Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine - February 2020

FEBRUARY 2020

FUTURE AUTO INNOVATIONS: CREATING SEAMLESS VEHICLE-TO-EVERYTHING CONNECTIVITY

THE CHANGING WORLD OF THE INDEPENDENT WORKSHOP

AUTO INNOVATION CENTRE OPENS TO SERVE THE AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY

ABOUT THE COVER Bosch has partnered with more than 13,000 workshops around the world and created the largest independent network of workshops, known as the “Bosch Car Service” network.

REGULAR DEPARTMENTS Calendar................................................ 4 New Members........................................ 4 AAAA Report ......................................... 5 News..................................................... 6 Products.............................................. 24

HR Matters.......................................... 77 Consumer Law...................................... 78 Inside Inventory.................................... 79 4WD.................................................... 80

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KEEPING YOU INFORMED Auto Innovation Centre opens to serve the automotive industry........................................ 6 AAAA expansion to drive strategic growth and member value........................................... 8 Automechanika Shanghai breaks records...................................................................... 9 New brand positioning for Capricorn........................................................................... 10 Terrain Tamer celebrates........................................................................................... 12 The changing world of the independent workshop........................................................ 14 Ryco Filters recognised............................................................................................. 16 Opus IVS acquires AutoEnginuity............................................................................... 19

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FEATURES Cover Feature: Bosch – Build a better business in 2020................................................ 20 R&D: Milford - The Strong, Silent Type........................................................................ 22 2019 Innovation Awards: Most Innovative New Packaging.............................................. 50 Member Feature: Redarc - Bucking the trend................................................................ 52 Handtools & Diagnostics: Keeping on top of technical nuances....................................... 54 Fluids & Lubricants: All the latest on Fluids & Lubricants............................................... 62 Future Auto Innovations: Creating seamless vehicle-to-everything connectivity.................. 72 Trade Talk: Ray Smith-Roberts: Leaving a significant legacy.......................................... 74 Industry Awareness: Change is coming......................................................................... 82

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

CAB Audited

7 – 8 Bastow Place, Mulgrave VIC 3170, Australia Phone: 03 9545 3333 Fax: 03 9545 3355 Email: info@aaaa.com.au Website: www.aaaa.com.au

EDITOR Allan Edwards

EDITORIAL Tel 61 3 9372 9125

PRODUCTION MANAGER Brigid Fraser, Tel 61 3 9505 0121

Official publication of the AAAA

ADVERTISING Tel 61 3 9545 3333

PUBLISHER Cameron McLachlan

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

AAAA NEWS

CALENDAR 2020 TAPA Show

Bangkok international Trade & Exhibition Centre, Bangkok, Thailand 2 – 5 April 2020 www.thailandautopartsfair.com/

Taipei AMPA

Hall 1 & 2, Nangang Exhibition Center, Taipei, Taiwan 15 – 18 April 2020 www.taipeiampa.com.tw

Automechanika Dubai

Dubai International Convention & Exhibition Centre 7 – 9 June 2020 www.automechanika-dubai.ae.messefrankfurt.com

Autocare

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

Automechanika Frankfurt

Frankfurt AM Main 8 – 12 September 2020 www.automechanika.messefrankfurt.com

AAPEX

Sands Expo, Las Vegas, NV 3 – 5 November 2020 www.aapexshow.com

SEMA

Las Vegas Convention Center 3 – 6 November 2020 www.semashow.com

Automechanika Shanghai

National Exhibition & Convention Center, Puxi, Shanghai 2 – 5 December 2020 www.automechanika-shanghai.hk.messefrankfurt.com

Performance Racing Industry Trade Show Indiana Convention Center, Indianapolis, Indiana 10 – 12 December 2020 www.performanceracing.com/tradeshow

NEW MEMBERS AGI Precision Pty Ltd Unit 24, 19 Aero Road INGLEBURN NSW 2565 Ph: 02 9605 4411 E: adam@agi-group.com.au Australian Ultimate Suspension Unit 1, 2 Noonan Road INGLEBURN NSW 2565 Ph: 02 9618 7674 E: ken@ultimatesuspension.com.au Autopro Joondalup 92/93 Joondalup Drive EDGEWATER WA 6027 Ph: 08 9301 2341 E: autoprojoondalup@gmail.com Coastwide Auto Electrics PL 67-71 Five Islands Road PORT KEMBLA NSW 2505 Ph: 02 4276 3611 E: coastwideautoelec@bigpond.com Global Trade Consulting 127 Diana Road Portage IN 46368 United States Ph: 312 735-2048 E: phil.jankura@gmail.com Hi-Tec Vehicle Management 11 Elwin Drive ORANGE NSW 2800 Ph: 02 5301 6599 E: Geoff@scnce.com.au Hornsby Auto Electrical Services 77 Hunter Street HORNSBY NSW 2077 Ph: 02 9477 1893 E: roy.marlow@hornsbyauto.com.au John Dale Motors Pty Ltd 4 Botham Close CHARMHAVEN NSW 2263 Ph: 02 4392 1327 E: admin@johndalemotors.com.au Let’s Torque Automotive 5/13-17 Warraba Road NORTH NARRABEEN NSW 2101 Ph: 02 9970 6373 E: peter@letstorqueautomotive.com.au Licensed Certifiers Association (LCA) Unit 1, 2 Noonan Road INGLEBURN NSW 2565 Ph: 02 9618 7674 MBL Service Station 81 Wilson Street NEWTOWN NSW 2042 Ph: 02 9519 5153 E: mbl.newtown@gmail.com Milwaukee Tool 21 Kelletts Road ROWVILLE VIC 3178 Ph: 0 1300 645 928 E: tom.mathiesen@milwaukeetools.com.au Natrad Enoggera 42 Pickering Street ENOGGERA QLD 4051 Ph: 07 3355 5000 E: crowhurstmotors@outlook.com Natrad Heidelberg 113 McEwan Road WEST HEIDELBERG VIC 3081 Ph: 03 9457 5305 E: mark@burgessauto.com.au Premier Automotive 30 Dale Street BROOKVALE NSW 2100 Ph: 02 9905 1853 E: wendys@towermotors.net.au Repco Authorised Service Clyde North (Star Motorworks) 1/2 Silvretta Court CLYDE NORTH VIC 3978 Ph: 0430 432 900 E: starmotorwork@hotmail.com

Repco Authorised Service Eden (KSR Automotive) 137-145 Prince’s Highway EDEN NSW 2551 Ph: 02 6496 1210 E: andrew@kingbros.net.au Repco Authorised Service Hamilton (Lee Killen Automotive) Shed 2, 28-30 Peck Street HAMILTON VIC 3300 Ph: 03 5571 2796 E: lee.killen.auto@outlook.com Repco Authorised Service Kingsbury (The Bald Lad Automotive) 89 Dunne Street KINGSBURY VIC 3083 Ph: 0478 810 624 E: 001basile@gmail.com Repco Authorised Service Munno Para (Auto Plus SA) 238 Curtis Road MUNNO PARA SA 5118 Ph: 08 8522 8080 E: info@autoplussa.com.au Repco Authorised Service Nebo (Maverick Mechanical) 160 Walshs Road NEBO QLD 4742 Ph: 0499 794 106 E: rudi@maverickmechanical.com.au Repco Authorised Service Noble Park (Noble Park Autobody and Mechanical) 35A Buckleys Lane NOBLE PARK VIC 3174 Ph: 0409 193 223 E: admin@precisionautogroup.com.au Repco Authorised Service Pakenham (Star Motorworks) 4 / 6-8 Hogan Court PAKENHAM VIC 3810 Ph: 03 5941 1602 E: starmotorwork@hotmail.com Repco Authorised Service Ravenhall (SLS Motors) 15 Freight Drive RAVENHALL VIC 3023 Ph: 0414 975 431 E: slsmotors@outlook.com Repco Authorised Service South Morang (Total Car Services) 350 McDonalds Road SOUTH MORANG VIC 3752 Ph: 0432 041 062 E: totalcarservices@hotmail.com Repco Authorised Service Wagga Wagga (Hartrite) 285 Copland Street WAGGA WAGGA NSW 2650 Ph: 02 6938 3700 E: peter.flew@hartrite.com.au Repco Authorised Service Wodonga (Prestige Car Servicing and Truck Repairs) 8-12 Hovell Street WODONGA VIC 3690 Ph: 0417 586 426 E: mr-anderson15591@hotmail.com Repco Authorised Service Yass (Yass Valley Automotive) 92 Laidlaw Street YASS ACT 2582 Ph: 02 6226 6630 E: service@yassvalleyauto.com.au Safa Auto Parts & Services 26 Furniss Road LANDSDALE WA 6065 Ph: 08 9303 2417 E: suliman@safaautoparts.com The RPM Group 6-18 Antonella Court DANDENONG SOUTH VIC 3175 Ph: 02 9375 0165 E: clive@carline.com.au

AAAA BOARD OF DIRECTORS CHAIRMAN Mark Pedder (VIC) Pedders Suspension Pty Ltd Ph: 03 9706 3500

DEPUTY CHAIRMAN Wayne Bryant (VIC), Repco Pty Ltd Ph: 03 9566 5444

SECRETARY Janelle Gonzalez (NSW), Blue Toro Pty Ltd Ph: 1300 258 386

TREASURER Don Cormack (SA) ADRAD Pty Ltd Ph: 08 8243 9888

DIRECTORS Craig Baills (QLD), Highfields Mechanical Ph: 07 4696 7116

Stuart Charity Chief Executive Officer

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

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2020

Sean Buckley (VIC), Ultra Tune Australia Pty Ltd Ph: 03 9815 9200 Nikki Gerling (VIC), Robert Bosch (Australia) Pty Ltd Ph: 03 9541 5555 Craig Magill (VIC), Burson Automotive Pty Ltd Ph: 03 9914 5555

Darren Robinson (VIC), HELLA Australia Pty Ltd Ph: 1800 061 729 Graham Scudamore-Smith (QLD) Fulcrum Suspensions Pty Ltd Ph: 07 3892 9000

Mark Pedder Chairman

AAAA NEWS

A NEW DECADE, AN ANNIVERSARY AND A NEW-LOOK AAAA I would like to welcome everyone to 2020 and the first edition of this year’s Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine Firstly, on behalf of all of us at AAAA – staff and board members – I wanted to send our thoughts and condolences to those affected by the bushfires. Throughout this devastating time, we have been deeply affected by the stories of bravery and of loss. We understand our AAAA members are deeply affected by this tragedy, one that continues to harm our environment and our friends.

On top of the tragic loss of life and huge amounts of property lost, we are also aware of the significant business impacts and disruptions particularly in regional areas, that will unfortunately be felt for quite some time. The AAAA has compiled a list of government support services and programs, including information on Bushfire Relief and Disaster Recovery Payments, to help our members during this difficult period. If you or another AAAA member you know needs assistance or resources, please contact the AAAA National Office – we are here to help.

In more positive news, it’s incredible to think that this year marks the 40th anniversary of the AAAA’s formation. In 1980 the Association was founded by a group of businesses that became concerned with regulatory developments in Australia and their impact on the automotive aftermarket sector.

Putting aside competitive rivalries, they came together to better serve and protect the industry, under the banner of the ‘Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association’. To this day, the AAAA is the only independent, national body representing and supporting the automotive aftermarket industry.

