiences far lower temperatures than conventional thermostats, which are generally placed at the engine coolant outlet.

Then there’s the design of the ECM thermostat itself. The thermostat and the distribution housing are mated together, housing a heating element and – more often than not – two coolant sensors.

The first coolant sensor measures the temperature of the coolant at the cylinder head, while the other measures outlet thermostat temperature. The thermostat itself looks broadly the same as a regular type design, only with an ECM, the heating element is encased in a wax-filled capsule.

Why the wax? Well, here’s how it works. When the sensors pro-actively detect more cooling will be

required, such as in the event the car begins travelling uphill and engine speed and load increases, the ECM sends a PWM signal to the heater inside the thermostat. The voltage supplied to the heating element then quickly melts the wax inside the capsule, expanding it and acting against a lifting pin, which opens the valve. When the ECM detects the load has decreased, the PWM signal stops, the wax cools down and the return spring quickly closes the valve.

For example, the use of low-grade coolant can lead to material fatigue inside the thermostat.

Prior damage caused by thermal overloading during cooling system maintenance can also precipitate early failure of the thermostat.

Therefore, it is best practice to always replace ECM thermostats whenever other faulty parts in the cooling system are replaced, as a nonfunctioning thermostat can have severe consequences for an engine.

The result is a thermostat that is essentially ‘keyed-in’ to the car’s brain, and therefore able to anticipate when engine temperatures will increase, rather than simply react to thermal changes after they occur. Engineers can therefore tune engines to run far closer to their optimal operating temperature, without the fear that a spike in temperature could damage the engine in the event the thermostat cannot respond quickly enough to the change.

As automakers continue to push the boundaries of performance, efficiency and economy with every new model, systems like ECM controlled thermostats are playing an important role in helping OEMs achieve the increasingly-lofty expectations set during the development of modern engines.

ECM controlled thermostats have been a boon for increasingly-emissions conscious OEMs, and those in the aftermarket will already be encountering more and more vehicles fitted with this technology.

While ECM-controlled thermostats are not subject to high levels of natural wear (like conventional type thermostats) and are designed to last for the life of an engine, there are external factors which can cause them to prematurely fail.

Therefore, understanding the theory and practice behind this technology is vital for every modern technician. AutoMate Training can help you do that. With more than 370 training videos, covering fundamental and advanced automotive systems, AutoMate is the ultimate online upskilling platform for the technician who wants to be the best they can be.

Visit www.automatetraining.com today for a free trial of this training platform.

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BLUECHEM HAS YOUR RADIATOR SORTED Bluechem has a suite of products designed especially for keeping your radiator in tip top condition Made in Germany and well established in more than 90 countries around the world, Bluechem says its powermaxx range of service aids will not only deliver a valuable commercial return for your workshop, but also improve customer satisfaction with no additional time or labour.

Bluechem Australia offers a complete range of reliable products to keep your cooling systems clean and operating effectively, including the following.

speed before draining the fluid.

You should then remove all expansion tanks which are not part of the coolant circle and clean them manually before rinsing the entire cooling system thoroughly with clear water. The final step of the process is to carry out the exchange of the coolant in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.

Radiator Flush

K1 and K2

Bluechem’ powermaxx Radiator Flush removes operational deposits in the entire cooling system.

Bluechem’s powermaxx Radiator Oil Cleaner is comprised of two components - K1 and K2. These products are designed to reliably clean the entire cooling system and durably remove oily deposits caused by defective cylinder head gaskets, failed transmission oil coolers or leaking radiators.

It also removes lime and fur deposits, protects against rust and corrosion, dissolves dangerous radiator sludge and cleans water coolers, boilers and heat exchangers while making valves, thermostats and water pumps free again.

Other operationally-caused contamination, such as coolant sludge, lime and scale will also be dissolved and removed while valves, thermostats and water pumps will be returned to optimal performance – optimising operating safety and increasing the lifespan of the cooling system.

At the same time, the use of high-quality lubrication agents will ensure all metal and rubber parts are protected during the cleaning process.

Bluechem says the use of Radiator Flush increases the reliability and lifetime of the engine while improving the heating and cooling performance of the radiator.

The product can be used in all cooling water circuits of petrol and diesel engines or industrial equipment. To use, add the product to the coolant – 300ml should be sufficient to treat cooling systems of four to eight litres capacity.

Once you have added the product, start the engine and open the heating valve, running the engine for 10 to 15 minutes before draining the system completely and flushing with fresh water. Then, refill the system with coolant in line with manufacturer’s instructions. As a final step, Bluechem recommends adding powemaxx Radiator Conditioner.

These cooling system cleaners can be used on all closed water-cooled systems and is also suitable for heat exchangers and is mixable with all kinds of coolants. To use, simply add the product to the cooling system before exchanging the coolant.

300ml is sufficient to treat cooling systems of five to 10 litres in capacity. For lower or higher filling quantities, decrease or increase the product’s application amount by 50ml per 1L of coolant.

Radiator Conditioner

Then, open the heating valve and let the engine run for approximately 15 minutes at midrange

Bluechem’s powermaxx Radiator Conditioner protects against rust, corrosion and lime scale

while lubricating valves, thermostats and the water pump. It also improves the heat exchange and keeps the coolant’s PH-value stable.

Radiator conditioner is compatible with all antifreeze brands and is suitable for use in all water-cooled engines.

To use, add the product to the cooling system regularly at every advised service interval. 300ml is sufficient to treat cooling systems of four to eight litres capacity. For best results, Bluechem recommends flushing the cooling system with powermaxx Radiator Flush (K2) beforehand.

Radiator Stop Leak Bluechem’s powermaxx Radiator Stop Leak seals leaking radiators, heat converters, water pumps and flexible hoses.

The product is compatible with all antifreeze brands and is suitable for use in all water-cooled engines.

Bluechem instructs you should shake the product well before adding it to the coolant. 300ml should be sufficient to treat cooling systems of four to eight litres capacity. Once added, you should start the engine and open the heating valve before running the engine for five to 10 minutes. After successful sealing, Bluechem states you should check the coolant level.

The bluechemGROUP explains it is a group of companies with global activities and partners in more than 120 countries. As an umbrella brand, it contains a wide range of chemical products for cleaning, care and maintenance in the automotive and industrial sector. It says its success is based upon the development and patenting of consumption-oriented and environmentally friendly products of the highest quality expanded by modern workshop, industry and service concepts.

For more from Bluechem, visit www.bluechemaustralia.com.au

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PENRITE COOLANTS Penrite says its name has been synonymous with quality products since 1926 As leaders in the field, Penrite says it offers the most comprehensive and complete range of engine coolants on the market today.

“Penrite offers exclusive technology, OEM approved coolants for most applications. We provide the same product as used by leading OEMs at the factory fill stage for new vehicles,” Penrite General Manager Sales and Marketing, Toby Dymond, said.

“Penrite can offer warranty, quality assurance and peace of mind for trade and retail users of our coolants. Penrite coolants offer the latest technology and highest quality that provides our customers with a maximum value for money offer.”

Coolants are not just a coloured water inside the radiator, as they play a vital role in controlling the temperature of an engine in a wide range of climatic conditions. Most new vehicles are filled with an Ant-Freeze Anti Boil solution containing glycols and inhibitors that raise the boiling point, lower the freezing point and prevent internal corrosion of the engine and cooling system components. These fluids maintain a steady temperature whilst dissipating heat from the engine.

For an initial factory fill in a new vehicle, coolant concentration is generally around the 50 percent level. Penrite says its OEM approved pre-mixed coolants were the first coolants in the aftermarket to be mixed at this concentration ratio. It states this allows them to match the concentration of the original OEM product and therefore make the ideal product to top up a system or to use to replace the original product when servicing is required.

Penrite’s OEM approved Seven Year Green, Seven Year Blue and Eight Year Red coolants are available in both concentrate and premix form in a variety of sizes from 1 Litre to 1000 Litre including in the new Penrite “Envirobox” 20 Litre packaging which Penrite says reduces land fill by as much as 85 percent. Penrite also manufactures a range of Type “B” coolants (Inhibitor Only) that are suitable for many applications where an Anti Freeze Anti Boil type coolant is not required such as in road competition and in older vehicles.

Penrite 10 Tenths Racing Coolant is race proven, being the coolant used in the Penrite Erebus V8 Supercar that won the Bathurst 1000. It provides superior heat transfer to lower running temperatures and long-lasting corrosion protection. Penrite also have a Classic Car Coolant that is undyed to prevent engine and coolant system staining in older and more fragile machines.

Also on offer from Penrite are servicing aids such as Radiator Flush, to clean the cooling system as well as neutralise old coolants and inhibitors; and Coolant Test Strips to test the concentration, alkalinity and pH levels of a vehicles coolant.

Penrite says the Product Selector located on its web page should be used to find the correct product for your application. It notes the Penrite ‘Product Selector’ app can also be downloaded to your smartphone from Google Play for Android and the Apple Store for IOS. For more information, visit www.penriteoil.com or www.penriteoil.com.au/applications/car-4wd/coolants or call 1300 736 748.

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TAKING A LOOK AT ENGINE COOLING In this article, Davies Craig takes us through the importance of engine cooling There have been many articles and countless discussions relating to internal combustion engines and how to keep them at a desired operating temperature, says Davies Craig.

In simple terms, horsepower generates heat which must be removed as quickly and efficiently as possible to ensure the engine does not overheat.

There are various aspects of an engine that should be examined when it needs to be kept cool. The radiator, the fan, the water pump and to lesser considered cooling accessories, an engine and/or transmission oil cooler.

Most original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) will advise the optimum engine temperatures will range from 90°C (195°F) to 105°C (220°F). Most temperature gauges don't accurately show temperatures, only markings for cold and hot on the edges and a normal range in the middle.

Cooling is essential as high temperatures damage and/or shorten the life of engine components and lubricants.

Firstly, Davies Craig suggests we discuss the radiator: brass, copper or aluminium – most car enthusiasts and weekend mechanics have heard this debate, it says.

“Arguments for either side range from heat transfer properties to price. In short, the OEM radiator should be sufficient as long as it is in good condition. We recommend you make sure it has been pressure-tested, is clean internally and externally,” Davies Craig Sales and Marketing Manager, John Benson, said.

“The coolant that goes into a radiator and subsequently the engine is also vital. Walk into any automotive aftermarket store and there will be rows of engine coolants staring you in the face, even waterless varieties. These products have anti-boil/anti-freeze, rust inhibitor qualities and are designed to perform in very cold and extremely hot climatic conditions.”

Ratios can vary and a 50/50 mix with distilled

water is considered an acceptable mixture, says Davies Craig, which recommends you select a coolant which meets the OEMs recommendations while noting it is not recommended that coolants be mixed. It is advised that you flush out the cooling system at regular intervals.

Secondly, Davies Craig points to engine fans, noting that it is a commonly accepted practice that an electric Thermatic Fan be installed to carry out the very important function of driving an acceptable volume of air through the radiator.

“All IC engines have an optimum operating temperature and controlled air flow through the radiator during idling and slow travel speeds is one of the major factors to keeping an engine operating at a desired temperature,” John said.

“Controlled temperatures are also vital as higher engine temperatures shorten the life of components and break down engine lubricants.

This becomes even more important in hotter climatic conditions. IC engines burn fuel hotter than the melting temperature of engine materials.

Adequate engine cooling removes heat energy fast enough to keep temperatures manageable to preserve engine life.”

Davies Craig recalls the simple mantra: ‘one can never have too much air being drawn or pushed through a radiator’ and so advises you fill the core of the radiator with the largest fan or fans as is physically possible.

“Davies Craig has been manufacturing electric Thermatic engine Fans for the past 48 years and you can quickly access its range by clicking onto www.daviescraig.com.au,” John said.

Thirdly, another vital element to the engine cooling process is the water pump.

Most modern engines have a mechanical coolant circulation pump. Early engines relied on thermosyphon cooling alone, where hot coolant left the top of the engine block and passed to the radiator, where it was cooled before returning to the bottom of the engine. Circulation was powered by convection alone.

Moving forward five plus decades and today’s basic mechanical water pump is not very sophisticated: a light metal impellor swirls around inside a belt-driven water pump cavity while its speed and subsequent coolant flow is determined by engine revs.

Davies Craig says one often sees buckets of money invested in the development of increasing engine horsepower and not a great deal of attention paid to another important part of the engine, the water pump.

Further, supercharging or turbocharging engines is becoming a very desirable method of increasing engine horsepower.

“Intercoolers are a usual requirement in these circumstances and electric booster pumps are usually installed to offer increased coolant circulation to assist with the overall engine cooling process. Electric vehicles too need to have their systems kept cool and the use of an electric booster pump is paramount,” John said.

Davies Craig says OEMs have paid limited attention to this aspect of the engine while other companies such as itself have dedicated significant resources over the past 20 years to produce a number of remote-mounted, lightweight Electric Water Pumps to suit a wide variety of engines.

Davies Craig states it has also sourced a number of brushless Electric Booster Pumps that suit both IC engines and electric vehicle cooling systems.