From those humble beginnings under the leadership and vision of founding Executive Director and President Graham Rose, the industry has seen huge changes. The AAAA has been at the forefront of these industry issues and in many cases championed changes to regulation to support and foster growth opportunities in the aftermarket industry. The AAAA regularly works with and provides guidance to State and National Ministers and regulators on behalf of the industry.

The AAAA has also long championed arguably the aftermarket industry’s largest issue of the modern times; mandatory data sharing. It was only late last year that the Morrison Government officially announced that Mandatory Data Sharing will become law, in what was a proud milestone moment for the Association after so many years of work.

The Association offers a vast range of other

membership services. From HR and legal assistance hotlines, to our huge 2021 Auto Expo and Autocare Convention (19th -20th June 2020), networking and training events, international trade missions, industry data and market intelligence as well as marketing opportunities through this magazine and our digital channels.

Today the AAAA is better positioned and equipped than ever to fulfill our role. Our fantastic, hardworking and knowledgeable team has expanded in recent times to better service the membership and further enhance our reach and impact across the industry.

The next stage of this expansion is upon us, and I am excited to announce the addition of two new senior leadership positions to our team. These positions are designed to provide the Association with the expertise and resources to help drive the strategic direction and growth of our business, as we continue to expand our industry influence and membership value.

Tiffany Conway has joined us in the role of Head of Membership and Marketing. Tiffany has over 20 years’ experience in senior membership and marketing roles with not-for-profit organisations such as the Pharmacy Guild of Australia, Defence Health Limited and in a marketing role with the RACV. John Braden joins us in the position of Head of Operations and Strategy. John has over 20 years’ experience in senior finance and commercial roles with Ford, Toyota and BMW in Australia, and with BMW in Europe. He also comes from a family of engineers and is a car enthusiast.

I am looking forward to the positive contribution John and Tiffany will have to the team, the Association and our industry.

The AAAA Board also saw changes at its December Board meeting. I am pleased to announce that Mark Pedder has taken over as the Chairman of the Board. Mark has been a long-time advocate, and long serving Board member of the AAAA and I have no doubt that his talent and extensive industry knowledge will shine through in this critical role.

I’d like to take this opportunity to thank Graham Scudamore-Smith for his three year tenure as Chairman and his 16 years of service on the AAAA Board. Anyone that has worked closely with Graham knows the passion he has for our industry and for the people that work in it. Graham’s contribution and input into the AAAA Board, the

PRTC, our advocacy work, as well industry skills and training initiatives has been immense and has helped the Association shape the strong and vibrant aftermarket industry we have today.

Personally Graham has provided me with tremendous support and counsel in the 13 years we have worked together and has always generously shared his valuable time and expertise.

Fortunately Graham will remain on the AAAA Board in the position of Immediate Past Chairman.

Other important changes see Wayne Bryant as the new Deputy Chairman, Janelle Gonzalez filling the role of Secretary and Don Cormack taking on the position of Treasurer. I’m sure you’ll join me in wishing them and the entire board well in their important work.

With these changes to the AAAA team and our Board, the Auto Innovation Centre open for business and our new logo in place, we are feeling fresh, looking modern and ready to tackle all the challenges and opportunities that come our way in this new decade.

While we are immensely proud of our past and the lessons learned over the last 40 years, the AAAA continues to look forward to ensure we are able to anticipate future trends, provide guidance and support and provide a regulatory environment that fosters the future growth and sustainability of our great industry.

I wish you all success throughout 2020 in your business and personal endeavors. Please remember the AAAA is here to serve you. If you have suggestions on how we can further assist you or provide additional value, please contact us on 03 9545 3333 or info@aaaa.com.au

MARK PEDDER Chairman

STUART CHARITY Chief Executive Officer

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2020

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NEWS

AUTO INNOVATION CENTRE OPENS TO SERVE THE AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY The AIC offers key services and the perfect venue to ensure industry personnel can maximise their potential The AAAA officially opened its Melbourne-based Auto Innovation Centre (AIC) to the Australian Automotive Aftermarket Industry late last year.

The establishment of two Auto Innovation Centres, in Victoria and South Australia, has been a highly anticipated addition to support automotive parts manufacturing in Australia. The state-of-the-art facility in Mulgrave, Melbourne will assist Australian manufacturers in continuing to develop their world-class products.

On Thursday the 12th of December in front of two hundred industry representatives, sponsors, dignitaries and media, Senator Rex Patrick cut the ribbon to open the AIC facility.

Senator Patrick spoke to the assembled audience on the importance of a facility like the AIC that will support the Australian automotive and manufacturing sector and the aftermarket companies contributing in a meaningful way to the Australian economy.

Joining the Senator in welcoming those in attendance and speaking of the vision of the AIC was AIC Managing Director, Luke Truskinger, and AAAA Chief Executive Officer, Stuart Charity.

“The Auto Innovation Centre was the fruition of over five years’ work by the Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association and was modelled on the SEMA Garage in the US,” Stuart said.

“With thanks to both the Federal and Victorian Governments, their investment has assisted in bringing this incredible facility to reality, and now it is up and running it will enable the industry to utilise the technologies, services and training and development opportunities for their direct benefit.”

Stuart explained how the early seeds of the AIC were planted.

“I was walking through the SEMA Garage and I thought ‘what a fantastic facility’ and I thought ‘why can’t we do this in Australia?’ and why not as we have so much in common with the US automotive industry,” he said.

“We are clever and we are innovative. We lead the world in many products in 4WD, high performance and motorsport.

“The SEMA Garage is actually an appropriate model when you consider how many of the products that lead our industry today actually started in someone’s garage. So much of the inspiration of our successful companies and products came from the thought that we could design something that works better.

“Indeed that is how we built our industry and it is an industry that has outlasted all of the predictions about the demise of automotive manufacturing in Australia. Our industry is not only surviving but it’s thriving globally, especially in the specialty equipment market.

“Paramount to the success of our industry is our investment in research and development and our investment in start-of-the-art equipment and technology and in cutting edge skills. That’s why we can compete globally on innovation and not on price. People want Australia’s ingenuity and we enjoy a reputation of quality and reliability because our products are developed in some of the toughest conditions in the world.”

Senator Patrick said that the AIC was “a tribute to a never say die attitude.”

He outlined that the AIC was paramount to the future success of the industry and to the prosperity of the country’s economy.

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Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2020

NEWS “We can’t continue to export our rocks. At some stage we will run out. We are so dependent on our exporting of rocks and we need to stop that,” Senator Patrick said.

“I will give you one example of that. We have about 80 percent of the world’s lithium and we currently export about 60 percent of the world’s supply. It’s predicted that in 2025 lithium exports will be worth 12.5 billion dollars, so we could have a portion of that. If we go to the refining and processing stage, that is going to be worth $41 billion; then if we go to electrochemical processing that is going to be worth $297 billion; if we get to cell production that is $424 billion and then finally to battery assembly, $1.3 trillion dollars.

“Now what part of that do we want? Do we want $12 billion or $1.3 trillion? That’s what we need to be shooting for and in order to do that we need to be value adding here in Australia.

“All of the intellectual property is developed through research and development and then prototype testing and eventually going to development – a facility like this is going to be so important.”

The Auto Innovation Centre offers a mix of key services to the automotive industry.

State-of-the-art robotic equipment is already delivering premium vehicle testing services for product manufacturers, including Sinewith-Dwell testing (ADR35/88) to validate ESC performance, as well as brake performance testing (ADR31/35).

With access to key new target vehicles, the AIC will obtain important vehicle data, use 3D scanning to assist aftermarket companies’

product development and allow developers to get ‘hands on’ with these vehicles.

100-person capacity training room overlooking the AIC workshop space.

The advanced workshop equipment and technology will be accessible to the industry and this includes the AIC’s investment into additive manufacturing through 3D printing equipment and training modules.

The AIC offers the perfect venue to ensure industry personnel can maximise their potential.

The Centre of Excellence will be a Hub for automotive training and education, playing a key role in inspiring the next generation of automotive industry workers. There are multiple meeting and training rooms open to industry to book and utilise within the facility, with a dedicated

“This is a fantastic new facility for the industry, so we welcome companies contacting us to discuss how the centre can directly assist their business,” Luke said.

Another welcome development for the industry was the recent announcement by the Honourable Karen Andrews, Federal Minister for Industry, Science and Technology, of a second round of Automotive Innovation Lab Access Grants for companies in the automotive industry.

For more information and applications, visit www.business.gov.au/AILAG before they close on 24 February 2020 AAAA would like to thank all of the AIC’s Champion companies. All of these companies made an investment to complete a feasibility study without any guarantee of a return on their investment.

The AIC Champions are: AirbagMan, Allin, AMA Group, ARB, Australian Clutch Services, Bendix, Clutch Industries, Cruisemaster, Dana, Dayco, Disc Brakes Australia, DBC2, Fulcrum, Gearwrench, Harrop, Lovells, Milford, Molnar, Pedders, PWR, Redarc, TAG Towbars, Terrain Tamer, and Tuff Bullbars Australia.

AAAA would also like to thank the AIC’s Sponsor companies for supplying state-of-theart equipment and technological support. The AIC Sponsors are: Hella Gutmann, Continental, Burson (Precision Automotive Equipment), Bosch and Repco.

For more on the AIC, visit www.autoic.com.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2020

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NEWS

AAAA EXPANSION TO DRIVE 2020 CAPRICORN STRATEGIC GROWTH RISING STARS PROGRAM LAUNCHED AND MEMBER VALUE Capricorn is very pleased to be relaunching the Capricorn Rising Stars program again this February.

More than an “Apprentice of the Year” competition, Capricorn Rising Stars is an opportunity for our Members to recognise, reward and retain their most promising apprentices.

Through the simple act of submitting a nomination, Capricorn Members can encourage their apprentices, letting them know that they have a bright future ahead of them. This helps stoke their passion for automotive to keep them committed to a long career in the industry.

As the numbers of people taking up auto apprenticeships continue to decline (11.2 percent of all apprentices were automotive trainees in 2018 compared to 16.8 percent in 2008), the need for programs such as Capricorn Rising Stars has never been more apparent.

We want to ensure all those working towards a career in automotive, see it through to become our qualified repairers and workshop owners of the future.

Capricorn Rising Stars is proudly supported by Capricorn Preferred Suppliers Castrol, Repco, Autodata Training, The Workshop Whisperer and TaT who have provided some amazing prizes for the overall winner and top five finalists.

This is highlighted by the major prize of an allexpenses paid trip to the Vodafone 600 for the winning apprentice, their workshop boss and two friends.

Capricorn Members are encouraged to nominate their apprentices online now at www.capricorn.coop Thanks to all those who are supporting the industry by nominating their apprentice and best of luck to all who take part!

For more information on Capricorn Society membership, visit www.capricorn.coop 8

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2020

The Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA) has created two new senior leadership roles

The new roles are designed to add further membership value and drive strategic opportunities that will benefit the broader industry.

The new senior management positions are Head of Operations Tiffany Conway and Strategy and Head of Membership and Marketing.

“With recent growth of the Association and the scope of work we are undertaking for our members and the broader industry, it is important that we bolster our resources to fulfil our purpose and strategic objectives,” AAAA Chief Executive Officer, Stuart Charity, said.

“These new leadership roles will help AAAA have clear strategic direction and drive efficiencies and growth that will benefit members.”