“Electric water pumps are the most productive way of eliminating parasitic power loss released when an iron-age mechanical water pump is replaced by electric water pump. Offering a more consistent coolant flow through an engine totally independent of the engine’s revs is not only efficient but vital if the engine temperature is to be managed in a more proficient manner,” John said.

“The Davies Craig patented LCD EWP/Fan Digital Controller will manage coolant flow commensurate with engine temperature and control the electric fan. Some OEMs have adopted electric water pump technology in some of their latest models.”

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

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DAYCO COOLING COMPONENTS Dayco has a range of engine cooling components ready for you Thermostats A thermostat that has failed in the open position can cause car heaters not to work for an extended period of time during the winter months. If it fails in the closed position, it will surely cause engine overheating which can lead to costly repairs or at worst, complete engine failure.

Dayco says its thermostats are designed to OEM specifications and are manufactured with a heat sensing wax filled copper power pill that detects the coolant temperature in the engine.

The Dayco heat sensing power pill controls coolant flow from the radiator when the engine is cold to reach optimum operating temperature quickly. It then allows coolant to circulate throughout the

engine when the operating temperature is reached to create the perfect temperature controlled engine environment.

Coolant Expansion Tanks Dayco’s Coolant Expansion Tanks are manufactured to exacting OE specifications and are used to recover the coolant that escapes the cooling system past the pressure cap due to rising pressure and temperature. In a properly operating cooling system, the coolant will then be siphoned back into the radiator as the temperature drops.

Heater Tap Control Valves The purpose of the Heater Control Valve is to regulate the flow of coolant to the heater core. In the off position, the heater valve blocks coolant flow to the heater core when no heating is required. When heating is required, the reverse takes place.

The heater valve can be activated by vacuum control in late model vehicles and by cable in earlier models. Common failures include leakage, blocking and because most late model valves are made of polymer, cracking when removing heater hoses. Dayco says it has released a vast, premium quality aftermarket range of heater tap control

valves to cover local and imported makes and models.

Fan Clutches Dayco Fan Clutches are made from die-cast aluminium and have a machined body that helps to provide for a tight fit within close tolerances, while producing precision performance, says Dayco.

Deep fins increase the surface area for improved heat dissipation, while exclusive drive spines are knurled and burnished. The shaft surface resists slippage caused by heavy torque loads and assures longer bearing life.

Premium quality bearings fitted to all Dayco fan clutches ensure longer life and quieter, smoother running. A special silicone fluid inhibits heat build-up to prolong service life. A bi-metal thermostatic spring adjusts the fan speed in response to operating temperature requirements, thereby reducing fuel consumption.

To find out more, contact your Dayco distributor or visit www.dayco.com.au

AUSGARAGE RETAINS PWR AS PREFERRED CONTENT PRODUCER The partnership between the two organisations will continue for 2018/2019 AusGarage, an Australian leader in automotive content and digital marketing, has announced that PWR has confirmed engagement of AusGarage once again for a further 12-months of bespoke content production.

PWR, a leading provider of cooling solutions for race categories around the world; including Formula One, NASCAR and World Rally Championship as well as the automotive aftermarket in Australia and the USA, reportedly expressed their satisfaction with content created

by AusGarage in financial year 2017/2018; saying it was only natural they continue the relationship.

PWR engaged AusGarage in 2017 to create a series of video deliverables to further engage and educate their customers and prospective consumers.

It was noted at the time that while they have a well-recognised brand and people know they are the best at what they do, it was one of the best kept secrets.

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product, however as a brand, it was identified they needed to better engage with their potential consumer-base; communicating their message, product range and expertise in performance cooling.

So far, AusGarage have created several high-end and high performing content deliverables, facilitating and coordinating cooperative content production opportunities with Bitten Motorsport, Rides by Kam and Power Torque Engines.

To date, videos have been viewed more than 250,000 times collectively.

This year AusGarage and PWR, collaboratively, intend to create several more content pieces that display not only PWR’s product range and expertise, but also the practical application of their range of cooling products, both on and off the track.

“We love working with the team at PWR. They are world leaders in their industry with a culture of innovation and a true desire to achieve perfection.

These are values that align well with our team at

AusGarage,” AusGarage Director, James Payne, said.

AusGarage says it looks forward to assisting PWR in engaging with their existing and prospective clientele while raising awareness of their advanced cooling technologies and capability to deliver bespoke cooling solutions into conventional markets, and markets of emerging technologies such as electric vehicle (EV) and battery cooling.

AusGarage says just as PWR’s technology sets it apart from its competition, AusGarage’s automotive marketing expertise sees it stand apart from its competitors. Because of this, AusGarage says it believes together, AusGarage and PWR will be a force to be reckoned with in the everchanging and ever-competitive automotive industry.

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

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RADIATOR REPAIRS Not all radiators and thermal control heat exchangers can be bought as an off the shelf part The world of radiator repairing has changed dramatically in the last 20 years, in fact the world around us in general has changed a lot in that time.

We live in a time of high availability and abundance of spare parts, of competitive pricing and a throwaway society.

In this age of disruption and rapid change, the humble radiator industry has been subjected to an enormous amount of change, says Radiator Direct which offers a combination of one-off sales of products held in stock, a parts finding service to fulfil customer requirements, as well as full container loads on a wholesale basis.

Radiator repair workshops used to be in every industrial estate, often alongside the numerous carby shops that occupied a similar amount of real estate.

Today, the radiator is usually viewed as just another part number, readily available from various sources. At an end-consumer level, and often even at the trade level, there is little consideration given to quality, durability or performance of replacement radiators.

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This has led to difficult conditions for the traditional radiator repair industry, says Radiator Direct, which notes the number of specialist radiator workshops around the country has declined dramatically as a result.

Although there is a proliferation of lower cost aftermarket radiators available, not all radiators can be replaced by an off-the-shelf option. For heavy truck, industrial, vintage and agricultural vehicles, the trusted radiator repairer is still often required, as long as you can find one with the necessary skill set to undertake the repairs.

In 2016, Radiator Direct explains it decided to go against the trend and open a repair and service division called RDâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Custom Shop.

The Custom Shop was set up to provide the market with options when an off the shelf part isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t available. The fully equipped Custom Shop services and repairs all types of radiators and thermal control heat exchangers, intercoolers, oil coolers and so on.

It also designs and manufactures custom made radiators and coolers for when there is no other supply option available.

Based in the Eastern suburbs of Melbourne, RDâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Custom Shop provides services to customers throughout Australia.

For more information, call Radiator Direct on 1300 903 715 or visit www.radiatordirect.com.au

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JUST FIVE CAN GET YOU A DRIVE WITH MOTORKOOL Would your business benefit from a 2018 Corolla Ascent with all fuel, insurance, servicing and rego paid for a full year of use next year?

That’s the prize up for grabs this Spring and Summer with Auto Parts Group’s cooling division, Motorkool.

The way to win couldn’t be simpler. Every fifth radiator purchased between the 1st of September 2018 and the 31st of March 2019 gets you a ticket in the draw to win. That is correct, enthuses Motorkool – just five radiators purchased in total this Spring and Summer, and you are in the draw.

There are no limits to the amount of tickets you can achieve. There are seven cars in total up for grabs (NT incorporated in QLD for the draw) – that

is one car to be won in each state and the ACT, so there are even more chances to win.

Of course, that’s not the only reason to choose Motorkool for your radiator and cooling supply this season, says Motorkool, which states programs such as its 1300 KOOLME Local Stockist are building momentum to make Motorkool the quickest and easiest way to get quality cooling products.

All Motorkool products come with a industry leading No Fuss Warranty for two years which it says indicates the level of confidence in the quality of the product being supplied for Australian conditions. For added peace of mind, the two years is guaranteed from date of installation.

In the rare event of a product issue, Motorkool says its No Fuss Warranty makes it easy to get your customer back on the road – all you need to do is call your local Auto Parts Group branch, tell them you have a issue with a Motorkool radiator and ask for the No Fuss option. Then, a new

replacement radiator will be organised to be sent out on the next available delivery.

Motorkool says that with “No Fuss confidence” in a wide product range, backed by Auto Parts Group’s outstanding customer service and delivery programs, choosing Motorkool this season is a great way to improve the end results for your customers. Not to mention the great chance your shop has to win an all expenses paid vehicle for a year for you and your customers use.

Terms and Conditions apply, please visit www.autopartsgroup.com.au/mkpromo for full details.

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NISSENS AC CONDENSERS Long-life corrosion protection combined with excellent thermal performance It’s often said that the compressor is the heart of the AC system, but there are some other vital organs/key components that play a major role in the effective function of automotive AC systems.

None is more vulnerable or prone to corrosion than the condenser. The condenser is one of two heat exchangers in typical automotive AC systems, the other being the evaporator which resides in relative safety buried deep under the dash.

Typically condensers are mounted at the front of the vehicle behind the grill. Like radiators, early condensers were made of durable and heavy materials such as brass. Modern condensers, again like radiators, are mostly made of thin gauge aluminium.

The role of the condenser is to release heat from the cabin which is absorbed by the refrigerant flowing through the evaporator, into the ambient air. The condenser does this by enabling the state of the refrigerant to change from a gas to a liquid – this change of state is called the condensation process.

Due to its mounting position, the condenser is a component particularly exposed to pitting (sand blasting) and corrosion, which can weaken the structural integrity and performance of the condenser.

With the fins of the condenser giving off heat from the refrigerant into the surrounding air, corroded or missing fins significantly reduce performance and effective operation of the AC system.

A leaking or non-performing condenser can lead to an excessive overload of the other AC components – mainly the compressor – exposing it to a lack of oil, potential overheating and, in extreme cases, compressor damage.

For increased protection and durability, Nissens says it has applied a highly corrosion resistant protective coating to many of its condenser models.

It states it has added this corrosion protection technology for the following reasons: • it improves protection and durability of the coated condenser over the original part; • it provides additional protection against the normal corrosion process; and • it considerably prolongs the lifespan of the condenser.

Nissens says these points have been proven and confirmed by a series of corrosion and salt spray lab tests. These corrosion protected condensers are now being fitted and are in operation in vehicles out on the roads of Australia, North America and Europe.

Radiator Direct says it is proud to represent Nissens in Australia and New Zealand and offers a large range of Nissens condensers to suit various vehicle makes and models.

The business says it is made up of a passionate team of automotive thermal control experts who provide personalised service with a high level of product and industry expertise to a diverse range

of customers, from specialist repair workshops through to some of the largest automotive parts resellers in Australasia.

Radiator Direct offer a combination of one-off sales of products held in stock, a parts finding service to fulfil customer requirements, as well as full container loads on a wholesale basis.

For more information, contact Radiator Direct on 1300 903 715 or visit www.radiatordirect.com.au

DAVIES CRAIG ELECTRIC BOOSTER PUMPS Four compact, brushless EBP Electric Booster Pumps are now available Australian automotive cooling manufacturer, Davies, Craig, now offers four compact, brushless EBP Electric Booster Pumps.

Davies Craig developed and introduced the EBP15 Electric Booster Pump over a decade ago for a number of applications and since then the high-performance brushless magnetically-driven pumps have reportedly drawn high acclaim globally for their efficiency, long life and low current draw.

The EBP may be used in a variety of applications that require flow-rates from 15L/min up to 40L/min and where a positive-head is available.

Models include: • EBP15 - Electric Booster Pump, part #9002 15 Litres per minute • EBP23 - Electric Booster Pump, part #9050 23 Litres per minute 74

• EBP25 - Electric Booster Pump, part #9005 25 Litres per minute • EBP40 - Electric Booster Pump, part #9040 37 Litres per minute (available in 24v, part #9041) Applications may include: • Karting – the EBP may be installed to enhance or replace an existing thermosiphon circulation system, mechanical water pump or complement the existing system.

• Camping/Caravan/Recreation – the EBP could be used in a variety of arrangements where water pumping is necessary: outdoor showers, sinks, toilets, taps, fish ponds, water features etc.

• Marine – the EBP may be used to complement the existing mechanical water pump on inboard motors similar to the automotive needs, increase cooling capacity and prevent

heat soak after hot engine shut down.

• Solar – the EBP may be used to circulate water through 12V solar hot water systems.

• Irrigation – the EBP may be used to pump water through irrigation and/or reticulation systems.

• Water-to-air intercoolers – recommended by a number of leading turbo/supercharger kit manufacturers.

Other applications not outlined here where liquid is required to be circulated an EBP may be suitable.

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

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AUTODATA LAUNCHES NEW BULB MODULE Autodata’s Bulbs module is designed to help technicians save time and increase workshop efficiency Autodata’s new Bulbs module is designed to give professional technicians easy access to accurate bulb replacement data to reduce the risk of damaging costly lighting units.

As well as providing a replacement guide for each type of bulb, the new module features a scale which rates the difficulty of the replacement procedure.

This new feature helps technicians to quickly assess the complexity of the job, allowing them to accurately provide quotes and to avoid underestimation of tasks.

As with many aspects of modern vehicles, lighting is becoming more complex. Many drivers and technicians wrongly assume that bulb replacements are always straightforward.

However, with LED headlamps increasing in popularity, and with even more powerful and efficient laser headlamps already appearing on vehicles such as the BMW i8, bulb replacements today and in the future will require more guidance

to safely access and replace high-tech lighting systems.

Alongside 34 other technical modules, such as Service Schedules, Technical Specifications, Repair Times, Engine Oil, Diagnostic Trouble Codes, Wiring Diagrams, and Fuses and Relays; Autodata’s Bulbs module is designed to help technicians save time and increase workshop efficiency.

Autodata’s online workshop application provides OE-manufacturer verified technical information for 96 percent of vehicles on the road.

Subscribers have instant access to in-depth and standardised technical data for over 43,500 car, light commercial vehicle models and motorcycles from more than 173 manufacturers.

For more information on Autodata’s new bulb replacement module, or to try it today, visit www.autodata-group.com

BATTERY CHARGE AND SUPPORT SOLUTION Those behind the CTEK PRO120 say it is the tool of choice for Australia’s workshops Servicing modern vehicles is a highly demanding, customer-centric business with no room for error.

Vehicles arriving in Australian workshops are increasingly equipped with various multiple computer systems controlling everything from automatic brakes, keyless entry, infotainment and HVAC. These systems often need to be updated with the latest software when the car comes in for service, which requires the ignition to be on for up to 24 hours, without the motor running and operating solely from the power of the battery.

To ensure a vehicle’s battery is at full charge by the end of service, and to avoid battery run-down when the computer systems are being updated, it is critical the workshop has an intelligent, powerful and easy-to-use battery charge and support solution they can rely on.

CTEK says its PRO120 is the best tool to aid the modern workshop. With advanced design, technology and superior features, it states it is the ultimate choice for comprehensive professional battery charging, care and support in today’s advanced diagnostic workshop.

CTEK says customer feedback has been positive, including this statement from a technician at a Brisbane-based dealership: “the CTEK PRO120 delivers the power supply we need to do our job effectively and efficiently. It’s an all-in-one solution, coupling power supply needs with essential battery support to avoid battery failure or computer system damage. We found the PRO120 really easy to use – the menu is self explanatory and it truly was set and forget using the automated adaptive charging mode. We could trust that the battery’s safety was supported through the PRO120’s maintenance of a constant, stable voltage.”

“As vehicle technology continues to advance,

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we’ve been listening to the feedback of our customers and continue to develop our product range to meet their needs - particularly recognising the importance of supporting the battery during increasingly extensive diagnostic and flash programming work,” CTEK Director of Sales and Marketing, Asia Pacific, Robert Briggs, said.

“The PRO120 protects against battery failure, addressing a significant area of concern among automotive technicians as customer battery failures in the workshop significantly hampers brand reputation. We’re seeing a really positive reception to the product in market, with great feedback from Australia’s workshops.”

The PRO120 is available in Australia via the Ashdown-Ingram network.

For more information, visit www.ashdown-ingram.com.au

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HPPLUNDS PARTNERS WITH FORMULA ONE The company has announced a new Australian distribution partnership for the car care range from the USA In 2014, HPPLunds announced the new distribution partnership of the iconic USA brand, JB Weld (World’s Strongest Bond) for Australia.

Now, HPPLunds says it is proud to announce another USA icon brand distribution partnership for Australia – the car care range of Formula One.

Since that announcement, HPPLunds says JB Weld sales in Australia have grown at a rapid rate and the brand is now available from most automotive outlets.

HPPLunds says the success of Formula One can be broken down to three areas.

“First off is Formula One’s brand recognition. The phrase ‘formula one’ is obviously synonymous with high performance in the auto racing world and it also has parallels with wealth, technology and celebrity. The brand reflects this and it tries to remain in close association with the racing circuit,” HPPLunds General Manager, Lee Haywood, said.

“Then there is its ‘Carnauba Quality’ – a fundamental aspect to the brand which puts this key ingredient first and is always sure to source the highest quality Carnauba available.

“Finally is value. Formula One prides itself on quality at a competitive price.

“We spent several months researching and quality testing Formula One products and found the

results were excellent, with all products exceeding the expectations of quality and performance.

“The pricing of Formula One is very competitive and will allow stockists of this range excellent margins. In a tough market this is extremely important.”

The Formula One product offering covers Carnauba Waxes, Car Wash and Wax in various sizes and quality levels, as well as protectants and cleaners for all parts of the vehicle with fifty part numbers in the range.

HPPLunds encourages you to ask for a copy of the Formula One catalogue today and to consider becoming a stockist to enjoy exceptional margins on a high quality product range.

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

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FORD RANGER AUXILIARY BATTERY TRAY SOLUTIONS Piranha’s auxiliary battery trays are manufactured from high quality steel and electroplated for durability Piranha Off Road has announced its latest auxiliary battery tray options for the Ford Ranger up to the 2018 models - but wait there’s more, says the company.

Piranha states it has specialised in manufacturing vehicle specific auxiliary battery trays and the latest tray to suit the Ford Ranger is “amazing”, taking the range of trays that suit Ford and Mazda to three main kits.

Piranha’s first auxiliary tray kit suits the Ford Ranger and the Mazda BT50 range and is an intub tray that suits a105 amp hour battery. The advantages of this tray is that it’s easy to fit, easy to access and can work in-conjunction with a drawer system. This tray kit retails for $265 including GST and should be fitted by an authorised Piranha installer as it requires cutting the tray’s plastic tub to fit correctly, says Piranha Off Road.

The second auxiliary tray kit that also suits both Ranger and BT-50 is an under body tray with a 75 amp hour battery. This kit allows for the full use of the tray and is well hidden under the body

although not as easy to access. This tray retails for $265 and while it can be a self-fit, mechanical work is required to fit a fuel by-pass kit for the later BT-50. This should be done by an authorised installer, cautions Piranha Off Road.

The latest auxiliary tray kit suits Ford Ranger only and bolts into the cabin against the rear wall, so an in-cabin mounted tray with either a 100 or a 150 amp hour battery. This tray retails for $365 including GST and is recommended to be fitted by an authorised dealer. This is a big job to install however it frees up the whole tub and it can be accessed very easily, says Piranha Off Road.

Piranha says its auxiliary battery trays are manufactured from high quality steel and electroplated for durability in our Aussie bush and harsh off-road conditions. Each tray is designed

by Piranha to be model specific and comes complete with all fitting hardware and detailed fitting instructions.

Piranha cover the trays with a two-year, Australiawide, unlimited kilometre warranty with self-fit kits while any kit fitted by an authorised dealer is

covered under a five-year warranty. Some conditions apply, however Piranha says it shows it backs up its products extremely well.

To find out more information on the range of battery and auxiliary trays and battery management systems available, contact the team at Piranha Off Road Products on 03 9762 1200 or visit www.piranhaoffroad.com.au

NEW RANGE AT AUTO ONE Hot Wheels Car Care Products come to 64 Auto One stores nationwide Auto One is now stocking Australia’s newest car care product range, Hot Wheels Car Care Products.

Hot Wheels Car Care Products launched the partnership ahead of the recent Coates Hire Ipswich SuperSprint Supercars event with an autograph session at Auto One’s Browns Plains outlet. The special event featured James Courtney and Scott Pye who drive for the Hot Wheels Car Care-backed Walkinshaw Andretti United Supercars team.

Sixty-four Auto One stores nationwide will have the product in-store while Hot Wheels Car Care Products will also be featured in Auto One’s national Winter catalogue.

Hot Wheels Car Care Epic Shine is the signature product of the range and delivers a fast, easy spray on, buff off Epic Shine. It is designed for use after Hot Wheels Car Care Products Wash and Wax and to maintain a streak-less shine with no haze between washes. It is safe to use on vinyl wraps and all paint types.

Joining Epic Shine in the Hot Wheels Car Care Products line-up at Auto One is Wash and Wax, Pro 78

Glass Cleaner, All Wheel Cleaner, Pro Tyre Cleaner, Pro Tyre Finish and Pro Trim Rejuvenator.

Hot Wheels Car Care Products’ formula is environmentally friendly, the products are PH neutral, hydrocarbon free and biodegradable.

Auto One’s Managing Director, Andrew Boath welcomed Hot Wheels Car Care Products to Auto One’s nationally renowned product roster.

“Auto One has always prided itself on sourcing quality products that our customers will fall in love with and keep coming back for,” Andrew said.

“That Auto One is the first retailer to take on board Hot Wheels Car Care Products nationally is something that the big kid in all of us are thrilled about.

“The products aren’t just a gimmick though. When the team from Hot Wheels Car Care took us right

through the process and explained the environmental credentials – and quality of the products – along with the global recognition that comes with it, we had to jump on board. We have tested the products with our families and love them and know our customers will too.”

Hot Wheels Car Care Products broke cover in the Australian market in February, becoming the official car care product of the Walkinshaw Andretti United Virgin Australia Supercars team.

In further great news for customers of Auto One, Hot Wheels Car Care Products can be purchased with ZipPay - you can own now and pay later from each Auto One store.

To find which of the 64 Auto One locations stocking the new range is closest to you, visit www.autoone.com.au

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SIDE STEPS AND RAILS To suit Holden Colorado, Trailblazer, Isuzu MU-X and Toyota Landcruiser 79 Series Safeguard your vehicle from damage caused offroad, whilst providing a convenient access step into your 4x4.

Ironman 4x4 is pleased to introduce its side step and rails for the: • Holden Colorado 7 RG 2012+ • Trailblazer LT/LTZ 2017+ • Isuzu MU-X 2014+ • Toyota Landcruiser 79 Series 9/2016+ Single Cab (not compatible with 2007 8/2016 model)

Ironman 4x4 says it has undergone extensive designing and testing, to ensure the requirements of airbag compatibility have been met for these side steps and rails.

It says the all black checkerplate tread effortlessly complements the look of your vehicle, and not only allows for easy access into your 4x4, but also helps protect your vehicle’s door sill and door panels from damage caused off-road by rocks, stumps and other obstacles.

The new hybrid design also gives you the option to add a side rail to your side step at a later date.

REMOTE KING By being able to generate modern-day remotes, you could tap into a very profitable revenue stream Things change pretty quickly nowadays. Once upon a time, you could enter your car, start it and unlock the boot all with the same single metal key. Today that simple key has evolved into a state-of-the-art security system that integrates seamlessly with the vehicle. But what happens when that Fob or remote gets damaged or even lost?

Remote King says originally you would have had no option but to return to an official dealership and be charged an “excruciating” amount for a new one. Thankfully, it says, this is now no longer the case.

The business says it identified the need to enable the trade to become self- sufficient by providing a cost-effective, high quality aftermarket replacement that could be created on site. For a relatively modest capital outlay, says Remote King, your business could be equipped and trained to generate these remotes, enabling you to tap into a very profitable revenue stream.

How does it work?

Generally, a modern remote or flip key consists of four main components: • the remote transmitter and circuitry itself, which locks and unlocks the vehicle; • the transponder chip which links to the vehicle’s immobiliser and enables the car to start; • the key blade for the ignition; and • the shell or case that house these elements together.

Remote King explains it can supply the devices and equipment to cover all of these areas, so you can reproduce the replacement fob for your customer, including:

Key Features: • • • • • •

Airbag compatible Strong checkerplate tread Black powdercoated finish Steel construction Added sill protection Made from premium grade materials and components For more information, visit www.ironman4x4.com

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• The KD900 for the remote reproduction or reprogramming covers a vast range of vehicles. The KD900 can be used in conjunction with a laptop or on its own as a standalone unit with its own screen. This is ideal for offering a mobile service.

• The original Handy Baby, an easy to use cloning and copying device for transponder chips which covers over 80 percent of vehicles. It is capable of copying, reading and writing transponders and has a built-in reading device which gathers data on ID46 and ID48.

• The Condor mini for the cutting of blades, an easy to use fully automated machine that can also produce keys just from a code should the original blade not be available to read. Neat and compact, it doesn’t take up much room in a workshop or in a van.

• The OBDSTAR - certain vehicles on the market require a more complex approach and need a different device in the form of diagnostics, explains Remote King. In this case the OBDSTAR is a convenient unit which plugs directly into the cars OBD port and as well as being able to programme keys is also capable of pulling diagnostic pins from vehicles including Holden, Mitsubishi, Chevrolet, Nissan, Hyundai, Kia and others.

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

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PRO-KIT NEW CATALOGUE The catalogue has been in development for almost a year and a half Pro-Kit says it is excited to announce that its 2018 Product Catalogue has arrived and is available now for all of its customers.

This catalogue has been nearly 18 months in the making and contains a “huge number of new and innovative products, as well as the trusted and great selling ranges currently stocked by Auto Stores all over Australia.”

Pro-Kit explains the format of this catalogue is quite different to previous prints with: • Colour-coded easy to find and choose product categories • Clearly defined product groups to easily find related products • Highly detailed information of individual products • Comprehensive name index that itemises products in nearly every name which customers may call them ensuring that no that sales are missed • High quality product images and much more.