“The appointments made to fill the new roles bring an enormous amount of talent, experience and leadership capability into our organisation. They will provide expertise and resources needed to help drive the strategic direction and growth of our business, as we continue to expand our industry influence and John Braden membership value.”

Tiffany Conway has joined the AAAA as Head of Membership and Marketing. This position will deliver a comprehensive membership strategy that drives sustained growth and member satisfaction. Tiffany will also lead AAAA’s public relations efforts, manage major communication and education campaigns and provide leadership and oversight of the membership, marketing, major events and publication teams.

Tiffany has over 20 years’ experience in senior membership and marketing roles. Most recently, Tiffany was Head of Marketing for large private health insurer, Defence Health Limited, overseeing improvement across many aspects of membership and marketing. Tiffany has also had significant success and experience working in not-for-profit organisations, including The Guild Group (Pharmacy Guild of Australia) and the RACV. She holds a Bachelor of Arts (English and Sociology) and Associate Diploma in Business and Marketing.

“Tiffany’s experience in strategic membership and marketing roles shines through. She has the perfect mix of strategic marketing focus and consistent results in membership satisfaction and growth to take the Association forward,” Stuart said.

John Braden joins the AAAA in the position of Head of Operations and Strategy. This role is responsible for managing the AAAA operations and finances, as well as working closely with the CEO to drive the strategic direction and growth of the business and assist in the development and roll out of new commercial opportunities.

John has over 20 years’ experience in senior finance and commercial roles with Ford, Toyota and BMW both in Australia and in Europe. John has served on a number of company boards and holds a Bachelor of Commerce (Banking and Finance) and Associate Diploma in Business.

He also comes from a family of engineers and is a car enthusiast.

“With a unique mix of strategic ability and demonstrated success in the automotive sphere, John’s strong commercial background, financial acumen and strategic focus will provide a strong foundation for future growth that will strengthen the AAAA, our membership and the broader industry,” Stuart said.

The AAAA is excited by the opportunities these new appointments present for the Association and look forward to the positive contribution that John and Tiffany will make to the team and our industry.

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

NEWS

AUTOMECHANIKA SHANGHAI BREAKS RECORDS Participation skyrocketed at the 15th edition of Automechanika Shanghai, including a strong Australian contingent The 15th edition of Automechanika Shanghai, which took place across 3- 6 December 2019, recorded even more industry participation than ever before with 159,728 visitors connecting with 6,590 exhibitors across the show floor, which totalled 360,000sqm across 14 halls.

Amongst the record number of visitors, which included 165 buyer groups from 24 countries and regions, were many AAAA members who were sourcing new product and researching the latest aftermarket industry trends. AAAA organised accommodation for the Australian contingent and all reported that they had a successful show.

Celebrations of the show’s 15th edition milestone were felt all around the fairground. Participants were reportedly particularly keen to express thoughts around the fair’s quick growth and influence, not just in the domestic market, but the international industry too.

Its automotive ecosystem was channelled through the fairground’s new zones and fringe programme events in efforts to connect a wider automotive community. As a result, more finance firms, insurance companies, research institutes, talent management experts, start-ups, and players across the entire supply chain flocked to the show.

The fair had expanded many of its themed zones and areas. For example, the enhanced Tomorrow’s Service and Mobility sector shed light on the latest innovations for electromobility, intelligent vehicle technology, car connectivity, mobility services, smart road systems and lightweight materials.

Other areas which proved immensely popular amongst participants were the elevated Customising sector featuring interior, exterior and high-performance customisation, as well as

the Motorsports and High Performance zone and the Supply Chain and Chain Store zone. Here, attendees explored the latest aftermarket trends and delved into new business models for the proliferating service and chain store segment.

Other sectors included Parts and Components, Electronics and Systems, Accessories, Repair and Maintenance and REIFEN (Tyres and Wheels).

Automechanika Shanghai 2019 also marked an increase of international participation across the board. Overseas exhibitor participation rose by four percent with representation from a total of 46 countries and regions. Exhibitors from Belarus, Lithuania and Saudi Arabia returned to the fair as Kazakhstan and Macau made their show debut.

There were also a number of AAAA member businesses amongst the international exhibitors.

There was an upward surge of visitor participation by six percent, reaching an impressive total of 159,728 delegates, while overseas attendance was also felt in force throughout the exhibition.

A total of 65 fringe programme events ran concurrently with the main show. Throughout the

fairground, each event received high praise from industry experts who took part and presented the latest global updates and local developments in the entire automotive supply chain.

Many new fringe events, reflecting key fair trends, were also welcomed for the first time, such as the debuting Body and Paint World Championships, Automotive Aftermarket Summit, Tomorrow’s Service and Mobility Innovation Technology Conference, China Auto Dealer Supply Chain and Financial Innovation Summit 2019 and International Bodyshop Industry Symposium (IBIS) China 2019 to name a few.

Furthermore, a lot of positive feedback was received from those in attendance according to event organisers.

“The 15th edition of the show exceeded our expectations in every capacity,” Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd Deputy General Manager, Fiona Chiew, said.

“It achieved a strong increment in both exhibitor and visitor numbers, thanks to the show’s broader coverage with the wider community and its key development areas in the market.

“Exhibitors in every sector provided a holistic insight into the industry’s future direction, which we are constantly incorporating into the show.

Not to mention, the scope of participating bodies continues to indicate Automechanika Shanghai’s influence and leading position in the automotive industry.”

The associated Motorsport and High Performance zone was a crowd favourite and amplified international racing competitions, modified parts and high performance vehicles. Repair and Maintenance also proved popular including workshop and diagnostics equipment, tools, body and paint, and car washing which reflects the needs of a maturing automotive industry.

For more information, visit www.automechanika-shanghai.com Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2020

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NEWS

NEW BRAND POSITIONING FOR CAPRICORN Australasia’s largest automotive cooperative has launched new branding When 12 Golden Fleece service station owners in Western Australia met to discuss the strengthening of their businesses by working together as a cooperative, they would never have envisaged that nearly five decades later they would be joined by more than 21,000 businesses across Australia and New Zealand who similarly recognised how they could be stronger together.

Capricorn says it has supported the Australian automotive aftermarket since the 1970s and it has done the same in New Zealand for more than two decades. If it has something to do with moving on wheels, Capricorn states it has been there, supporting Members to keep those wheels turning and improving their business success and sustainability.

To help its Members’ businesses thrive, Capricorn has introduced a myriad of supports covering access to suppliers and parts, operations and service data as well as financial assistance, business protections and industry networking events. These varied Capricorn services have one common goal – helping to make Members’ businesses stronger.

Capricorn says that protecting each Capricorn Member’s existence as a strong, independent business is foundational to advancing the Australian and the New Zealand automotive aftermarket repair industries as we head towards a technologically disrupted and demanding future.

The cooperative says the time has come to take the strong business relationships that Capricorn has formed with their Members and Preferred Suppliers to the next level of value and support, to make each of them stronger over a long and successful future.

To outline this clearly, a new brand positioning statement has been created that reportedly reflects Capricorn’s total commitment to providing services, support and value over the long term to all Capricorn Members and Preferred Suppliers: Stronger with Capricorn.

Stronger with Capricorn Capricorn explains that ‘Stronger with Capricorn’ is about more than just the strength that Australasia’s largest automotive cooperative has in its numbers, stating that it defines the strength and support that comes with an extensive network that has been designed by automotive repairers for automotive repairers.

It also signifies Capricorn’s strength in growing its Members’ businesses using the vast products and services currently provided, with new support services being constantly developed to meet current and future technological, financial and risk challenges.

Stronger with Capricorn is also said to reflect how this “unique and highly effective” automotive aftermarket industry-based cooperative supports its Members to face the future positively and with

continued business success, regardless of the changes being faced by the industry.

According to Capricorn’s Group Chief Executive Officer, David Fraser, the advantages of being a Capricorn Member have grown far beyond simply making their businesses easier to operate from purely a business transactional point of view.

“While making business easier for our Members is important, Capricorn provides far more than that.

Our new brand positioning outlines Capricorn’s unique ability to champion Member business improvement by leveraging our extensive and Member exclusive products and services,” David said.

“Supporting our Members’ businesses and helping to make them stronger is fundamental to ensuring a positive and sustainable future.

Making your business Stronger with Capricorn is without a doubt the major advantage of being a Capricorn Member.”

The new Stronger with Capricorn brand positioning will be visible across all Capricorn online and print media advertising along with promotional documentation during 2020.

A detailed video has been produced to further outline Capricorn’s new brand positioning statement, which can be viewed online at www.capricorn.coop

CTEK AND CADEX FORGE PARTNERSHIP The partnership is reportedly set to “redefine automotive battery diagnostics” CTEK Sweden AB, a leading global brand in battery management solutions, and Cadex Electronics Inc, a leading provider of Battery Diagnostic Solutions, has announced what it calls a “ground-breaking strategic partnership.”

The companies say this agreement will “see two technological pioneers join forces to bring a revolutionary new approach to battery testing in the automotive industry.”

With a focus on OEMs and professional independent and dealership workshops, the partnership will reportedly deliver new charging, maintenance and testing solutions to give customers the most efficient, accurate and reliable battery test equipment available.

The patented second generation SPECTROTM test engine, developed by Cadex, will be right at the heart of a wide range of innovative diagnostic products. The two companies say they will bring their technical and market expertise together to 10

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2020

create a family of innovative diagnostic products around this “ground-breaking SPECTROTM Technology.”

“Battery testing is an area of focus for us, and we were looking for a partner with the same appetite for innovation as we have,” CTEK Global Director, OE, Henk Lubberts, said.

“Cadex has a proven track record of excellence in a wide range of applications where precision, quality and reliability are paramount. They are the perfect match for CTEK because they share the same core values and the same innovative approach to new technology.”

“CTEK has unrivalled expertise in the automotive battery charging and maintenance market, and a reputation for cutting-edge products and flawless execution,” Cadex Chief Operating Officer, Markus Pauli, said.

“In Partnership with CTEK we will be ideally set up to integrate the revolutionary SPECTROTM

technology into a suite of diagnostic products and deliver them into the automotive industry.

“We are excited to be partnering with CTEK to create a new standard in efficiency and accuracy for automotive battery testing.”

“It’s very much a mutually beneficial relationship where we can share our expertise to enhance our current products. And it also gives us the opportunity to design, develop and manufacture exciting new products in existing and new markets. We are really excited about this partnership,” Henk said.

For more from CTEK, visit www.ctek.com

NEWS

TERRAIN TAMER CELEBRATES A special party has been held to celebrate an important milestone for Terrain Tamer Terrain Tamer has celebrated its 50th Anniversary with a lavish party for 150 staff, suppliers, customers and media in the heritage listed Grand Ballroom of the luxury Hotel Windsor in Melbourne.

The company was started in Moorabbin, in Melbourne’s South East, in 1969 by the late Don Kyatt, and Frank Hutchinson, who remains the Managing Director today alongside his son Brent, who took over as General Manager in 2018.

Still family owned, Terrain Tamer has now grown to have 15 branches worldwide, supplying a range of more than 40,000 4WD parts which it says are often developed to be stronger than their OE equivalent.

These parts are delivered to customers in more than 80 countries worldwide, including workshops, mines, farms, emergency services and recreational drivers.

Hosted by television personality Greg Evans, attendees were entertained by magician Matt Hollywood, as well as by speeches from both Frank – who recounted some of the funnier stories he had witnessed since starting the business – and Brent, who paid respect to the past 50 years while encouraging attendees to get excited about the next fifty.