The Pro-Kit team says it is dedicated to ensuring the right products are available to stores to maximise opportunities for higher sales and customer satisfaction.

It says this is achieved by providing excellent customer service, the right product ranges, sales support including the very successful Powerwall Program, value adding packaging designs and Store Special Catalogue Promotions to customers.

Pro-Kit’s ranges include: • General, specialised and testing tools to suit both the professional and DIY mechanic • Automotive accessories • Automotive Lighting • Tyre repair and maintenance • Towing and tie down For more information, contact 02 9820 1773 and sales@prokit.com.au 82

WHO’S HITCHING A RIDE IN YOUR CAR? They can’t be seen, but microscopic bacteria are breeding in your car interior Pollutants such as germs, bacteria, infectious disease, mould spores, mildew, viruses and pet odours ride in vehicles with passengers on a daily basis.

Cars are a breeding ground for germs and bacteria, especially in air conditioning and heating systems. When turned on, airborne bacteria and allergens can get blown straight into your face.

Studies have shown that family vehicles are one of the unhealthiest environments with an average of 506 germs per 6.5 cm2 in the center console alone. This leaves you and your family being exposed to so many different strains of bacterial viruses daily.

Auto Klene says Germinator is an environmentally friendly, water-based solution which cleans, sanitises and disinfects your car air-conditioning; removing odours, spores and microorganisms from your interior. Germinator also creates a long lasting barrier that actively protects surfaces from the build-up of organic matter including moulds, bacteria, germs and allergens.

Advancements to the Germinator bacti-bomb provide you with a high performance cleaning solution directed toward fighting in-car air and surface pollution, without the use of harmful chemicals. Germinator works as a rapid total release spray to naturally decompose all vehicle odours, while thoroughly ridding your car of these infectious bacteria strains, explains Auto Klene.

It says one treatment will help provide you a germ-free and allergen-free vehicle, with a fresh citrus fragrance giving you peace of mind and a healthier environment due to the cleaner quality of air circulating through your air-conditioning for months to come.

Typically, Germinator Antimicrobial is combined with other substituted phenolics in the manufacture of disinfectant formulations used in homes, schools, hospitals and nursing homes.

Germinator Antimicrobial formula is also used in the manufacture of formulations used for the post-harvest treatment of pears and citrus fruits.

Auto Klene says this product is uniquely effective against a wide variety of organisms, including Pseudomonas spp and Mycobacterium tuberculosis.

For more information, contact Auto Klene on 03 8761 1900 or sales@autoklene.com

SHELTER YOUR VALUABLES By fitting an awning to your vehicle, you can provide shelter from the irregular Australian weather for your whole family There's nothing quite like relaxing around a campsite in the fresh air, swimming in a lake and snuggling into a swag overnight; however, when the sun is beating down on you or the clouds open up, any respite is greatly appreciated.

The ARB Awning is made from polyester canvas with its unique 300gsm poly cotton ripstop blend.

The aluminium extrusions measuring 1.9mm thick increase stability and poles which are 1.2mm thick and up to 25mm in diameter keep your awning upright.

All encased in a 900D PVC protection bag, the ARB awning will complement any vehicle touring setup.

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

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ACCESSORIES & CAR CARE

LED AUTOLAMPS DESIGN AUSTRALIAN-FIRST Strobe/Override Rotating Multifunction Warning Beacon LED Autolamps says that in an Australian-first, it has designed a dual function strobe that becomes a rotating beacon at the flick of a switch: the 145 Series LED Beacons.

The beacons feature both strobe and rotating functions in one lamp which LED Autolamps says will save you costs on inventory and promote safer operation in the work environment.

LED Autolamps’ designers and electrical engineers were posed with a common problem within the mining industry requiring commercial vehicles to be fitted with a strobe and a rotating beacon. These would be used separately depending on the conditions at mining sites. The solution was to combine the two functions into one unit and cleverly design the LEDs and associated components to turn a Class Two strobe function into a simulated Class One rotating beacon.

The lamp has four wires, one for earth (Black), one for strobe (Red), one for rotating (Yellow) and one for Synchronisation (White). If only one function is to be used then you would connect that colour wire for the function required, either strobe or rotate. To get the full benefit of the dual

function feature simply connect all these wires to a three-way switch. The lamps electronics is set up for strobe (Red) and the rotating (Yellow) overrides the strobe function.

Another alternative wiring option is the strobe (Red) wire can be connected to the ignition switch so that the strobe function is engaged while the vehicle is running. A separate two-way switch is required for the rotating (Yellow) feature, when this switch is turned on the strobe function is disabled and the rotating function is activated.

LED Autolamps says the new 145 series easily comply with the Class One and Class Two standards, offering 12 high brightness 3-watt LEDs that deliver a powerful 360-degree omnidirectional amber light output, rotating at 2.06Hz or 130 RPM and flashing at 1.44 Hz or 90 flashes per minute.

Demanding work environments will test any lamp’s integrity. You need not worry; says LED Autolamps, which states these lamps are manufactured tough. The lens is made from heavy-duty polycarbonate plastic which is renowned for impact resistance and durability while a heavy-duty diecast aluminum base for the three bolt fixed mounting finishes off the design.

They are also fully tested to IP67 standards for dust and water ingress. An overall size of 144mm round and 91mm high, means they are perfect for most common fitting applications. Solid state LED technology with no moving parts also ensures vibration protection in the toughest of conditions.

The lamps provide a wide voltage range of 11-32

volts and a very low current draw of 0.70 amps for strobe and 0.46 amps for rotating function measured at 13.8 volts, which is very important when electrical drain on the battery is to be considered. LED Autolamps says these lamps are the perfect Class One/Class Two warning strobe beacon for road, rescue/recovery, mining industrial or where intense brightness of SAE/J845 Standards are required.

This innovative use of wire colour for function allows the operator to switch from rotate to strobe all from the safety of the vehicle’s cabin. It says all of these features are offered at an incredibly competitive price which is on par with a standard single function beacon.

Supplied in a secure retail hang/stand blister pack with a three-year warranty, LED Autolamps says the beacons are said to be brighter, tougher, and will outperform all others in their class.

The beacons are available to order now. For further information, visit www.ledautolamps.com for your local distributor or call 03 9466 7075.

SMART COOLING WITH THE DOMETIC CFX 40W Available at Dometic retailers Dometic says the CFX range has inherited all of the great features you’ve come to expect from its portable fridges.

The efficient and robust portable fridge or freezers are perfect for every application while out on the road, says Dometic, as long as you have access to 12 or 24 V DC or 100-240 V AC power (with the option of using solar power).

The CFX 40W is a 41 litre fridge or freezer and is part of the six-model CFX range that features the latest WiFi technology.

The WiFi CFX app allows you to conveniently set, control and monitor the temperatures of the fridge or freezer remotely, from your smart phone or tablet. The exterior of the CFX 40W boasts a robust lid latch and hinges, and strong factoryfitted, spring-loaded handles.

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Additional features such as the fully detachable polypropylene lid and a USB charging port add extra layers of functionality. Fitted with heavy-duty details like these, the CFX can withstand the most demanding of loads.

Storage space in the CFX 40W can be organised with the help of the included storage baskets and dairy compartment for storing perishables.

The CFX 40W fridge or freezer is also able to fit 60 cans and store a standard Riesling bottle upright, giving you the option to store a wide variety of drinks.

The genuine compressor and unique Variable motor Speed Optimisation technology helps the CFX operate quietly and efficiently, even in extreme temperatures. Simply set the temperature from anywhere between +10 °C and –22 °C and

the powerful compressor cooling technology will take care of your refrigeration or freezing needs.

Due to the extra-thick polyurethane insulation throughout the unit, the CFX 40W has excellent cooling performance and a low power draw. This combined with the tight seal created from the lid design, results in increased cooling efficiency.

To find out more about the CFX 40W or to find your closest retailer, visit dometic.com.

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FUTURE AUTO INNOVATIONS

STATE OF THE BATTERY: SOON TO BE SOLID Battery technology, however improved, has always been the critical limiting factor in the development of electric car drivelines. But as Automate’s Harrison Boudakin reports, a move beyond the traditional liquid-cell battery could be the key that unlocks the next wave of revolution in automotive engineering Serious change is never rooted in a single moment in time. Instead, it comes to us in slow waves of events and breakthroughs, which converge one after another until eventually, the status quo can simply stand no more.

And without doubt, the car industry’s stilted stagger towards the electric future bears witness to this in a grand way. For decades now, the massproduced, battery-electric car has been held before us like a sort of soon-to-be-real vision of tomorrow; but lo and behold, for all the talk and hype, the path we have taken to actually get to this future has been frustratingly long and winding.

However, there’s also no doubt that in recent years, a number of key – and unexpected – accelerants have forced the industry to work harder at turning the fiction of electric cars into some kind of feasible reality. The arrival of Elon Musk’s pioneering Tesla brand was one such catalyst; the industrial and political chaos of the Volkswagen Dieselgate scandal was another.

And now, as legislators and politicians pressure automakers to step away from their beloved internal combustion engine like never before, we are witnessing another critical accelerant loom on the horizon – and it comes to us in the form of a new breakthrough in battery technology.

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Now it is true to say that the liquid-state, lithiumion battery has absolutely been the great focal point of scientific and economic investment in recent electric car development. And yes, this R&D has produced some genuine advancements in the capabilities of lithium-ion technology, with the best electric cars now offering more than 500km of driving range, and the potential for relatively fast charging. But however improved these batteries are, liquid cell lithiumion remains a deeply compromised and problematic technology, particularly in the context of road car design.

At the heart of the matter is the challenging relationship between energy density and cell safety.

In much the same way as phone manufacturers are constantly looking to develop smaller batteries with greater levels of power, automakers are also desperate to squeeze as much energy into as small a battery cell as possible. But the challenge is that increasing the energy density of a cell also makes it proportionally less safe. Liquid cells, as we know from the case of the exploding Samsung Galaxy phones, are extremely volatile when they malfunction, particularly when the malfunctions are caused by engineers pushing the limits of energy density too far.

Put simply, the problem with lithium-ion batteries is that they contain liquid - because as we know from chemistry, liquids almost always promote more unstable cell behaviour and are very vulnerable to thermal runaway situations.

As much has been apparent in a number of high profile accidents involving Tesla cars, where the impact of a collision has led to electrical fires, which have subsequently burned for hours at incredibly high temperatures. As a result, manufacturers have had to be extremely careful in the way they package their cells in the chassis, adding heavy layers of protection to prevent the batteries from being punctured.

But even with protection, it’s clear that engineers are rapidly approaching the limits of liquid lithium-ion technology. So to make batteries that are lighter, smaller and more powerful - the Holy Trinity in automotive terms - manufacturers are now hedging their bets on something a little more… solid.

Yes, without a doubt, solid state batteries will be the key that unlocks the next - and very important - stage of the electric revolution.

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While no manufacturer has actually put a solidstate cell into mass production yet, many automakers are now talking openly about their investments in the technology.

At the Frankfurt Motor Show last year, Porsche made it clear that their next generation of 911 and Boxster models will feature some sort of electrification – and they believe only a solid-state battery design can offer them the kind of performance, light weight and durability that Porsche owners expect.

Meanwhile, industry giant Toyota is also throwing their considerable weight behind the technology, stating that a solid-state battery design will be at the heart of their first mass-market, all-electric model, to be launched in the early 2020s.

And finally last December, BMW announced a partnership with a Colorado-based firm, Solid Power, to boost their competency in the field.

Solid Power, with its links to the University of Colorado, already has facilities working on smallscale cell research, and BMW predicts that production-ready versions of the batteries will hit the market around 2025.

That coincides with research from prominent analysts suggesting that the cost of mass manufacturing solid-state batteries will likely reach parity with internal combustion engines by the mid-2020s. In other words, in dollar terms, that means the price of producing one kilowatt hour of electricity falling to around $100 – down from the $200 per kilowatt rate of the present day.

So if it’s true that this technology is relatively imminent, it’s probably worth exploring a little bit of the science behind the solid-state revolution.

Put simply, using a solid-state cell allows engineers to unlock a lithium-metal anode; and in terms of how much charge it can store per unit of mass and volume, lithium-metal is about as good as it gets.

That means far lighter batteries with far higher levels of energy density. Unlike conventional lithium-ion designs, solid state cells also don’t need to be stacked or ‘layered’ closely together and then linked via electrical connectors. This gives engineers far more flexibility when laying out the batteries within the chassis, ultimately

liberating more space for passengers and giving designers more freedom to innovate around the aesthetics of their future models.

But the real clincher is the safety factor. With a solid-state battery, the chemical reaction that would traditionally cause a short-circuit in a conventional lithium-ion design in this case also produces an inert electrolyte, which just so happens to deny the fuel that would stoke a fire.

So what you end up with is an incredibly stable cell, giving engineers licence to increase the energy density without compromising safety.

That’s what’s attracting the world’s automakers to the technology: it promises to deliver a massive boost in range and power, while at the same time helping to put a lid on the current scourge of EV batteries, which is weight.