To mark the occasion, the company also released a coffee table book that was gifted to each of the party’s attendees.

Titled “The Terrain Tamer Journey – 50 Years in the Making”, the book provides a retrospective look back at some of the key moments, people and innovations that have contributed to the company’s history over the past half-century, and celebrates the continuing success of the Terrain Tamer brand.

For more information, or to purchase a copy of the Terrain Tamer book, visit www.terraintamer.com 12

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2020

ACL ON DISPLAY It has been a busy few months for ACL ACL was busy in November, December and January exhibiting at all of the major Northern Hemisphere Tradeshows during the peak tradeshow season.

The travelling roadshow started in early November in Las Vegas for SEMA and AAPEX before ACL moved on to Cologne, Germany for the Professional Motorsport World Expo in midNovember.

It then returned to the USA in December for the Performance Racing Industry (PRI) show in Indianapolis before finishing up in Birmingham, England, in January for the Autosport Engineering Tradeshow.

ACL General Manager Chris Brooks attended all of these tradeshows and advised that the majority of ACL’s sales revenue is derived from Northern Hemisphere markets.

“It is critical that we exhibit at all major tradeshows to show case our products and more importantly, provide the opportunity for our customers to engage directly with us,” Chris said.

“It is an invaluable process in gauging customer

satisfaction and gaining valuable market intelligence.

“With 2019 being the 70th anniversary of engine bearing manufacture in Tasmania, the tradeshow season had special significance for us.”

During the recent tradeshow season, ACL released its new RSAG20 RACE Performance Engine Bearing Application Guide.

The new guide includes additional features that ACL says make it a must have for the performance engine builder.

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

DBA PRODUCTS SHOWCASED AT SEMA A new look and stand were unveiled by DBA at the recent SEMA show in Las Vegas With over 40 years’ experience servicing Australia and the world, DBA says it highlighted its array of much-loved street to performance oriented brake rotors, its new and improved range of performance brake pads and its new line of brake fluids – completing a triple entente of braking consumable solutions for automotive retail outlets and workshops.

Specifically, within the performance rotor range, DBA showcased its Australian developed and manufactured 5000 Series, with a clear focus on providing direct-replacement solutions for the performance driver – whether it be on or off road.

General Manager of Operations at DBA, Phillip Joseph Jnr, explains that whilst upgrading your braking system within the off-road circles is well known and paramount, the off-road market is lacking the awareness – especially when the vehicle’s GVM is increased.

“There’s no question that the off-road, 4×4, SUV and European market is booming within Australia and the rest of the world,” Phillip said.

“We are buying bigger and bigger vehicles and doing more with them – taking them on and off-

road with plenty of accessories, living necessities and passengers.

“The problem is the average driver doesn’t really consider their brakes in this situation with all that extra weight.

“That’s where our performance rotors, pads and fluids come in; a no-fuss, bolt-on solution to keep it simple, safe and high performing.”

DBA has been attending the SEMA show for over 15 years and with offices and distribution to over 30 countries, the show proves to be an important fixture on its calendar to speak to Australian and international customers alike.

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

NEWS

TITLE HAT-TRICK FOR LIQUI MOLY For the third consecutive time, ‘Sport Auto’ readers have voted Liqui Moly as the best oil brand In the German magazine ‘Sport Auto,’ everything revolves around sports cars with plenty of horsepower and readers attach correspondingly great importance to top performance.

Recently, the magazine’s readers have once again voted Liqui Moly as the best oil brand for the third year in a row.

“It is a great success for us to be continuously the best in a market populated by many brands,” Liqui Moly Managing Director, Günter Hiermaier, said.

“The readers of Sport Auto are very tech-savvy and are aware of the importance of lubricants for high-performance vehicles.”

Liqui Moly says that for these readers, motor oil is not just some liquid that, once filled in, is then out of sight, out of mind and simply does its job, but rather is absolutely essential for the operational reliability and value retention of the vehicle.

This reliability is particularly important in motorsport. After all, the oil in racing conditions

is exposed to the highest loads and must demonstrate its ability time and time again.

“Just as our oils prove themselves on the race tracks, our brand has to prove itself every day in the workshop, in the car dealership, in the specialist trade – wherever our products are available,” Günter said.

Liqui Moly says that despite the numerous readers’ choice victories in various media over the past year, it does not take success for granted.

“It’s just like being a motorsport team. Success is only possible if everyone does their best at all times,” Günter said.

With around 4,000 items, Liqui Moly offers a global range of automotive chemicals including motor oils and additives, greases and pastes, sprays and car care, glues and sealants.

Founded in 1957, Liqui Moly develops and produces exclusively in Germany where it says it is the “undisputed market leader for additives where it is repeatedly voted as the best oil brand.”

The company sells its products in more than 120 countries and in 2018, generated sales of €544 million (approximately AUD901 million).

For more information, visit www.liqui-moly.de

GROUND-BREAKING RESEARCH BEHIND NEW AUTOMOTIVE FLAMMABLE REFRIGERANTS GUIDE World-first study results in free guide to help automotive technicians work safely with flammable refrigerants A new guide on how to work safely on vehicles where it is known or suspected that flammable refrigerants may be present is now available for free download.

The document is the result of a ground-breaking project between Refrigerant Reclaim Australia, automotive thermal and electrical trade association VASA and GHD Engineering.

It covers topics including legal matters related to refrigerant classifications, dangerous goods, work health and safety, hazardous areas and working with flammable refrigerants, including what to do if a system contains a flammable refrigerant classified A3 (high flammability) or A2L (mild flammability). Handling mixtures of non-flammable and flammable refrigerants is also covered. The end of the document includes a workshop safety checklist and risk assessment worksheet to use when flammable refrigerants are encountered.

During the early research stage of this project, it became clear to GHD Engineering that it would have to conduct a series of world-first studies

to establish the number of vehicles containing flammable refrigerant that can occupy a workshop and safe exclusion zones for venting and vacuum pumping of A3 and A2L refrigerants, or in a hose leak scenario.

The project could not have been completed without the assistance of Queensland-based VASA member workshops Gympie Auto Air, Mr Cool and SuperCool Southport.

“Since 2013, car manufacturers have been switching to more environmentally friendly A2Lrated mild-flammability refrigerants in new models that leave the factory with air-conditioning systems properly engineered to minimise any flammabilityrelated risks,” VASA President, Ian Stangroome, said.

“An issue that has emerged in recent years is the charging of A3-rated high-flammability refrigerants into existing automotive air-conditioning systems that were never designed to mitigate these elevated risks, in some cases without proper labelling.

“There has until now been no properly researched

advice on the safest way to work with vehicles using flammable refrigerants – especially those which have been retrofitted – from a practical, OH&S and legal point of view.

“We are very proud to be publishing this rigorously researched safety guide for the benefit of all automotive technicians in Australia, who will at some point inevitably encounter a vehicle charged with flammable refrigerant.”

Automotive technicians, service advisors and workshop managers are invited to download the Flammable Refrigerants and Safety in Automotive Applications guide for free from www.vasa.org.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2020

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NEWS

THE CHANGING WORLD OF THE INDEPENDENT WORKSHOP As we move forward into a new year (and decade), it seems a good time to explore some of the trends that are going to impact independent workshops through the year ahead Steering clear of the well-known shift to Utes and SUVs, ACA Research has pulled out four trends that we feel workshops should be considering.

1. Demand for independent servicing and maintenance will continue to grow This validates the optimism reflected in the AAAA 2019 workshop study, where almost half of the mechanics ACA Research spoke to predicted growth in the year ahead. While this is a positive result, we’re coming at it from a direction that may be a bit less intuitive. As we’ve seen in the news, new vehicle sales dropped sharply in 2019, with roughly 90,000 less vehicles sold compared to 2018.

Now, if people aren’t buying new vehicles, that means they’re buying second hand, or holding onto their existing ones. Either way, those vehicles will either be out of, or coming out of warranty.

Additionally, even if people are buying newer second-hand vehicles that are still under warranty, they’ve got less of a connection to the OEM, and are ultimately less likely to end up in a dealer workshop.

Either way, this works well for independent workshops, because we know that these owners are more likely to turn to their local mechanics with their servicing and maintenance needs.

2. Workshops will become more diverse Workshops have traditionally been seen as confronting environments (particularly for female customers). Knowing however that women are heavily involved in servicing decisions, it has never been more important for workshops to cater to this customer base.

Looking at this from another perspective though, what does this mean when we’re looking for new employees? As ever, they need to be friendly, respectable, and an expert in their field, but they

also need to be relatable in order to generate positive rapport and trust.

To this end, while more than three quarters of the automotive workforce is male (as stated by the Workplace Gender Equality Agency), many workshops are starting to recognise the value of female mechanics. We expect to see more of a push in this direction as workshops look to reassure customers that they do belong in your business.

3. Workshops will need to be more creative to retain good employees Alongside the increased volume, the work is becoming more complex, meaning the level of expertise of mechanics needs to match up. This puts more pressure on workshops to invest in training and development, which can really hurt if mechanics then decide to move on. While this is a known issue, it will become even more challenging in 2020 as competition for labour increases.

As with other industries, employers are therefore having to think more creatively about what they can offer employees to keep them engaged. Flexible working conditions, and structured training and progression opportunities will always be important to help them remain motivated and fulfilled in their work, but shifting the dial on culture is also increasingly recognised as a way to retain quality staff.

We’re seeing workshops introducing simple practices such as creating support networks/buddy systems, treating employees fairly, reviewing pay structures, and fostering a culture of inclusivity to help hang on to those key members of their team.

4. Greater access to vehicle data will transform the independent workshop sector While our final trend might take longer to work its way through the industry, it has the potential to really shake up the independent workshop sector.

In 2019, after many years of AAAA advocacy, the federal government announced it would introduce mandatory data-sharing law, requiring vehicle manufacturers to make a wide range of service and repair information available to independent workshops for purchase, in the same form as it is shared with their franchised dealership networks.

Whilst a lot of work is being done behind the scenes to set out how this will work in practice, access to manufacturer data will see independent workshops continue their shift towards softwarebased, more complex diagnostic work for customers, and ultimately mean that they don’t need to send business elsewhere.

ACA Research will work with AAAA to explore some of these areas in more detail in the 2020 AAAA Automotive Workshop Research, and we look forward to sharing the results at Autocare, and in future articles.

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

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

TAPA 2020 TO GO INTO HIGH GEAR The Thailand International Auto Parts and Accessories Show (TAPA 2020) will be held in Thailand across April 2 – 5, 2020 Thailand is the world’s 12th largest Automotive Production base and also a leader for auto parts and accessories in ASEAN. TAPA 2020 organisers say it is the biggest auto parts and accessories show in the ASEAN region and this year is proud to present under the theme “Clean Innovation for The Future;” the development of the future generation 14

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2020

which focuses on being highly efficient and environmentally friendly.

More than 500 leading auto parts and accessories products and 10,000 visitors around the world are expected to participate in the show.

global sourcing hub of auto parts and accessories.

Organisers say it is the platform for technology innovation in the auto parts and accessories industry which reaffirms Thailand’s position as a

For more information, please visit www.thailandautopartsfair.com or contact the Thai Trade Centre, Sydney at thaitradesydney@gmail.com

NEWS

DRIVING AUTOMOTIVE INNOVATION THROUGH NEW GRANTS Grant applications close February 24 In December the Morrison Government announced it is investing further in the future of the Australian automotive industry with $4.5 million in grant funding for innovative new projects.