Still, challenges remain. Engineers continue to work on ensuring the lifespan of the cells is long enough to meet the demands of mainstream automotive design. As yet, no one appears to have mastered how to produce a cell that will last 200,000km or more – a critical stumbling block.

For the record, none of the companies currently working on the technology have disclosed their targets for the lifespan of solid-state batteries, but Toyota’s Chairman – the man dubbed “the father of the Prius” for his work on that revolution vehicle 20 years ago – says no one would dare launch a car with a battery life that isn’t absolutely acceptable to the market.

Clearing that hurdle will leave the automotive industry on the precipice of a significant revolution in drivetrain technology. More than ever before, we are entering an epoch where automakers are squeezed between the idealistic demands of politicians and the pragmatism of the buying public. And as a piece of engineering that seemingly offers a viable solution to this challenging remit, the solid-state battery does appear to be the industry’s best and brightest hope.

Written by Harrison Boudakin for AutoMate Training, an industry leading provider of online, on-demand digital training.

Visit www.automatetraining.com for a free 14-day trial.

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TRADE TALK

AASDN WA MEMBERS UNITE FOR THE GREATER GOOD Chris Notte is the Chairman of the Australian Automotive Service Dealer Network WA (AASDN WA); a group of quality, independent automotive workshops building new business relationships, generating business opportunities, exchanging knowledge and expertise, and leveraging buying power As Chairman of AASDN WA, Chris Notte understands the benefits that networking, shared experience and camaraderie can deliver to independent business operators.

Born and raised in the Swan Valley region of Western Australia, Chris has always stayed close to home.

“I have never lived more than a few kilometres away from my parent’s first house,” Chris said.

“It is a great place to live; we have many awesome food and drink venues in the area.”

Chris, who is also the Managing Director of AutoplusWA, knew from an early age that he was destined to be a business operator, though he had a couple of false starts as a child.

“I remember starting a veggie garden with my cousin and then selling the produce, before I moved on to trying to sell mice. Let’s just say breeding the mice was easy, selling them was not!” he explained.

“I also helped at the family fuel station on holidays.”

Around this time Chris also developed a passion for motor vehicles.

“My uncle Neil always loved cars and we made buggies and paddock cars to drive around the property. From making, painting and breaking them, I quickly got hooked on cars and started reading and learning all I could about how engines and cars worked long before I started an apprenticeship at 14,” he said.

His first ‘real’ job was as an apprentice mechanic at a workshop owned by his parents and uncle.

“I was lucky enough to be trained by my uncle, who had left the army, started a mature age apprenticeship and won apprentice of the year,” Chris stated.

“There was another mechanic working there which gave me the opportunity to learn quickly.

It all progressed from there; managing the workshop and seeing customers, running the workshop and office, and then managing the office only.”

Despite the demise of his mouse breeding business, Chris, with encouragement and support from his father, developed his entrepreneurial mindset.

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“My dad always told me I could do whatever I set my mind to, as long as I had commitment and dedication,” Chris explained.

“As I completed my apprenticeship, this got me thinking more about the business and systems side. While I loved the mechanical and electrical side of my apprenticeship, I was more interested in understanding how things could be done better in a business sense.”

Today, he runs a very successful business, employing “an awesome team of 14” people.

That’s not to say it’s been all smooth sailing; a few lessons have been learnt along the way.

“Most of them have been because it has taken too long to make a decision. Others have involved purchasing equipment and other things for the business that have had a super-low ROI and have not been worth the effort. Those lessons made it easier to decide what we needed to purchase in the future, making decisions quicker,” he said.

Describing himself as organised, quick to learn and a high achiever, Chris values attitude over skill in business.

“With the correct attitude and application, you can always upskill, but in the workplace, having skill and a bad attitude will eventually bring the rest of the team down, nullifying the gains made by the extra skill level,” he said.

Remembering the encouraging words of his father, Chris says aspiring young business people looking to enter the industry should seek out similarly supportive industry professionals.

Chris Notte “First of all, get a mentor, surround yourself with like-minded people in the industry, join an industry association and be active with in it. Then, never stop learning and don't be afraid to ask for help,” he said.

With that understanding, it’s no surprise that Chris became involved with AASDN WA. AASDN operates in two regions under the banners AASDN WA and AASDN NSW and ACT. Both have their own committee, planning structure and preferred suppliers, however the goals of providing support, training and sharing of information remain the same.

Formed in July of 2013, AASDN WA evolved from a disbanded industry group and continued with the commitment and direction of the committee and members who realised the value they could provide to the industry.

“ASSDN WA is flexible in its direction and decision-making process. We get feedback from members on what they want and can implement changes in a short amount of time. We are a not for profit organisation and everyone involved is here for the same reasons; they genuinely want to help others and be involved in their industry,” Chris said.

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“The association has grown its quality workshop membership base to 39, whilst continuing to raise the standard of training provided with increased levels of engagement from the committee and members. The training on offer now includes expert business building training such as accounting, business planning and customer service.

also offers the chance for members to bounce ideas off each other.

“One of the services AASDN WA provides is a subscription to Automate Training for all members of their workshop. This gives members the opportunity to continue to up skill in between training events. We are expanding our Technical Facebook page to include a chat program with all AASDN WA members linked for quick access to technical questions and answers.

AASDN WA has eight preferred suppliers – AHG Trade Centre, Burson Auto Parts, Capricorn, Castrol, Covs Parts, Imparts, Tyre Connect and United Automotive Solutions – and Chris says they are essential to the organisation’s successful operation.

“AASDN WA has spent the last year developing its own tool library for members’ use. The tools are kept centrally and we are setting up delivery runs with our preferred suppliers to move them around.

“Being environmentally and efficiency conscious, and to keep up with current technology, AASDN WA has also moved towards a paperless administration system. Booking into meetings will be made digitally and soon checking into events will be done the same way.”

Aside from these valuable services, membership

“AASDN events are well supported with the AGM and Christmas functions often having more than 90 percent of members attend. These events provide a great opportunity for members to network with like-minded workshops,” Chris explained.

“The progress and relationships we have made, and continue to build, with our preferred suppliers has helped AASDN WA provide the level of training and support that we need to continue to move forward,” he said.

Despite its considerable success, the organisation faces challenges into the future.

“Like any growing association, the challenge is to maintain the things that have made it great while continuing to grow. We are aware of this and are implementing systems to streamline our process going forward. As technology evolves, making sure we provide current and relevant training to benefit a workshop’s bottom line is, and will always be, a

challenge. Feedback from our members is important to us; it’s how we make sure they are getting the best value possible.”

Chris has also identified several future goals.

“Increasing our membership with like-minded workshops and maintaining and building our relationships with preferred suppliers, will give us the opportunity to further raise our standard of training,” Chris said.

“This means more high-profile trainers doing events for AASDN WA members exclusively. We will continue to expand the tool library, eradicating the need for our members to hold a huge amount of tools they may only use once a year.

“We will also continue with events that give our members and their families a chance to interact, unwind and share tales with like-minded people.”

Having a good appreciation of the benefits of belonging to an industry association, Chris also speaks highly of AAAA. “AAAA provides a huge list of member benefits that are real value for money. For example, being able to have contact with a lawyer who knows the industry, is priceless,” he said.

“The AAAA also has a clear direction and path on its policies and strategies going forward that align with AASDN WA. Membership to AAAA is included within AASDN WA membership and we highly recommend it to anyone who is not a member.”

Though running two busy organisations is clearly demanding, Chris is fortunate to enjoy the support of a loving family.

“We have a family of four. My wife Sarah and I have been married for 10 years and we have two girls Ariela, (aged six) and Sienna (aged four). My girls mean the world to me and are at the age where they are always making us laugh! Sarah supports me in everything I do and has a lot on her plate being a mum, wife and our bookkeeper; I thank her for her continual support,” he said.

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FROM THE FIELD TO THE WORKSHOP, A CAREER IN THE MAKING Future Auto Service Yeronga/Rocklea is working with the Brisbane Lions to set up its players for a successful career after footy in a unique arrangement which is yielding great results for all involved Future Auto Service Yeronga/Rocklea has enjoyed a partnership with the Brisbane Lions for some years not only through providing top-notch service to a number of its personnel and players; but also through sponsorship and the personal club involvement of workshop owner, Craig Williams.

When Brisbane Lions defender Jack Frost said he wanted to pursue a career in the mechanical industry following his time on the field, Craig signed him up to his workshop and gave him the tools to make important in-roads to his ‘life after football’ while also providing important balance to Jack’s intense life as an elite sportsperson.

“We have sponsored the Yeronga AFL Club for several years and through fundraising events, manning BBQs and running water on Friday nights for the Yeronga Devils we have formed many new relationships with both clients and friends,” Craig explained.

“Through this we have met some of the Brisbane Lions Players, and when player Claye Beams told us Jack loves cars and would like an adult apprenticeship we thought this could be a good opportunity.”

Apprentices are a core part of any workshop and the future of our industry, so Craig and the rest of the Future Auto Yeronga/Rocklea workshop were keen to have Jack on board.

“I have been a qualified mechanic for over 30 years and have been running my own mechanical workshop for 19 years. Over those years we have seen a decrease in availability of qualified light vehicle mechanics,” explained Craig.

“We have also struggled to find apprentices with the work ethic that being a mechanic requires. It is so important in our industry that we have staff who have personal integrity to do their work to a high standard for the safety of themselves, their colleagues and our clients. Without this it is very hard for businesses to be productive.

“It has been really great having Jack with us and having someone who is motivated and keen to learn, as well as the extra help of course!

“We would certainly be keen to continue this arrangement with other players in the future – we believe employing professional sports people is ideal as they are well-trained through their club 90

to have a high level of commitment, to be selfmotivated and to carry a high level of responsibility.

“They also have an understanding about public image and behaving professionally and have a high level of ‘teachability’ and understanding of how to be a team player – all of these are skills are highly transferrable and valuable in our industry.

“While Jack’s time with us might not qualify as a ‘formal’ apprenticeship due to the hours he is able to keep alongside his playing commitments, we feel that whatever experience and education he gets from our qualified mechanics and from working on vehicles will help him get a head start on his apprenticeship, because a light vehicle mechanic apprenticeship is competency-based, not time-based.

“Future Auto Service Centres also provide training six times a year, with our workshop being the Southside training centre, so Jack will continually be getting up-to-date information. This means that when he is ready to move on from his AFL career, he will be able to gain his qualification more quickly and be on a more substantial wage more quickly.

“I am pleased to be able to offer that to Jack, and also to play a part in providing another interest besides AFL as a change is always as good as a holiday. I think more players could benefit from arrangements like this, they can network and make new friends in the industry, and be better prepared for ‘life after football’ if a trade is of interest to them.

“For us, having a professional sportsperson as an apprentice or adult apprentice could help us with the succession plan of guaranteeing we have motivated qualified mechanics for our future, and I think it is an idea that more workshops should consider.”

For Jack, the arrangement is something he sees as very important both professionally and personally.

“I love it and I believe having a job such as this alongside my playing career is pivotal,” Jack said.

“When you first get into the AFL system it’s a

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whirlwind and you need your days off to rest and recover but once you’ve been doing it for a while and are used to the loads, like me, having something to do outside of football is vital as footy can be all consuming at times.

“For me personally I really look forward to doing something else on my days off as I can take my mind completely off footy and feel as though I am in the real world for at least a day.

“I think it would be great if more businesses would offer apprenticeships to full-time sports people and it surprises me that it hasn’t been done a lot earlier. I can almost guarantee that a large percentage of footy players across the nation would rather do a trade than go to uni.

“Everyone is different obviously, but part-time university or short courses are so accessible and accommodating for athletes but it’s impossible to complete any of a trade as mostly they only offer full time options. Even being able to knock off half

of the apprenticeship for when you finish is awesome.

“I would like to say a big thank you to Craig at Future Auto for being so accommodating and also to Claye Beams for introducing me to Craig. I would also like to mention how thankful I am of the guys working there and how patient they are with me while I continue to learn the trade, as I’m sure it would get extremely frustrating watching me do things in slow motion at times!” Jack laughed.

Jack isn’t the only one who is exceptionally pleased with the arrangement, with Brisbane Lions Head of Personal Excellence and Wellbeing, Andrew Crowell, stating the rewards are obvious.

“A number of the Brisbane Lions players and staff have utilised the services of Future Auto Service Centre Yeronga/Rocklea in the past and we have always been really happy with the service and standard of work provided,” Andrew said.

“When Jack identified Mechanics as an area he was interested in pursuing, it was only natural that we approached Future Auto Service as a possible employer.

“We have always found Future Auto Service and Craig to be very trustworthy and the flexibility they have provided to Jack along with the safe and supported environment was something that was extremely attractive.

“Now, Jack spends his days off doing something that he loves while enjoying flexibility with his working hours and learning an enormous amount in an industry that he is keen to transition into, following his AFL career.

“As an organisation, the Brisbane Lions place an extremely high value on our players engaging in a career pathway outside of football as it provides balance whilst they are playing AFL as well as a clear pathway for post career.