Applications for the second round of the Automotive Innovation Lab Access Grants (AILAG) program are now open and close on February 24.

The grants will support businesses across Australia to undertake automotive product design, development and testing at specialised facilities.

Minister for Industry, Science and Technology, Karen Andrews, said the grants are part of the Government’s ongoing efforts to back the automotive and advanced manufacturing sectors.

“The grants will help businesses advance their technical capabilities and get their products to market sooner, enabling Australian businesses to grow and create new jobs,” Minister Andrews said.

“Automotive manufacturing is a massive industry, supported by complex international supply chains. In such a fast-paced global market, it only takes a small innovation from an Aussie business to generate a huge opportunity.

“We know there are some great businesses working on new automotive products, and these grants will help them access the expertise and facilities to bring those product ideas to life.”

Businesses can receive up to $200,000 in matched funding for eligible project costs.

Eligible project costs include design, prototype and testing activities at established commercial and research facilities and Automotive Innovation Labs.

AILAG is a key element of the Government’s $100 million Advanced Manufacturing Fund, supporting Australian workers and businesses to move into new areas of growth in advanced manufacturing.

Program applications close on 24 February 2020.

Applications can be made at www.business.gov.au/AILAG 16

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2020

RYCO FILTERS RECOGNISED The company was heralded by the Australian Packaging Covenant Organisation Ryco Filters was recently awarded as a 2019 Award Winner by the Australian Packaging Covenant Organisation (APCO) in the Machinery and Hardware Sector category.

Ryco Filters says this prestigious award recognises the commitment it has demonstrated to the principles of the Australian Packaging Covenant.

APCO is a co-regulatory, not for profit organisation that partners with government and industry to reduce the harmful impact of packaging on the Australian environment. The APCO Packaging Sustainability Framework aims to provide a consistent and transparent framework for assessing and tracking packaging sustainability across organisations.

“We challenge ourselves internally and look to our manufacturing partners to understand our commitment to the covenant and ask more about the packaging materials, recycled content and consider the materials they propose for new packaging early on in the product development phase,“ Ryco Filters Engineering Manager and primary internal champion, George Dearden said.

“Sustainability is integrated throughout Ryco’s development process and includes collaboration across the supply chain to improve the use

Receiving the award on behalf of Ryco Group was Herman Hart (left) and Michael Reiffel (right), pictured here with APCO Board Member, Keith Chessell (centre).

of recycled content across both product and business-to-business packaging.

“The organisation is continually improving its packaging, guided by a company target to reduce packaging weight by 10 percent by 2020. Almost 50 percent of waste created on site was diverted from landfill.” “… the team have invested a lot of effort over the past decade to the improvement of packaging throughout the supply chain and we are very proud to have this achievement recognised by APCO. A great credit to all the behind the scenes work,” Ryco Filters Executive General Manager, Stuart Chandler, said.

For more from Ryco Filters, visit www.rycofilters.com.au

DRiV MONROE SPRINGS CYCLE TEAM RAISES FUNDS The Australian DRiV Monroe Springs Cycle Team has a lot to be proud of Monroe’s Darren Bender and Gareth Jones were joined by friend Duncan Toombs to take part in the “Australian Great Cycle Challenge” in October of 2019.

This event is a national Children’s Medical Research Institute (CMRI) fundraising initiative held nationwide to raise funds to give children the chance at a brighter future through the search for better treatments and cures.

The DRiV Monroe Springs team joined the fight against childhood cancer, which is the largest killer of children in Australia, where over 600 Australian children are diagnosed annually, and three die every week.

Team Captain, Darren Bender, a Leading Hand of the Monroe Springs Maintenance Department, led the charge along with Gareth Jones, the Monroe Springs Plant Manager. The team rode a

total of 1,362km during October, raising $6,3k.

Across Australia, more than 13,000 riders cycled for more than 2.4 million kilometres during the 2019 event, raising $4.3 million. Over the past six years, a total of 55,774 riders have ridden over 13 million kilometres, raising $16 million in support of this program.

“We are all very proud of the DRiV Monroe Springs team effort in the 2019 Australian Great Cycle Challenge, which will help save children from this terrible disease,” Monroe Springs Plant Manager, Gareth Jones, said.

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

NEWS

OPUS IVS ACQUIRES AUTOENGINUITY The acquisition of AutoEnginuity will further enhance DrivePRO vehicle coverage for nearly all vehicles sold in the Australian market In January, Drew Technologies (Drew Tech) an Opus IVS division company, acquired USbased AutoEnginuity for a purchase price of approximately USD 20 million (approximately 29 million AUD) on a cash-free and debt-free basis.

All conditions for completion of the acquisition of AutoEnginuity have been met.

AutoEnginuity, founded in 2003 and headquartered in Mesa, Arizona, has developed into a leader in advanced aftermarket automotive vehicle diagnostics software and associated vehicle make/model coverage for 56 vehicle brands, including all important US, European and Asian brands.

The combined Opus IVS companies serve an existing customer base of 50,000 automotive repair shops globally, by providing market leading

vehicle diagnostics and vehicle communication offerings to address the trend of increased vehicle digitalisation and automation.

With the acquisition, AutoEnginuity becomes a subsidiary of Drew Tech, managed under the Opus IVS division. AutoEnginuity management signed multi-year employment agreements; all staff are expected to continue working under the Opus ownership.

This acquisition brings the total Opus IVS offices to seven, with US locations in New York, Michigan, California, North Carolina and Arizona; and others in the UK and Australia.

“We are excited about the acquisition of AutoEnginuity due to the company’s status as a leader in multi-brand advanced automotive diagnostics and it being widely used in the US collision scanning market. We see a great fit with our existing products and services in the Opus IVS division,” Opus Chief Executive Officer, Lothar Geilen, said.

“Building on Autologic’s European diagnostics technology and support services, Opus IVS can now expand its products and services lineup to cover all brands within the US market.

“I want to express a warm welcome to the employees at AutoEnginuity. We are looking

forward to having the AutoEnginuity employees become a part of the Opus family.”

Autologic Diagnostics opened Australian Operations in late 2012 with a focus on European Vehicle Diagnostic software and support. Opus acquired Autologic in June 2017 and brought together several Opus companies under the one division, Opus Intelligent Vehicle Support. Vehicle coverage expanded recently with the launch of DrivePRO diagnostic tool.

DrivePRO is said to include the very best vehicle software and hardware in the industry from Autologic, Drew Technologies and Farsight, all companies within the Opus IVS division. The acquisition of AutoEnginuity to join the family of diagnostic companies within the opus IVS division, will further enhance the DrivePRO vehicle coverage for nearly all vehicles sold in the Australian market.

For more information about AutoEnginuity, please visit www.autoenginuity.com; for Opus visit www.opus.global; and for Opus IVS please visit www.opusivs.com

REDARC APPRENTICE CELEBRATED William Farina recognised with Best Student/Apprentice Award Redarc’s William Farina was recently awarded the Best Student/Apprentice Award at the Electronics Industry Excellence Awards which formed part of the World Electronics Forum.

The event, which was held on Thursday the 5th of December, recognised individuals who have demonstrated achievement in a project or process development.

William’s nomination was based on the exceptional work he did as lead man for electronics and electrical in the recent Bridgestone World Solar Challenge.

William was tasked with designing the battery and battery management system of the TAFE SA solar car. It was the fourth year that William had worked with the TAFE SA solar car team.

William, who has been working at Redarc as an Electronic Assembler since February 2019, is halfway through his Diploma of Electronics and Communications Engineering through TAFE SA. During his time at Redarc he has demonstrated a

passion for electronics and problem solving and has become an integral part of Redarc’s OEM and Safety production team.

“William is an outstanding employee who thoroughly deserves this recognition, we are proud to have somebody of his calibre working for Redarc,” Redarc Engineering Manager and Defence Liaison, David Murfett, said.

“We look forward to watching him grow and continuing to embrace innovation and selfimprovement which we value so highly at Redarc.”

The Electronics Industry Excellence Awards formed part of the 2019 World Electronics Forum which was held at the Adelaide Convention Centre from the 4th to the 6th of December.

The awards focused on recognising individuals, teams and organisations that are doing groundbreaking work in electronics. Managing the awards were the Electronics Industry Development group who were tasked with appointing the judges of the award.

The purpose of the World Electronics Forum is to bring Adelaide-based electronic companies together with investors and CEOs from the world’s largest companies to enhance collaboration and investment opportunities.

For more information on the World Electronics Forum, visit www.wef-adelaide.com For more from Redarc, visit www.redarc.com.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2020

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FEATURE STORY

BUILD A BETTER BUSINESS IN 2020 Over the last five years, more than 100 independent workshops have joined the Bosch Car Service network 2020 is now in full swing and those personal New Year’s resolutions you may have made at the beginning of January, could now be somewhat questionable.

But what about your business resolutions?

• Are there areas in your workshop that are in desperate need for improvement?

• Do you wish for your workshop to be more structured?

• Do you dream of working on your business, rather than in it all the time?

• Don’t know where to begin?

Turning to Bosch Turning to Bosch to help you could be the new year’s resolution you didn’t know you needed.

Bosch explains that it is partnered with more than 13,000 workshops around the world and has reportedly created the largest independent network of premium expert workshops, known as the “Bosch Car Service” network.

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Specifically in Australia and New Zealand, there are approximately 200 workshops branded “Bosch Car Service.”

To their ever-growing customer base, they are known as workshops which provide quality workmanship and excellent customer service.

Servicing over 300,000 vehicles per year, the Bosch Car Service network of workshops are said to be true experts in the industry.

Bosch says that it understands that independent workshops rarely have first-hand information on what is going on in the industry and sometimes, the lack of resources and connections prevents them from keeping abreast of the latest developments. It says that this is why the Bosch Car Service network exists.

With a focus on the development of technical and business know-how, the Bosch Car Service concept addresses the issues independent workshops face on a near daily basis, so that (over time) they can gain that competitive edge that is required in today’s market.

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2020

FEATURE STORY

Are you ready to make some positive business improvements in 2020?

Bosch says it has always been committed to providing the Bosch Car Service network with the technical and business training, marketing, network, partner and operational support that is required for continued success.

“The iconic Bosch brand is well known for its quality. Soon after joining the network, I definitely noticed a change in customer behaviour towards my workshop,” Frank said.

Over the last five years, more than 100 independent workshops have joined the network to stay one step ahead of the rest.

“Our customers instantly relate our workshop to being of the same quality in the service and products that we provide for them. The brand definitely does drive new customers through to our business. Best of all, I have kept my business name.”

One of those workshops is run by Frank Spiteri out of Rincap in Milperra, New South Wales.

Frank added: “It’s nice knowing I have kept my identity but have had the support I need from

belonging to group that shares their stories. The changes made over time and guided by Bosch, certainly have helped to grow my business steadily. The workshop undertook many updates and I’m very proud of where it is today.”

The Bosch Car Service membership fee includes AAAA membership as well as the above support features.

To learn more about the network or to take the first step in energising your workshop with Bosch Car Service, Bosch invites you to visit www.boschcarservice.com.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2020

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PRODUCT R&D

THE STRONG, SILENT TYPE Milford’s Ult1Mate Next Gen Towbar is setting the towing world alight The new Ult1Mate Next Gen Towbar from Milford has already claimed a number of awards, including the ‘Most Innovative New Aftermarket Product’ award at the 2019 ‘Australian Auto Aftermarket Innovation Awards’ and the coveted Good Design award for Design Excellence.