“Elite athletes are generally equipped with a number of transferrable skills that are highly

desirable and we absolutely would love to see more businesses offering this kind of arrangement – as an industry we are focused on providing opportunities and pathways for our players and the more organisations that offer experiences and opportunities, the better.

“We have to say that Future Auto Service has been a pleasure to work with since Jack’s work experience began and we are so pleased that they are passionate about providing further opportunities in the future.

“We look forward to seeing Jack and many others wearing the Future Auto Service team colours as full-time employees following a long and successful career at the Brisbane Lions Football Club.”

Future Auto Service Yeronga/Rocklea is located at 1015 Fairfield Road, Rocklea. To contact the workshop, call 07 3848 1200 or email rocklea@futureauto.com.au

In this series of articles, Automotive Repairers Council of Australia (ARCA) convener, Mike Smith, will take a look at issues that will affect automotive repairer workshops and topics of interest to the sector including occasional profiles of mechanics and other key personnel. msmith@aaaa.com.au 91

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MORE BUYERS ARE HEADING ONLINE Intelligent Reach discusses the importance of building a successful online strategy Even the largest and most well-resourced businesses in Australia are challenged by multichannel strategy.

Intelligent Reach says it partners with businesses of all sizes to connect their products to online marketplaces like eBay and Amazon and marketing channels like Google Shopping and Facebook remarketing.

It reports it finds that the top considerations when moving an offline business online focus on risks like channel conflict, price management and brand image and committing time and careful consideration to mitigate these risks.

If risks are mitigated, the next challenge becomes execution. Many businesses at this point invest in new talent, change-management and systems to build out new capabilities.

Intelligent Reach reports the following as what you need to know: • Online buyers aren’t just consumers. The

online Parts and Accessories channel serves both the consumer and professional market in Australia, with more than 50 percent of transactions online ending up in the hands of professional mechanics.

• Consumers expect their online experience to be comparable to offline and are turning to online marketplaces like eBay and Google to research and find spare parts and deals 24/7.

A facilitator of this change is eBay, having invested heavily in fitment based search; allowing buyers to find the exact parts for their vehicle quickly. With this vertical parts counter experience, eBay is bridging the offline/online gap.

• The online Parts and Accessories segment is changing fast; sales surged last year, with growth of 11.5 percent. Buyer behaviour is also changing, with Google reporting that more than 50 percent of Parts and Accessories search traffic is now coming from mobiles, and

more than 60 percent of transactions on eBay via their shopping app. In 2018, Australians will have spent well over one billion on Parts and Accessories online.

It can all be non-intuitive; the lines between online and offline activities are blurring. Being offline will have more of a material impact on traditional businesses in 2018 and beyond.

Discounting the opportunity cost attached to the growth of online sales for resellers and brands is one thing, however more buyers are using Google and eBay as a source of truth when shopping offline than ever before.

Digital transformation is a fresh set of challenges for business leaders, says Intelligent Reach, stating that the question becomes: where do I start when I’m new to eCommerce?

Its advice for business leaders: an organisation with a clear objective on where they want to go has the best chance of success. A good strategy starts with a quantifiable vision with tools, resources and a risk plan that aligns.

For more information, contact Intelligent Reach on 03 9079 9179.

FILTERS PLUS TALKS INVENTORY Jiwa Financial interviews Filters Plus about its use of its inventory management product For any small but growing business, there comes a time when at least one of the software systems that keep operations running smoothly and efficiently is no longer up to the task.

And so it was with Filters Plus, a Perth-based distributor of air, fuel and oil filters and related products.

In 2016, Filters Plus owner, Brendon Robinson, reports he decided that his company’s financial management system had to be replaced.

“There was a set criteria that our new solution had to meet, and Jiwa stood out amongst the others for its feature-richness, affordability and ease-ofuse”, Brendon said.

“Inventory control is a big thing for us, and Jiwa allows us to do a lot that we couldn’t do before.

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“For example, we used to shut down operations to do a stocktake, whereas now we can do rolling stocktakes whenever we want to.

“With the press of a button, we can produce a stocktake report and know that the information that comes out is timely, accurate and comprehensive.”

Jiwa says a distribution company runs best when its inventory is always where it’s supposed to be, and can be seen to be where it’s supposed to be – it says this is a task it achieves with the help of its multi warehouse toolset.

The efficient management of backorders can be a challenge for a distribution business also.

“But now it’s very simple – we log these orders in with the press of a button and when the products come in, I email the sales people to tell them the orders are past due and it’s time to get them out.”

“Prior to Jiwa our backordering processes were clunky, to say the least,” Brendon said.

For an obligation-free demonstration, please contact David Fisk on 0452 215 492 or aaaa@jiwa.com.au

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HR

UNFAIR DISMISSAL, GENERAL PROTECTIONS AND UNLAWFUL TERMINATION There are a number of claims an employee can bring following their dismissal Those actions include unfair dismissal, general protections and unlawful termination. There are also claims an employee can bring which are indirectly associated with dismissal, including underpayment, breach of contract, and discrimination.

In some instances, an employee can bring a claim during their employment and/or prior to their dismissal. This article will focus on three common employee claims, which are unfair dismissal, general protections and unlawful termination.

Employer Assist actively encourages AAAA members to understand their rights and obligations when it comes to dismissing an employee. This article will outline and clarify the main differences between the various claims an employee could lodge under the FWA.

What is unfair dismissal?

Unfair Dismissal can arise where an employee’s employment is dismissed in a way which is ‘harsh, unjust or unreasonable.’

The FWA outlines the relevant considerations that the Commission considers when determining whether dismissal was ‘harsh, unjust or unreasonable’, including: • Whether there was a valid reason for the dismissal related to the employee’s capacity or conduct; • Whether the employee was notified of that reason; • Whether the employee was given an opportunity to respond; • Any unreasonable refusal by the employer to allow the employee to have a support person present to assist at any discussions relating to the dismissal;

• Whether the dismissal related to unsatisfactory performance by the employee; • Whether the employee has been warned about that unsatisfactory performance before the dismissal; • The degree to which the size of the employer’s business would be likely to impact on the procedures following in effecting the dismissal; • The degree to which the absence of dedicated HR personnel would be likely to impact on the procedures followed in effecting the dismissal; and • Any other matters that the Commission considers relevant.

What are general protections?

An employee may bring a claim for general protections where an employer takes adverse action against the employee because they have exercised or seek to exercise a ‘workplace right.’

A common misconception is that adverse action means dismissal. However, it may also include discrimination or the alteration of an employee’s position.

It is important to note that adverse action can be taken even where there is no dismissal. In addition, a person has a ‘workplace’ right where: • they are entitled to the benefit of, or have a role or responsibility under, a workplace law, workplace instrument, or order made by an industrial body; • they are able to initiate, or participate in, a process or proceedings under a workplace law or workplace action; or • they are able to make a complaint or inquiry (to a relevant body).

For example, an employee who has their employment dismissed because they exercised a workplace right (for example, taking personal leave or annual leave) would be able to make a claim for general protections. If an employee is entitled to commence both an unfair dismissal and/or general protections claim, they will not be able to commence both and can only choose one.

What is unlawful termination?

Unlawful termination arises where an employer dismisses an employee’s employment unlawfully.

This can arise where the employee is dismissed following a temporary absence from work because of illness or injury, where they have a trade union

membership, or where they are discriminated on the basis of race, colour, sex, sexual orientation, age, physical or mental disability, marital status, family or carer’s responsibilities, pregnancy, religion, political opinion, national extraction or social origin.

It is important to consider that there is an overlap between general protections and unlawful termination. Further to the example above, an employee who has their employment dismissed following a temporary absence where they used personal or annual leave would be entitled to consider both a general protections and/or unlawful termination claim.

However, under the FWA, general protections are only available to employees who work for National System Employers (NSEs), whereas unlawful termination is available to employees who work for any employer. Also, if an employee is entitled to bring a claim for general protections, they will not be allowed to bring a claim for unlawful termination.

Most (if not all) AAAA members are NSEs and therefore where an employee is entitled to bring a general protections and unlawful termination claim, they will commence the general protections claim.

Need Assistance?

Employer Assist provides advice on all issues relating to unfair dismissal, general protections and unlawful termination, and can assist you with navigating your rights and obligations as an employer.

Please contact Employer Assist on 1300 735 306 or aaaa@employerassist.com.au if you require any assistance.

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CONSUMER LAW

PROTECTING YOUR INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY AND CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION FROM FORMER EMPLOYEES With the evolution of technology, it is increasingly common to see former employees attempt to steal intellectual property and confidential information This may occur where the former employee was privy to trade secrets or sensitive and exclusive information due to the nature of their role.

Equipped with this information, it can be for their own personal benefit or for that of a new employer.

There are some important steps which can be taken to ensure that this doesn’t occur to your business.

What is intellectual property?

Intellectual property (‘IP’) includes intangible rights such as copyright, trademarks, brands, designs, patents, circuit layouts, business and domain names, inventions and confidential information.

It is often referred to as the ‘creations of the mind’. Any intellectual property held by the employer will not be owned by the employee.

Most contracts of employment contain a clause allowing the employer to own the rights to any designs or inventions made by the employee (as long as they are made during the employee’s course of employment).

What is confidential information?

Confidential information (CI) means information in any form (including writing, oral, visual or electronic form or on any magnetic or optical disk or memory wherever located) confidential to the Employer.

CI also includes trade secrets (including methods, procedures, lists of customers/clients, training, presentation material, technical data and knowhow) relating to the business of the employer or any of their suppliers, clients, customers, agents, distributors, shareholders or management.

CI also includes any information of a confidential nature that the employee creates, develops, receives or obtains in connection with their employment.

What measures can be put in place to protect your IP and CI? Most importantly, employment contracts need to outline: • what is meant by IP and CI; • that the employer owns all the IP and CI referred to; and • what must occur upon termination of employment (ie. the employee must not disclose confidential information and must disclose any process, procedure, software etc. that the employee develops during their employment).

Further, a restraint of trade provision in employment contracts should be included to prevent the employee from providing services to one of the employer’s customers, suppliers or competitors during a restraint period, in a restraint area. The clauses are effective – as they prevent former employees from misusing IP and CI for their own benefit or the benefit of another business.

It is also recommended that you take proactive action by way of physical security, password protection and so on.

What can you do if you believe a former employee has infringed your IP or CI rights?

The best course of action is prevention. The following actions can prevent risk and ensure your IP and CI rights are protected:

• Take measures to safeguard CI which is of an exclusive or sensitive nature. This can be through adopting password protection for privileged electronic documents, and manually locking away physical documents and marking them with ‘confidential.’

• Ensure that your employment contracts are up to date and contain protective clauses to safeguard your CI and IP. This can be an effective measure to ensure the employee is aware of their obligations and ensure you can restrain future instances of unwarranted behaviour.

• Ensure exit-interviews take place and require employees to return all IP and CI. In addition, company equipment and electronic accounts should be handed back to the employer.

• Remind departing employees of their ongoing obligations relating to IP and CI postemployment.

If the employee is still employed within the business, you could consider providing a warning or terminating the employment.

However, it is likely that the employee has left (or is soon to be leaving) the business. In these circumstances, injunctive relief and damages sought through the courts may be the only option.

As this option is very costly, it is essential to firstly determine the money lost through the IP or CI infringement and consider whether pursuing this avenue is cost effective.

Need assistance?

Industry Legal Group provides advice on all issues relating to IP and CI and in particular, can assist in amending employment contracts to protect your business against IP and CI theft.

Please contact Industry Legal Group on 1300 369 703 or aaaa@industrylegalgroup.com.au if you require any assistance.

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INSIDE INVENTORY

PICK A DEGREE OF DIFFICULTY...

Perfectly executed off a three metre springboard, a back four and a half somersault with pike is three times more difficult than a simple forward dive It is the sort of dive that only the very best attempt to execute in competition, because you might elect to do a high degree of difficulty dive, but you have to pull it off too.

The final score on a dive is an aggregate zero to 10 score from multiple judges multiplied by the degree of difficulty. So, in a competition, you elect an appropriate degree of difficulty that you believe you can complete successfully, and then you need to score highly on the execution. What you decide to do will depend on your current position in the field, and your confidence in achieving results.

You don't want to overreach on the degree of difficulty and bomb the dive, but equally you don't want to aim too low, execute it perfectly, but achieve below your best potential score.

Managing inventory and purchasing is very similar.

It is all too easy to adopt overly simplistic methodologies like weeks of cover or one PO at a time; reactive, reorder point purchasing approaches.

With the techniques available today, you can do far better than these and other basic approaches. They might be easy to understand, but you will severely limit your potential results if you do not challenge yourself to do better.

Equally however if you attempt to do things that are way beyond your ability to execute, you will simply create confusion and chaos. Yes you will make a big splash. You will belly flop and fail. This can easily happen if you do not have the right tools, if your staff lack the right training or the master data is not maintained to a level to support your desired level of performance.

Win more by adopting new tricks A diver will start with a simple forward dive, then add a somersault and a twist, and then some more somersaults and twists; scoring higher as they pull off higher Degree of Difficulty dives. Each new trick is built on the confidence built from doing simpler tricks and, with practice, the diver's repertoire will grow.

Similarly, you could add to your capabilities as you grow more confident in how you manage inventory and purchasing. So: • rather than just adopting a reactive reorder point approach (see the August article), can you adjust the safety stock in advance of when it is needed for a seasonal product? After all, safety stock is positioning you to be able to handle variability with the next PO that is to arrive. You have to have the safety stock in place before it arrives.

To do this, you must look not just at the next order but also at the one after that. Not a big change by itself, but a bit like adding a twist or a somersault – and you will score more highly if you do.

• you might be calculating how to manage cross docking, but are you optimising your choices as to whether or not you should ship directly or cross dock? Are you recalculating what is to be done with an incoming PO which is intended to be cross docked? Are you adjusting how much is to now be sent to Sydney and Melbourne from Brisbane three months after the original order was placed, and now demand patterns have shifted slightly?

Each additional feature in your inventory management system will add a bit more to your repertoire. Potentially, you will be able to do a lot more automatically, and therefore achieve more benefits, and in turn even decrease the level of difficulty in managing your inventory. It also might mean more complexity and greater resistance to adopting techniques that people do not fully understand.

It does not have to be that difficult Of course, with the right approach, it does not have to be that difficult.

For example, just consider how your iPhone employs calculations based on the Special and General Theories of Relativity to determine your GPS position.

Clearly you do not need to be Einstein to utilise your iPhone and your son or daughter probably may not even be aware of the need to consider Relativity to improve GPS positioning. They do not even care, they just accept it.

It is similar with inventory management. We ought to be able to take advantage of many new innovations – rather than pulling out the old paper road maps and reverting to basic techniques, we ought to be able to take advantage of more sophisticated approaches as they become available.

What therefore do we need to do to make sure we execute at a higher level and do so consistently?

Some of the strategies which can be employed include: • Demonstrating the levels of benefits that can be achieved with basic functionality and then turn on new features and see how they produce better results. With the right modelling capabilities this is so easy to do, and can help build people's confidence in new techniques.

• Walk people through the different technique elements. Let them see how individual aspects of optimisation add value to different calculations. Show, for example, how considering the use of Common Quantities will help improve the quality of min and max values and how this subtle change can have big effects. After all, if something is always used in twos, having one, three or five units in stock is just wasting working

capital. Have that sort of mistake over a lot of items, and it could easily add up to lots of $$$.

Put in that context it would not be a subtle twist, but rather an important and fundamental technique improvement.

• Ensuring that people understand the value of the different techniques in different contexts. For example, with really slow movers that only ever sell in quantities of two it would be critical to consider Common Quantities whereas these techniques are less applicable with higher volume items. Of course you can do all this very easily for the thousands and thousands of items where it might apply.

Over time, provided you are prepared to look at new ways of doing things, you can gradually do more and more and do so more easily than you perhaps thought possible originally.

Standing on the board it may look daunting at first.

The competitors are doing better with each dive. You might however discover that once you take that first few steps and dives that your confidence and your capability will grow and that will be able to perform to a whole new level

...and EXECUTE WELL

For further information consult www.horizoninventory.com.au or email info@horizoninventory.com.au 95

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PRTC

SH#TBOX RALLY INDUSTRY GIANTS AUDI SPORT ABT SCHAEFFLER TRIUMPHS Audi Sport ABT Schaeffler wins team title in COMBINE REACHES FOR $15 the electric racing series ABB FIA Formula E Championship BMW MILLION 12 HOUR FOR Motor industry heavyweights BMW and CANCER COUNCIL Castrol have joined forces for the 2017

Just nine years after12itsHour launch, Liqui-Moly Bathurst with an all-star fundraising totals have reached $15 line-up million

Bathurst 1000 winners Mark Skaife, Russell ProudlyTony the Longhurst Cancer Council’s biggest national Ingall, and Steven Richards will fundraiser, Rallytwo-car challenges of line-up as Sh#tbox part of the effortteams for the two to drive car worth less than $1k across February 3-5 aevent.

Australia’sthedusty outback a week.1000 Overall, team bringsroads 14 for Bathurst When founder Freeman launched the rally victories amongJames its driving line up and Castrol has in 2009, more he wanted find athan wayany to fight protected 1000 to winners other for oil cancer with victims after both his brand, 20 and winssufferers throughout thelosing history of the mother and father to cancer in quick succession. race.

17 rallies have now been completed to two-time date.

The program is being pulled together by “I am absolutely that our combined Bathurst winner Tonythrilled in conjunction with Steven's fundraising effortsoperation. have ticked over $15 million BMW Team SRM raised, especially reach this amount we Joining Castrol to and BMW as partbefore of the embark on our 10 year anniversary rally next arrangement are telecommunications giant, year. I am who hoping with to the motorsport continued support Vodafone, return after a from our ofparticipants capitalise on our number years and we alsocan Gold Coast marine growth and double this amount in the next business, The Boat Works - which is ownedfive by years,” James said.

Tony.

Also contributing to fundraising totals Mark and Russell were fierce rivals on trackis- the the rally’s little brother, Mystery Box Rally duo's battles infamously coming to awhich headisata shorter Creek rally where participants only told Eastern in 2003 when Mark are remonstrated whichRussell town they begin end in. both are with fromwill beside theand track - and “We are that incredibly Box Rallies stunned they aregrateful finally intothe same team.for raisingwould $15have million for Cancer Council, which "Who thought that we'd be pairing up helps to fund our life-saving research.

We rely together?" Both asked at the all-star launch on in community Melbourne. donations to fund our work; since 2010, Box Rallies has helped fund over 24 "It’s a very exciting project," Markprojects said. across cutting-edge cancer research "It’s one of– those things nowhere, Australia projects thatthat arecame givingout usofhope for a really. are veryCancer seriousCouncil about NSW it, and we’ve cancer BMW free future,” Director got some great corporate partners too.said.

The way of Research, Professor Karen Canfell, we’re going to go about this is as good as we can May’s Brisbane to Darwin rally broke all do it.

At the end of the day, we want to surprise fundraising expectations and a ten-yeara few people." rally was just announced for 2019 anniversary For it isto almost moment,Box refromTony Perth Sydney.a 'full The circle' 2018 Mystery uniting BMW, Markthis Skaife and the Rally is with due to startCastrol, in Mildura October.

Richards family.

To find out more or to donate, go to "I started my career back in 1984 with Jim www.shitboxrally.com.au

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Winning the team title crowned four successful years for the Audi Sport ABT Schaeffler squad in Formula E. After a third and a brace of second places in the previous three seasons, in the two concluding races of the finale of season four in New York Lucas di Grassi and Daniel Abt produced a stirring comeback to overturn a deficit of 33 points into a two point advantage.

With the second one-two finish of the season, a new record in Formula E, the team set the foundation on Saturday and reduced the deficit to the leading Techeetah team to only five points.

Forty three laps in the Brooklyn neighborhood opposite the Manhattan skyline formed the ultimate showdown on Sunday to decide the winner of the teams’ classification.

With a fifth place on Saturday Jean-Éric Vergne (team Techeetah) was crowned as Lucas di Grassi’s successor in the drivers’ classification. It was then Techeetah versus Audi Sport ABT Schaeffler in a direct battle for the team crown in the final race of the 2017/2018 season. Di Grassi and Abt started from fourth and fifth places immediately behind their two rivals and during the race turned the teams’ classification ranking upside down.

In the end, Lucas di Grassi finished second and, in doing so, was crowned championship runnerup, Daniel Abt was third and scored another point for his fourth fastest race lap this season. With four podium finishes and two fastest race laps on the final weekend, Audi Sport ABT Schaeffler claimed 78 of the maximum 94 points possible and in doing so achieved the near impossible, the title in the teams’ classification.

“Incredible, we came here in a near hopeless position and still turned it all around. Team Champions, we couldn’t be happier! We were close every season so far and now we have this trophy in our trophy cabinet as well,” Schaeffler Chief Technology Officer, Prof Peter Gutzmer, said.

“Now we’ll put the first generation Formula E cars in the museum and look back on an extremely successful time now as the best team.”

In the first four Formula E seasons, Audi Sport ABT Schaeffler played a big role in the statistic books. No team took more podium finishes; namely 35 in the 45 races held previously. Eleven of them alone in 2017/2018. Never has a team achieved more during a single season. The topthree finishing streak for Lucas di Grassi between this year’s events in Mexico City and New York resulted in an absolute team record of seven consecutive podium finishes in one season.

In Rome, Paris and Berlin di Grassi and Abt set the record for the most fastest race laps in a row for a team. The Berlin event went down in history: with its one-two finish, pole position and the fastest race lap, Audi Sport ABT Schaeffler was the first team to take the maximum haul of 47 points and Abt became only the second driver in Formula E to achieve the extraordinary ‘triple’ comprised of a victory, pole and fastest race lap.

With four fastest race laps to his name, the 25year old also set a record in 2017/2018. Another unforgettable highlight was Lucas di Grassi winning the championship title in the 2016/2017 season.

The Audi e-tron FE04 is equipped with technology “made by Schaeffler.” Together with Audi, Schaeffler engineers developed the heart of the car: the combination of engine and transmission.

Schaeffler is official technology partner to Audi Sport ABT Schaeffler in the innovative electric racing series.

Schaeffler says it has also underlined its position on the race tracks as pioneer of electromobility since the first season in 2014/2015. Since the technical regulations were relaxed for the second season 2015/2016, specialists from Schaeffler developed the powertrain for the race car of the only German team. For Schaeffler, Formula E is one of the many fields of activity to work for a visionary and sustainable mobility for tomorrow.

During the Formula E finale the worldwide active technology company also gave an insight into the future of Formula E and invited almost 300 guests, including the German Ambassador to the US Dr Emily Haber as well as Georg F. W. Schaeffler, Managing Partner and Chairman of the Supervisory Board of Schaeffler AG, to a typical New York rooftop. Here they showed a prototype of the spectacular new Audi e-tron FE05 in which jointly developed powertrain technology from Schaeffler and Audi is used again. The first race in mid-December in Riyadh/Saudi Arabia rings in the second era in Formula E. For more from Schaeffler, visit www.schaeffler.com

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PRTC

SNAP-ON RAISES EREBUS MOTORSPORT HIGHER Snap-on is Erebus Motorsport’s official tool supplier and recently installed three high-quality hoists Snap-on Tools Australia and New Zealand has proudly installed three high-quality Snap-on hoists in the Erebus Motorsport workshop to assist the team fight for victory in one of the world’s most competitive racing series.

The Erebus Motorsport workshop is a hive of activity year-round and required versatile hoists that were up to the significant demands of a professional racing team that operates two Holden Commodores in the Supercars Championship.

Already the official Erebus Motorsport tool supplier, Snap-on says the new hoists provide the current Bathurst 1000 winning team’s technicians the most reliable, safe and versatile hoists on the market, adding efficiency in the continual quest to tweak their racing machinery to perfection in between events.

“Success in our business is all about maximising the ‘one percenters’ across the board. We already enjoy the benefits of Snap-on tools, so choosing Snap-on as our hoist supplier was an easy decision,” Erebus Motorsport General Manager, Barry Ryan, said.

“The new hoists give us the peace of mind and confidence to lift our race machinery day in and day out without worry, so we can concentrate on

the tasks that help us stay at the top of our game during race weekends.”

Snap-on’s unique four tonne two post hoist with telescopic arms allow symmetrical or asymmetrical loading either forward or backward, becoming four hoists in one. The front and rear triple stage arms can handle micro cars through to LWB SUVs and are the perfect hoists for the active Erebus Motorsport workshop.

“You can see the thought put into the design and quality of the materials and manufacture of the hoists. Being able to load cars forward or backward plays a big role in our ability to successfully juggle the demands of a busy workshop environment,” Erebus Workshop Manager, Damien Allen, said.

Ryan Mandelson, Snap-on Tools Marketing Manager, said he was excited to see the Snap-on hoists installed in the Erebus Motorsport workshop.

“We’re proud to be helping Erebus Motorsport with their motorsport program through our new range of Snap-on designed and manufactured hoists,” Ryan said.

“A successful team like Erebus demand the best and Snap-on hoists deliver that with industry leading quality and technology, all through a brand

that resonates success across nearly 100 years.”

Snap-on’s new hoist range adds to a selection of all new Snap-on wheel service equipment, including wheel balancers and tyre changers, the highly requested new equipment ranges offering Australian workshops the opportunity to save time and add profitability to their businesses.

This new range of Snap-on hoists and wheel service equipment is all backed with an industry leading two year warranty and national service network.

For more information, contact your Snap-on Franchisee or visit www.snapontools.com.au

DAYCO-BACKED STUDENT TEAM TAKES INTERNATIONAL WIN The Dayco-sponsored Monash Motorsport Formula Student Team has achieved its first-ever international victory Dayco Australia says an important part of its motorsport program is the nurturing of new engineering and technical talent within the automotive industry through the company’s long term support of the Melbourne-based Monash University Formula Student racing team.