Milford says that every aspect of the product has been thoroughly researched, designed and tested; making Ult1Mate Next Gen Towbars “the new gold standard in towing.”

From the beginning Ever since the introduction of the square hitch receiver style towbar more than half a century ago, Milford says most towbar manufacturers have sought to simply emulate this product design.

Featuring a removable tongue, the square hitch receiver style towbar has become the most dominant, popular market design; more-or-less making the traditional/standard towbar with its permanently fixed hitch completely redundant.

Inherent in the square hitch receiver style towbar design format is the over generous tolerancing difference between the square hitch and receiver tube. These dimensional tolerances are responsible for the annoying rattle you hear when fitted to your vehicle which can be a cause of great frustration for everyone that’s ever had a towbar fitted to their vehicle.

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Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2020

Innovating a better way Milford says it has a proud tradition of innovation and pioneering through a raft of breakthrough ideas and designs across its 50 years in business.

In keeping with this philosophy and to further build on its well established post graduate industry leadership program – a joint program in association with various internationally renowned tertiary institutions and research laboratories – the company says it sought to improve the square hitch receiver style towbar design; beginning with the development of a purpose designed, precision formed, receiver tube to overcome these shake and rattle issues.

With its precision fabricated square receiver hitch, designed specifically to snug fit the specially formed purpose built, hitch, Milford says this new innovation moves well past the idea of using traditional imperial tube stock to a more contemporary and exacting manufacturing requirement.

“We then sought to reinforce this high tolerance interface between the hitch tube and receiver tube with our patented, compression style, HitchHush end cap,” explained Milford Industries General Manager, Greg Spooner.

“Stylishly completed with an embossed CNC

finished aluminium decal, Milford’s patented HitchHush protective end cap is made of the most durable, automotive grade, ultrahigh-molecular-weight polyethylene plastic; featuring an embedded, uniquely compositional, polyurethane cushion in the cap head.”

When used in conjunction with Milford’s range of purpose-built hitches – complete with its

PRODUCT R&D

integral hitch brace for highest load and superior appearance – the calculated compressional force exerted by the end cap against the receiver cover plate provides sufficient dampening to overcome even the slightest amount of movement.

“This anti-rattle technology has endured countless cycles of durability and Noise, Vibration and Harmonic testing in our Nata certified test laboratory,” Greg said.

“As a result Milford HitchHush delivers a smooth, silent trip, free of noise and annoying issues and troubles.”

Not satisfied with this substantially game changing improvement in itself, Milford explains it also sought to further innovate the square hitch receiver style towbar platform so as to achieve a level of higher performance and greater user confidence than ever before.

Of note and considerable concern during the research and development phase of the Ult1mate towbar project was the discovery that a number of high profile, modular towbar designs in the market already experienced infield detachment or loosening of fasteners during service.

Milford says that its patented, fully integrated Next Generation, Ult1mate towbar design features a High Tech Interlocking Design to ensure maximum strength and failsafe durability.

“Designed to provide load bearing reinforcement and interlocking connection between the main rail/ cross bar and outrigger chassis mounting plates, Milford’s High Tech Interlocking Design has been torture tested to achieve maximum load rating and durability in Milford’s world leading towbar test lab

and to loads exceeding 3500Kg even without the use of any fasteners whatsoever,” Greg said.

“All Milford Ult1mate Next Generation Towbars are of course however, securely fixed using aircraft grade locking fasteners for added peace of mind.

“In addition to being the most advanced, high tech and safest modular square hitch receiver style towbar on the market, our patented interlocking design also provides the added advantage of being the simplest towbar to install.

“Owing to the interlocking features and precision formed parts, Milford Ult1mate towbars are suitable for single person installation and rapid fitment.”

dedicated cartons with secure provisions for all elements and components.

“You can be guaranteed of receiving your Milford Ult1mate Next Generation Towbar in the best condition and owing to Milford’s security seal, you can have confidence that everything you need and want is right there in the box!” Greg said.

“Combined with our unique lifetime warranty (some terms apply), Milford Ult1mate Next Generation Towbars really are the new standard in towing.”

To find out more visit www.milford.one or call Milford’s friendly team on 1800 MILFORD.

Easy to follow, step-by-step instructions are delivered in full format HD video for each part included with every one of Milford’s Ult1mate Next Generation Towbars. Milford’s “industry leading” fitment videos can be viewed on your smart phone, tablet or other smart device, wherever you are, 24 hours a day.

Superior protection All Milford Ut1mate next generation towbars are protected by ArmorTex. “ArmorTex is our new, high tech, eco-friendly pretreatment and high performance, anti-corrosion, anti-mar coating,” explained Greg.

“In abrasion resistance testing, ArmorTex performs 650 times better than standard satin powder coat.”

To ensure your Ult1mate Next Generation Towbars arrive to you safely, the product is packaged in

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine Publisher, Cameron McLachlan, takes a look at the products driving the automotive aftermarket. cameron@aaaa.com.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2020

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PRODUCTS

A NEW DIRECTION REDARC RELEASES MORE TOW-PRO FOR THE KEY GUYS ELITE ACCESSORIES The Key Guys says it is expanding into diagnostic services From its roots as wholesalers of key housings and garage remotes, The Key Guys says it has burgeoned through the years and has recently launched a “game-changing” new venture.

Today, The Key Guys says it is a major player in the diagnostic and programming sector, specialising in automotive key duplication. It says its flagship product, the “ground-breaking” TKG Kiosk, lead the way as a complete package for on-site key duplication.

The new accessories are designed to further improve the installation of the Tow-Pro Elite Redarc has added to its range of Tow-Pro Elite accessories.

Tow-Pro Elite Mounting Kit The Tow-Pro Elite Mounting Kit (EBMK-001) simplifies the installation of the brake controller main unit under the dash of a vehicle.

It is designed to fasten the main unit with two M4 bolts either at right angles, in-line or diagonally across the main unit. It also features an M6 slot and nut/bolt allowing connection to the vehicle on a suitable M6 stud or M6 hole.

TPSI-008 Switch Insert Panel Redarc has also added an additional Switch Insert to its range. The Redarc TPSI-008 Switch Insert Panel is suitable for the Nissan Pathfinder R52 (2013-onwards), Navara NP300 (2015-onwards) and Mercedes-Benz X Class (2018-onwards), replacing the switch blank in the front console.

Its product range has now grown from keys only to encompass the machinery and accessories required to cut and program those keys as appropriate to the vehicle. Backed by what it calls unparalleled technical support, The Key Guys says it is also well-regarded for providing the efficient and accurate advice that is so crucial to their customers’ success.

The Key Guys’ latest expansion is The Key Whisperers, which offers off-site Immo Service conducted in their offices and dispatched back to the customer.

Thanks to 30 plus years of experience, the team is able to not only supply ready cut and programmed keys, but also assist in any ECU/ immobiliser situation, including repairs or reprogramming of ECUs and other immobiliser components.

Currently on offer are Mercedes EIS Service and immo PIN and key-cutting codes for Holden, Hyundai, and Kia, with a view to supply a broader range of codes in the near future. Always looking forward, the company says it even has its sights set on such services and ECU repair and airbag resetting.

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Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2020

Tow-Pro Switch Inserts provide the installer with an OEM looking remote head mount whilst maintaining ADR21 compliance when fitted correctly. Bulk packs can be ordered via part number TPSI-00* through your local distributor.

Part Number

Vehicle

TPSI-001

Universal

TPSI-002

Suitable for Toyota, Mitsubishi Triton

TPSI-003

Suitable for Holden Colorado

TPSI-005

Suitable for Isuzu D-MAX SX

TPSI-006

Suitable for Isuzu D-MAX LS/ MU-X

TPSI-007

Suitable for 70 Series Toyota

TPSI-008

Suitable for Nissan Pathfinder R52, Navara NP300 and Mercedes-Benz X Class

TPSI-009

Suitable for Mazda BT50

7A Encapsulated Protection Device Another recent release is the Encapsulated Protection Device (EPDK-001). It has been designed to fit in the trailer stop lamp feed to support the installation of the Tow-Pro Electric Brake Controller on vehicles where ‘back-feed’ of 12V (during Tow-Pro Manual Override) may interfere with the vehicle systems.

When installed correctly, the EPDK-001 ensures correct Trailer braking and Stop Lamp operation when the vehicle brakes or the Tow-Pro Manual Override is used.

It is suitable for General Purpose use and rated at seven Amps for both 12 and 24V applications. It is totally encapsulated with sealed connections.

It is also capable of supporting a maximum seven Amps at a maximum ambient temperature of 85°C.

A comprehensive range Redarc says these new additions join its comprehensive range of accessories for the TowPro range, which includes wiring kits, switch inserts, protection devices, remote head wiring kits and now a mounting bracket.

All accessories have been designed to simplify the installation of the unit into the vehicles.

The Tow-Pro Elite V3 was released in January 2019 and features improvements to the remote head and is compatible with new vehicle technology.

Redarc says it also maintains the simple operation it is resnowned for and industry-leading selectable modes of braking, ‘Proportional’ for highways and sealed roads and ‘User-controlled’ for off-road driving.

For more information on these accessories, visit www.redarc.com.au/trailer-brakes

PRODUCTS

441 GRADE STAINLESS STEEL “The first of its kind in Australia,” says Beaudesert Exhaust Beaudesert Exhaust says it is proud to introduce you to 441 Grade Stainless Steel which it says is the first of its kind in the country.

What is 441 grade stainless steel?

441 is a magnetic stainless steel which is therefore classified as a ferritic stainless steel.

Beaudesert Exhaust says while people sometimes create a perception that magnetic stainless steel is of poor quality, this is false and used in the right application, magnetic steel may even perform better than non-magnetic stainless steel.

441 grade stainless steel benefits

stainless steel material however has a minimum of 18 percent Chromium content, Beaudesert Exhaust explains, stating this is the same as 304Grade stainless steel.

Further, it says 441 grade stainless steel tolerates heat and stress cracks due to the Niobium and Titanium content it has. These elements in the material help formability and heat dispersion and higher malleability means vibration is absorbed more effectively, protecting welds and joins from cracking. The chromium content also gives it superior rust protection.

Beaudesert Exhaust says the properties of 441 tube make it hard to beat. It states that 441 grade stainless steel outperforms 409 stainless steel in both oxidation, corrosion resistance and high temperature strength.

Beaudesert Exhaust says its commitment to continuous improvement has let it investigate the benefits of 441 stainless steel, and that it is now very excited about the launch of its new ‘Rugged’ range of aftermarket 4WD exhaust systems in 441 Stainless Steel.

As in other types of stainless steels, it is the content of chromium that impacts corrosion resistance to the alloy. For example, 409 grade stainless steel material has a chromium content of no more than 11.75 percent. 441 grade

The ‘Rugged’ exhaust is a full stainless steel system including plates and brackets, reportedly making it the most resilient base-model exhaust system on the market. Beaudesert Exhaust says the quality of this range far exceeds the

expectation of the current market for its price point and is therefore “a leader in its class and the only range of its kind.”

For more information, call 07 5541 2767 or visit www.beauexhausts.com.au

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2020

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PRODUCTS

GRIPLOCKTIES Griplockties’ temperature and load rating reportedly makes it one of the highest rated ties on the market RP Motorsport Developments is an approved reseller for the innovative American designed and patented high-quality cable tie brand, Griplockties.

Originally designed to handle high vibration applications, Griplockties reportedly have a rated high tensile load of up to 70lbs/30kg.

They have a unique deep tooth engagement making for easy installation while allowing them to be releasable and re-installed until final positioning; which reduces setup time and also reduces the waste of non-releasable ties.

The custom patented technology DuPont material can handle the heat and pressure of high stress jobs, explains RP Motorsport Developments, which states that the double rubber lining makes it UV heat resistant to temperatures up to 210 degrees F/99 degrees C. The zip ties are made of black UV protected nylon and are used for automotive and aviation, military and law enforcement equipment, computers and

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networking equipment and other industries. RP Motorsport Developments says regular customers include Australian race car manufacturer Hyper Racer which uses these ties for their new car builds as well as national aircraft maintenance companies who use the ties during regular service periods.

While standard zip ties can damage wiring and paint, RP Motorsport Developments says Griplockties’ rubber liner insulates the parts to protect from this damage from occurring and additional cushioning material is not required.

Further, due to the “highest quality material” used and the slim and efficient design, they can be re-positioned and have an increased life span over normal cable ties.

Each pack contains 40 or 100 cables ties and two sizes are currently available – 12inch/304.8mm long, 7.5mm wide and 3.20mm thick; and 8.3inch/210mm long, 7.6mm wide, 3.0mm thick.

RP Motorsport Developments says it is

competitively priced to international resellers.

Individual packets are available for discount on multi-buy options which also saves on freight.

The company invites you to visit its website for options.

Postage/freight is not included in the RRP but can be arranged for an additional charge.

For more information, visit www.rpmotorsportdevelopments.com.au/ motorsport-products

PRODUCTS

ILLUMINATE YOUR WAY WITH LED LED Autolamps releases new heavy-duty rechargeable lamps Designers and manufacturers of high-quality LED automotive lighting, LED Autolamps, says it is excited to release a new range of heavy-duty rechargeable lamps.

Heading up the new range is the slim and compact PL175 penlight.

A perfect size to fit neatly in your pocket using the steel pocket clip and bright enough for quick and instant convenience, the light also features highly efficient COB LEDs, outputting 200 lumens for the main light, as well as a handy top torch for those hard to see places.

Hands-free operation is made simple with a super-strong bottom magnet that has the added flexibility of a 360° ball mounted base directing the light exactly where you need it.

Also available is the HH420 workshop inspection wand with a 250mm flexible neck extension as well as a super-bright, heavy-duty build.

Stand out features for this lamp includes, inbuilt into the base, a super strong magnet and a nifty fold-out hanging hook for added flexibility with hands-free operation.

A battery-saving economy mode with a powerful main light is all easily controlled by an on/off dimming wheel that gives you precise control of the light output from 50 lumens to a massive 700 lumens at full power. It also comes with a top-mounted torch for those hard to get at places.

The WTB100 and the WTB115 mini dual-beam rechargeable work lights have also been released.

LED Autolamps says that with these new lights, no task will be left unlit with dual 20-degree spot and 120° flood beams and four power levels.

Level One is the directed spot beam with 250 lumens and 400 lumens output, respectively.

The next three levels control the flood lamp with incredibly bright outputs of 100 lumens, 350 lumens, and 700 lumens for the smaller WTB100 as well 350 lumens, 700 lumens, and a whopping 1400 lumens for the larger of the two the WTB115.

Getting the light exactly where you need it is easier with a 180° tilt-adjustable base that not only is a super-strong magnet but has the

added benefit of a nifty handhold for added convenience, it says.

LED Autolamps says these lamps are an absolute must for your vehicle or toolbox, as they are small enough to fit in your pocket yet powerful enough for any lighting task you have at hand.

The entire range offers fast USB charging with a low power discharge and maximum brightness as well as built-in toughness with basic ingress protection, tough polycarbonate lens, and oil and chemical resistant bodies.

LED Autolamps explains they are super-efficient with a cool 6500K light and a CRI of over 80 crucial for correct colour rendering and are easily identifiable with bright red markings: perfect for a workshop, breakdown, vehicle, 4x4, marine, camping, home, or anywhere you need instant lighting.

Manufactured to CE and RoHS with no hazardous materials, the new rechargeable inspection lamp range offers a two-year peace of mind warranty and is presented in a single retail blister pack with USB charging cables included.

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

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PRODUCTS

JB WELD’S WINDSHIELD SAVER Saving more than a windscreen JB Weld says thanks to its Windshield Saver, costly windscreen replacements or repairs can be avoided.

In fact, it says any windscreen damage such as stone chips, bullseye or star shaped chips or any combination of these, up to 31.5mm in diameter, can be repaired easily and quickly using the patented repair system and resin.

The JB Weld’s Windshield Saver reportedly works on all laminated windscreens and diminishes the appearance of chips and stars.

The kit includes advanced repair resin, a vacuum syringe, applicator, curing strip, alcohol wipe, razor blade and detailed instructions.

Straightforward instructions are designed to take even the most inexperienced repairer through incremental steps across the repair process, starting with a thorough cleaning of the windscreen.

From there the user is drawn step-by-step through the process of preparing the windscreen with the supplied adhesive disc to section off the repair site and provide a firm mount for the pedestal applicator which serves as a guide for the repair resin.

The repair resin is then carefully squeezed into the guide and any remaining resin can be kept for further repairs. The resin tube is removed, and the syringe is then pressed into the pedestal and once secured into place, the plunger is pulled back to form a vacuum which draws the resin neatly into the chip, forming a perfect seal.

Specific and varied time periods with detailed instructions on how to use

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the syringe during these resting and curing times are provided, culminating in the final steps that lead to a solid repair.

During the final steps additional resin may be used to help smooth out the repair before the curing strip is applied and the vehicle is left in the sunlight for the final resin curing phase which can take as little as 15 minutes in sunshine. A supplied safety razor can be used after curing to clean up any excess resin on the glass.

JB Weld says its Windshield Saver is a dependable product which forms part of an internationally renowned stable of adhesives from “a brand that has built its fine reputation on providing high quality epoxy bonds.”

HPP Lunds is the Australian distributor for all JB Weld products of which there are 57 that bond metal, wood, plastic, glass and many other surfaces.

For more information, contact HPP Lunds on 1300 306 781 or sales@hpplunds.com.au

PRODUCTS

YOUR OIL NEEDS COVERED Unique Auto Parts has recently expanded its range of Carlube oils to suit even more makes and models In addition to supplying top quality new parts for Mercedes Benz, BMW, Mini, Audi, Volkswagen, Seat, Skoda, Peugeot, Renault, Citroen, Porsche and Volvo, Unique Auto Parts says it is the only Australian stockist of the high quality lubricants and fluids from Carlube.

While Carlube oils have recently changed their packaging, Unique Auto Parts says the products are still the same great OEM quality which are not only recommended for all modern vehicles, but have a specific focus on European makes.

The oils also reportedly come with approval from some of the world’s leading car manufacturers such as Mercedes Benz, Renault, Volvo and many others.

Unique Auto Parts says all Carlube oils not only meet the stringent requirements set forth by these car manufacturers but in many cases, surpass them, because they are all manufactured using the highest quality refined ingredients.

Unique Auto Parts claims to have all bases

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Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2020

covered with products available for application areas such as engine, transmission, differential, power steering and brake systems.

This includes low ash/low SAPS oil, fully synthetic and semi synthetic oils that are suitable for a wide variety of passenger and commercial vehicles.

In addition to stocking an extensive range of Carlube oils, Unique Auto Parts also stocks selected Bluecol coolants and a range of Carlube additives designed to clean and improve efficiency and performance. This includes fuel

system cleaner (petrol and diesel) and carburetor and engine cleaner.

Unique Auto Parts boasts five conveniently located branches around Melbourne, Brisbane and Perth each fully stocked with all these great products. Delivery is available from each branch and freight is dispatched Australia wide on a daily basis using what Unique Auto Parts says are the fastest and most efficient couriers.

To be connected to your nearest Unique Auto Parts branch, call 1300 864 864 or visit www.uniqueautoparts.com.au for more information.

PRODUCTS

NEW ICON SERIES HOSE CLAMP RANGE Premier Auto Trade has launched the new ICON Series range of Hose Clamps and accessories The new ICON Series Hose Clamp range offers a variety of clamp types including Perforated, Fuel Hose, Nut and Bolt, CV Boot, Solid Band, Spring Loaded, T-Bolt, P Type, Ear Type, Quick release, Multi-purpose and Universal Band, just to name a few.

A variety of clamp materials including Full and Part Stainless, 316 Stainless and Treated Steel are available, with a range of protective coatings including Rubber and Vinyl also available on some types.

The PAT range offers Hose Clamps in Trade Workshop Packs as well as Retail Pack combinations, including a Hose Clamp Multi‑Pack with a range of popular clamps in a convenient multi hang pack ideal for use in self-service and retail areas.

producing hose clamps since 1989, continually developing categories, technologies, and production capacity.

It offers the facilities to manage the entire manufacturing process on site including moulding, material surface treatments, rubber vulcanising, screw and bolt production and full assembly.

Developed by Premier Auto Trade’s leading product development team, with over 120 years industry experience, the ICON Series Hose Clamp range reportedly features precise engineering for correct operation, excellent durability, temperature stability and vibration resistance.

There is also a Merchandising system of tilt drawers which offers a range of popular clamp sizes, allowing for easy identification, access and refilling.

In partnership, Premier Auto Trade says it has developed the ICON Series Range of Hose Clamps to exacting standards, and manufacturing certifications include ISO 9001:2015 and IATF 16949:2016 auto industry, UPC approval from IAMPO, NF approval of France, CE approval of Europe and in 2015 BSCI approval from TUV.

The ICON Series range manufacturer has been

Premier Auto Trade says it has been able to

assemble the ICON Series Clamping products program to service the Automotive, Agricultural, Heavy Equipment and Marine industries.

The ICON Series also includes a range of Automotive Hoses, Fuel Pumps and Ignition Coils, and represents Premier Auto Trade’s heritage in quality automotive products, all covered by a twoyear, 40,000km warranty.

Premier Auto Trade distributes products throughout Australia via a network of specialised resellers and leading automotive groups.

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

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2020

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PRODUCTS

EARN MORE FOR DOING NOTHING Merchandise can bring in extra sales or offer great promotional or giveaway opportunities IQ Merchandising can supply a range of automotive related products you can display and sell in your customer waiting area.

On offer from IQ Merchandising is a range of both licensed brands and generic products, imported from Germany, which can brighten up your customer area and lead to extra sales for you.

Alternatively, the products can be used to decorate your walls or can be used as promotional items or giveaways for customers.

Some of IQ Merchandising’s licensed brands include Volkswagen, Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Harley-Davidson, Mini, Fiat, Vespa, Motto Guzzi and Goodyear as well as Route 66 and Coca-Cola.

The range includes quality metal signs in different sizes, storage tins, mint tins, key chains, thermometers, clocks, money boxes, ceramic and enamel mugs, magnets and coasters.

The products feature embossed retro/nostalgic designs, a theme which IQ Merchandising says is hugely popular at present, pointing towards retro designed cars like the Mustang, Mini and Fiat

500 and noting that movies like Ford v Ferrari and Once Upon a Time in Hollywood have also generated an enormous amount of interest in everything 1950s and 60s.