This outstanding young Australian team has once again competed strongly on the global Formula Student stage, racing to victory for the first time against Universities from all over the world at Britain’s historic home of motorsport, Silverstone, recently.

The Australian team raced to overall first place with its internal combustion engine powered car and finished third overall with their electric powered car, with both Monash Motorsport cars using integral Dayco engine components to control thermal management and performance.

Integral to achieving this success was the opportunity for the Monash Motorsport team to test prior to the competition in Europe with some of the highest performing Formula Student teams in world. The Dayco sponsored team was invited to attend an extremely selective competition practice event hosted by Bosch at their extensive

automotive proving ground facility located in Boxberg, Germany.

This event, attended by 30 of the best combustion, electric and driverless Formula Student teams in the world, allowed the Australian team to replicate competition conditions.

Monash Motorsport overcame many challenges during the competition at Silverstone, with more than 100 global teams taking part. The team’s electric car, the M17-E, achieved 10th place overall for acceleration, seventh for Skidpad and third for Autocross. The team’s combustion car, the M17-C, set its fastest ever acceleration time of 4.11s, scoring a seventh overall placing along with fourth for Skidpad and second in Autocross.

Both Dayco equipped Monash Motorsport cars set very competitive times throughout the Endurance event, with the M17-C and M17-E finishing first and second respectively and ultimately scoring the most points across all the Dynamics based events.

The Monash Motorsport team was ecstatic to have achieved an overall first place with their combustion car and an overall third place for their electric car - and to have won their first ever

international competition in Monash Motorsport history. The Melbourne based team gained a huge amount of online media exposure and international recognition with this win, along with major interest from the global automotive engineering community.

“Dayco Australia is delighted to be a long term supporter of Monash University’s Formula Student program and congratulates this talented young Australian racing team on their first ever international victory,” Dayco Vice President Aftermarket Asia Pacific, Arnold Mouw, said.

“We are also proud that a number of Dayco components have contributed to this success and wish the team more victories in the future.”

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4WD

PIRANHA’S PLUG-IN SOLUTIONS Piranha Off Road has released two new ‘groovy gadgets’ Piranha Off Road says it is proud to announce two “very clever” new products that it says may not be Earth shattering but are certainly exciting in the 4WD and Caravan electrical fields.

Piranha explains Anderson plugs have been around for years and have captured the market for reliable plug in products such as caravan and camper trailer connections, solar panel connections and more in a simple and easy way.

The normal Anderson plug is rated at 50amps and utilises terminals to cater for10mm gauge wire for maximum power delivery.

The down side to a standard Anderson plug, says Piranha, is that it’s hard to crimp properly when smaller gauge wire is used.

Piranha says it has new Anderson plug terminals that allow for the use of 5mm and 6mm wire securely and have the standard size lug to fit all 50amp Anderson plugs. It’s a small thing, however it offers flexibility for tradies and the home handy man to safely use Anderson plugs in all manner of jobs where thinner gauge wire is used.

The terminals are sold separately for $5.00 each

or you can by an Anderson plug for $12.95 including a choice of terminals.

The second electronic gadget is the Piranha Midi Fuse mounting kit specifically designed with bolts, nuts and fuse to suit the Original Equipment (OE) fuse box on the Toyota 79 Series, HiLux and Fortuner 2015 models onward.

This kit allows the owner to add an additional fuse into the system to power a fused connection to run pretty much anything. It will work with a variety of fuses from 30amps to 100amps and caters for higher capacity products up to 50amps, compressors from 20 or 40amp, battery to battery up to 100amp and even DC to DC products from 40 to 80amp.

This mounting kit sits neatly in the original fuse box without any additional modifications and is ideal for the pedantic and fussy vehicle owner avoiding the need to have a messy separate fuse box in the engine bay. The Midi fuse mounting kit retails for just $25.00.

To find out more information on the range of battery and auxiliary trays and battery management systems

available, 12-volt products and electrical gear, contact the team at Piranha Off Road Products on 03 9762 1200 or visit www.piranhaoffroad.com.au

COIL CONVERSION KITS From Superior Engineering Superior Engineering Coil Conversion Kits allow you to convert your leaf sprung PXII Ranger or 79 Series Landcruiser to a more compliant ride with better handling both on and off-road.

The kits are designed, tested and manufactured in Brisbane to suit Australian conditions and are supplied with everything you need to convert your vehicle from leaf springs to coils, all brackets, mounts, coils, shocks, control arms and brake lines.

The NCOP VSB pre-approval paperwork is also supplied, to aid you in having your fitted coil conversion legally approved.

The Coil Conversion Kit utilises many original bolt locations to precisely place many of the brackets

on the vehicle, allowing simple installation, says Superior Engineering.

The Superior Engineering Weld-In Coil Conversion design was chosen to provide a more robust and longer lasting solution for the rugged Ford PXII Ranger or 79 Series Cruiser.

The company says it felt that a welded package can help distribute the loads more evenly and provide a great balance of on-road handling and off-road ability.

“Once you drive on a Superior Coil Rear you won't ever want to go back to leaf sprung suspension” says Superior Engineering, stating you should “do your spine a favour and get the Superior Engineering Weld-In Coil Suspension.”

Superior Engineering explains that it has developed the kit to be easy to install with full instructions and states it has done all the hard work and testing while also performing accredited lane change tests and gaining design approvals under the NCOP VSB LS Codes.

Key features and highlights: • Street legal and compliant, approval under VSB LS Codes • Weld-in kit featuring chassis strengthening brace (side) 98

• Utilises factory mounting locations for a precise fit • Supplied pre-fabricated for an easy installation • Improved geometry for better tyre clearance • Increased wheel travel and articulation • Upper control arms (adjustable) • 40mm lower control arms (fixed) • Airbag suspension compatible • Fully adjustable pinion angle • Provides precise handling • Improved comfort and ride • 350 Grade steel mounts For more information on a Coil Conversion please call Superior Engineering on 07 5433 1411 or visit www.superiorengineering.com.au

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4WD

CONNECT WITH 40+ PERCENT OF THE MARKET Thanks to Diesel Tech Australia’s common rail diesel tuning solution With Utes and SUVs now accounting for more than 40 percent of all new vehicles sold, it’s never been a better time to service and improve the performance of the late model common rail diesel engine, says Horsepower Factory General Manager, Robert Victory.

Diesel Tune Australia (DTA) is Robert’s brain child, starting out officially in 2014.

“We had always offered a tuning solution for late model diesel vehicles as we had the software primarily used to tune late model European vehicles, and as we developed, we found we were getting excellent and repeatable results and the word got out,” Rob said.

“We have continued to grow and we now have 11 Dealers across the country.”

DTA remaps the vehicle’s ECU to achieve gains in power and torque between 15 percent and 50 percent depending on the type of vehicle. It says remapping the vehicle’s own ECU has shown to be much more effective compared to diesel chips and is also much safer for the engine as the ECU is still in control of what the engine is doing.

It concentrates on achieving safe air fuel mixtures rather than chasing down every last kilowatt, explains Robert, who states that part of what makes Diesel Tune Australia different is the way they test and check each vehicle on the dynamometer.

“The testing of each vehicle before it leaves our DTA dealer’s shop is something we request of all our dealers, it ensures reliability and effectiveness and we back that up with what we believe is one of the best warranties out there,” Rob said.

Rob says another of DTA’s strengths lies in its technology, with the company constantly upgrading to the latest technology and it is this which allows DTA to tune the latest vehicles, such as Mercedes Benz’s X250 where a gain of around 20 percent can reportedly be achieved in both power and torque. Additionally, DTA can also recalibrate some automatic transmissions control units.

“Vehicles like the 200 series Landcruiser respond very well to changes to overdrive and TCC lock up points to maximise economy,” Rob said.

DTA is looking to continue to grow its Dealer network and is currently looking for quality workshops, particularly in Regional areas and Brisbane and Adelaide.

It says if you have “a well set-up shop with a Dyno and want to connect with 40 percent of the new car buying public” then you should contact DTA. For more information, visit www.dieseltuneaustralia.com or contact sales@hp-f.com.au or 03 9793 1616.

EUROPEAN APPROVED SUSPENSION KITS Ironman 4x4 has gained formal approval for its range of suspension kits by German TÜV Nord and the German Federal Motor Transport Authority (KBA) The leading Australian 4x4 accessory company is the first aftermarket suspension company to successfully receive this approval for the most popular 4x4 pickups sold worldwide.

The approval took more than 18 months and covers 10 different vehicles: Toyota Hilux, Toyota Prado 150, Isuzu D-Max, Mitsubishi L200 Triton MQ, Nissan Navara NP300, Ford Ranger, VW Amarok, Mercedes X-Class, FIat Fullback and Renault Alaskan.

For German customers this means their 4x4s can legally install the KBA/ABE certified suspension kit upgrade without requiring annual recertification.

Ironman 4x4 suspension kits are sold in more than 160 countries. The TÜV Nord approval allows for legal installation of Ironman 4x4 Suspension and conformity with all national and international road laws. International based customers are set to benefit most, however the approvals may be useful in Australia for customers who require or value the need for product certifications.

For more information, visit www.ironman4x4.com 99

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RETAIL

THE DAWN OF TWILIGHT SUPPLY CHAINS Can you keep up with the demands of the modern consumer?

As traffic congestion around Australian cities becomes increasingly problematic (and expensive for transport companies) and the rapid growth on ecommerce and ‘m-commerce’ (mobile commerce) drives up fulfilment expectation from consumers, many organisation are looking for non-traditional logistics solutions.

The modern consumer expects to be able to order online in the evening and have goods delivered the next day. This same consumer does not care about the implications on supply chains for the retailer to provide this level of fulfilment, however they are significant, to say the least.

Keele Global explains the key impacts on the retailer/s are commonly: • Systems: Retailers must be able to process payments and drop orders into their WMS (warehouse management system) in order for the warehouse to ‘pick’ the order and then the TMS (transport management system) must be totally integrated to select and book the most appropriate carrier for the delivery.

• Warehousing: ‘Traditional’ warehousing operating hours in Australia typically range anywhere between 6:00am – 6:00pm, with substantial increases in operating costs for the warehouse providers to work overtime, afternoon and/or night shifts.

• Transportation: Similar to traditional warehousing, most courier and light-truck operators typically only operate during ‘daytime’ hours, however the need for ‘twilight’ (could be defined from 6:00pm – 10:30pm in the evening) or ‘overnight’ (could be defined as door delivery drops between 10:30pm 6:00am the next day) customer deliveries is a game changer for last mile fulfilment transport companies.

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• People: Apart from the ‘system’ impact (which would still require staff on-tap for troubleshooting), all of the above key impacts require actual people to run the warehouses and drive the vans/trucks outside of daytime hours.

Therefore, an increase in ‘afternoon and night shift’ workforce is expected.

• Cost: All of the above factors will increase the actual ‘cost to serve’ of the products.

Consumers are demanding convenience with their purchases like never before and Australia is already a large and complex landscape for last-mile fulfilment during ‘normal’ operating hours. New market entrants such as Amazon may soon launch their ‘Amazon Prime’ delivery service, which will see another major shift in the delivery expectations of online sales.

Ironically, one of the often unexplored impacts is actually on the consumers themselves. Consumers may not all live in a single house on a quarter-acre block in 2018, and even if they do, there are neighbours’ eyebrows raised about a courier driver delivering a parcel at 9:30pm in the dark.

For those consumers who enjoy apartment-style or other multi-dwelling living, these properties commonly have security access (either entrance lobbies or gates) which require a ‘human’ intervention at the time of delivery.

This delivery ‘access’ problem is already being considered by architects all around the world when designing apartment blocks and urban housing of the future. Some have even incorporated ‘drone parcel delivery chutes’ to enable autonomous drones to ‘drop’ a parcel into a chute for each resident at any time of the day or night.

Keele Global says it believes the age of Australia’s ‘twilight supply chain’ is going to rapidly emerge, which provides an enormous (and exciting)

opportunity for retailers and supply chain service providers who are prepared to take the plunge and offer consumers a rapid fulfilment turn-around and unsurpassed levels of customer service.

Of course, this convenience will all come at a cost – most likely to the retailer/s more-so than the consumer, however the cost of not offering a rapid and convenient order fulfilment will be in lost sales revenue.

So what does all of this mean for your retail or distribution business in Australia? Well, simply put it’s time to get your supply chain act together very quickly. There’s no time for complacency or disjointed systems and processes anywhere across your supply chain.

Online platforms and order processing systems need to be robust, warehousing SOPs and efficiencies need to be fine-tuned, transport and last-mile deliveries need to be optimised – and your customer should be able to see the progress of their order/delivery on their smart phone or tablet at any time of the day or night.

Keele Global warns that if you’re not innovating your supply chain and leveraging technologies to be able to offer a flexible and convenient customer experience, then you’ll be quickly left behind by your competitors who may be a start-up, marketdisruptor who is half your age and understands the modern day expectations of the millennial consumer.

For more information, visit www.keeleglobal.com

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