IQ Merchandising’s mint tins come in a large range of designs and are reportedly proven “huge sellers.” These tins can sit on your counter in a purpose made display unit and are ideal for impulse buying for car loving customers, it says.

The company’s signs are made in Germany from sturdy 0.5mm sheet metal and are pressed to sit off the wall (not flat) and then embossed to accentuate the design further.

Also on offer are a range of storage tins – hinged and air-tight clip-top – which are ideal for storage in the home or garage, as well as quirky re-usable money boxes which come in various nostalgic designs.

Across the range of brands are “Parking Only” signs and “Logo Evolution” signs and tins in different sizes. IQ Merchandising says these are proving very popular for owners to put in their garage or carport.

There is also the option to put your own branding on the IQ Merchandising Range, with the company stating it specialises in producing items with the same quality that Mercedes-Benz, BMW and Harley-Davidson demand.

It also has a complete range of display options from small counter display units for added impulse buying to a complete four-sided standalone spinner, which can be configured any way you want.

IQ Merchandising says that “last and most important, you will be pleasantly surprised with our prices.”

For more information, visit www.iqmerchandising.com.au or visit the team at Unit 32, 25 Huntingdale Rd, Burwood, Victoria, call Jim on 1300 881664.

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2020

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PRODUCTS

NOISE-REDUCING DAMPER Dayco’s Crankshaft Damper features on the award-winning FCA 3.6L eTorque V6 Pentastar Engine Dayco says it has underlined its pedigree by designing and manufacturing the crankshaft damper for the award-winning 3.6L DOHC 48V eTorque V6 Pentastar engine used in the Dodge Ram 1500 and 2020 Jeep Wrangler Sahara, at the 2020 Wards 10 Best Engines and Propulsion Systems competition which took place in Detroit (USA) on January 16.

The Dayco crankshaft damper is designed to reduce noise, vibration and harshness and it incorporates technology that maximises power system stability while minimising variations in belt tension, extending the lifespan of its associated components and improving the vehicle’s overall fuel economy. Using proprietary software, in conjunction with state-of-the-art commercial software packages, Dayco says it is able to virtually optimise and validate its products before the creation of prototype parts, thus enhancing their performance in full production.

Alongside its diverse power transmission portfolio, Dayco says it produces a broad range of driveline dampers, which are designed specifically to absorb linear, torsional or mixed vibration.

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Innovation and creativity, coupled with analytical and empirical validation tools, are reportedly key factors which distinguish Dayco as the technical leader in this field. The recessed belt damper (RBD), radial internal tube damper (Radial ITD) and the low frequency grommet damper (LFGD) are all examples of how the company is able to develop effective solutions for its many customers.

Dayco’s crankshaft damper for the belt starter generator (BSG) system on the winning eTorque Pentastar engine, helps the Ram 1500 light duty pickup achieve EPA certified 20 mpg City and 25 mpg Highway fuel economy. The damper mitigates vibrations caused by the stop-start system and allows smooth, quiet engine operation and, according to FCA, the BSG system helps the Ram 1500 achieve an 18 percent improvement in city and 10 percent in combined mpg, over the previous generation model.

Dayco also supplies dampers for some versions of the world-famous GM small block V8 engine, including the 6.2L V8 used in the Chevrolet Silverado that won the award in 2019. The

latest incarnation of the small block V8, the LT2 used in the all new eighth-generation Chevrolet Corvette, was also one of the Wards 10 Best Engines and Propulsion Systems competition winners this year.

This is the 26th year for Wards 10 Best Engines and Propulsion Systems, a competition created to recognise outstanding powertrain achievement, world-class technologies and engines or electric propulsion systems that really help sell the vehicle. To be eligible, a new or significantly modified engine or propulsion system must be on sale in a production vehicle during the first quarter of 2020, with a base price capped at $64,000 (USD).

For more information, visit www.dayco.com

PRODUCTS

BENDIX EXPANDS CONSUMABLES RANGE Bendix says its quality consumables are in daily use in workshops throughout Australia Today the Bendix range not only includes Bendix DOT 3 High Performance Brake Fluid and Bendix DOT 4 High Performance / Heavy Duty Brake Fluid but also Bendix Ceramasil Brake Parts Lubricant and a range of aerosol consumables.

Ceramasil Brake Parts Lubricant has been specially developed to overcome wear caused by the molecular interaction between two moving objects moving relative to one another. Whilst any grease will do the job temporarily, Bendix says this specially developed brake systems lubricant will last the life of the brake job, silencing calipers, resisting pressure cleaning and extreme condition and providing protection against friction, wear and corrosion.

Amongst the most recent consumable range extension is the Bendix Brake and Parts Cleaner, designed to rapidly remove brake fluids, oils, dust, dirt, grease and other contaminants from brake linings, disc pads, drums, clutch plates, rotors and so on. It can be applied without dismantling the brakes and also cleans other components and workshop equipment.

The new Degrease aerosol has been designed as a powerful multipurpose degreaser formulated to remove heavy grease from car and small engines, concrete floors, driveways and workshop surfaces.

A Multi-Use Penetrating and Lubricating aerosol is also an important part of the Bendix range.

Designed and developed as a heavy duty water dispersant it also assists in lubricating, protecting and starting wet engines, stopping squeaks and lubricating rusted parts.

Bendix’s Smooth White Lithium Grease Aerosol is an all-purpose lubricant which protects surfaces from abrading or scratching other surfaces and is ideal for lubricating bearings, hinges door catches plus many more uses around the home and garden shed. ‘Smooth’ is reportedly ideally suited to automotive, marine, agricultural, general industrial and household uses.

The Bendix Silicone aerosol has multiple uses providing the ideal protection for plastic, vinyl and rubber, sliding tracks, locks, fishing equipment, chain and moving belts in automotive, marine, household plus a host of general applications; while the new ‘Shine’ aerosol is the easiest way to shine tyres, mud flaps and bumpers not only providing the ultimate appearance but also preventing dirt from forming on the surfaces.

Now available from leading automotive and transport outlets nation-wide, Bendix says its quality special purpose consumables are designed to assist the trade and suit the broadest range of applications.

For more information on the new extensive range of Bendix Consumables, free call the Bendix Brake Advice Centre on 1800 819 666 or +61 3 5327 0211 from overseas (8am – 5pm Monday to Friday EST), email brakeadvicecentre@bendix.xom.au or visit www.bendix.com.au

ACS INTRODUCES NISSAN PATROL CONVERSION KITS The new kits have been developed in response to strong demand Australian Clutch Services specialise in developing performance clutch kits to suit vehicles that have had engine or gearbox conversions under the ACS performance brands, Xtreme Clutch and Xtreme Outback.

ACS has recently launched several new performance kits for popular conversions including a twin plate upgrade for GU Nissan Patrols that have been retrofitted with Nissan RB series engines. This is a common conversion for these vehicles due to the almost perfect crossover from the standard RD28 motor.

“Our new conversion kits for Nissan Patrols fitted with RB series engines have been developed due to high demand for these conversions in the market,” ACS Mechanical Engineer, Stewart Furze, said.

“Normally when we create specialised conversion kits, we build them bespoke to each customer’s requirements. However, as these conversions are so popular and nearly always utilise the standard gearbox setup, we have been able to develop an off-the-shelf kit that is ready to bolt straight into the vehicle.”

The performance clutch has been developed to provide a significant increase in torque capacity over the standard heavy-duty range of kits due to the exceptional performance potential in the RB motor.

“The kits are designed to be used with the RB series of engines which can easily produce in excess of 500hp and therefore require a specialised performance clutch to suit,” Stewart said.

“We have also introduced two different options depending on the intended vehicle use and performance goals.”

The two options include a 230mm twin plate organic for high horsepower street applications up to 1210 Nm of torque and a 230mm twin plate ceramic for motorsport applications requiring an even higher heat and torque capacity (up to 1830 Nm). The kits come complete with a lightweight alloy pressure plate, performance chromoly flywheel, release bearing, alignment tool and replacement bolts.

“Our performance upgrades and specialised conversions kits are well known around the world for torque capacity, durability and driveability and we are always on the lookout for new applications,” Stewart said.

For more information on the Xtreme Clutch and Xtreme Outback range of products as well as the new Nissan Patrol conversion kits, please visit www.australianclutch.com.au or call 1800 CLUTCH Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2020

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PRODUCTS

BEAT WORKSHOP GREASE Introducing the new Euca Laundry Powder range with Lemon Myrtle or Lavender Euca claims that its washing powder is great for cleaning oil, grease and other stubborn automotiverelated stains from mechanics’ overalls.

Euca is well renowned for using Australian Eucalyptus oils in nearly all Euca products. That’s where the name Euca comes from, being short for Eucalyptus.

The team at Euca says they are also aware that there are some great alternatives in essential oils that not only perform as well as Eucalyptus, but offer a distinctive change in your washing fragrance.

QUALITY: THE BEST WAY TO REDUCE COSTS Electric Life warns against cheap power window parts When choosing products for your workshop, Electric Life says choosing quality is the best decision you can make.

The company says this would help drive profits instead of wasting money on repeat labour costs from refitting parts over and over.

“It is generally not worth buying a cheap power window part just for the sake of saving the small difference in cost between a quality unit and a Chinese copy,” Electric Life Managing Director, Michael Cimino, said.

New products to the range include the Subaru Forester Window Switch, Liberty/Outback Gen 4 Window Switch, Impreza/WRX Gen3 and Tribeca window switches.

For the past 20 years, Electric Life says it has

Euca says it is proud to release the New Euca Laundry Powder range with Lemon Myrtle or Lavender which has been “tested, and tested again.”

BULL BARS FOR SUZUKI JIMNY GJ 2018+

It reports that changing the essential oil was no easy task, as being a powder it’s a tricky process to blend an oil and solid together.

Ironman 4x4 has released two new bull bars for the popular Jimny

This meant a lot of testing to make sure all the key points of the original Euca Eucalyptus Laundry powder were either met or surpassed.

Both a Commercial Deluxe Bull Bar and a Special Bull Bar have been released by Ironman 4x4 to suit the Suzuki Jimny GJ 2018+.

As always Euca is 100 percent soluble, grey water and septic system safe, ecologically friendly, contains no nasties to upset allergy sufferers and as always will clean and look after your washing machine.

Both bar types have been scanned using 3D technology to ensure a correct fit that is both accurate and stylish; are manufactured from premium grade materials, SPHC oil and pickled steel for maximum strength and highest resistance to rust with 360 degree robotic welds; and are designed and engineered to ensure airbag compatibility and ADR compliance.

Euca says it is also still “exceptionally concentrated” so you use less, which makes Euca such an economical and value for money Laundry Product which saves you money.

The product comes packed in cardboard outers made from recycled paper, plus Euca’s unique corn starch liner bag to hold the powder which will break down in soil or compost. You can put into the normal waste as it will decompose in landfill and either use your current Euca Plastic tub to refill or use your own container.

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Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2020

been proud to offer a window regulator repair service.

“Through our repair service, we have been able to help clients who have experienced the challenge of obtaining new or used window regulators, or have found replacing broken units to be too expensive,” Michael said.

For more information, call 02 9602 1811, email sales@electriclife.com.au or visit www.electriclife.com.au

They are both also winch compatible using a unique mounting cradle, removing excess weight from the bull bar; and feature matt textured black powdercoating.

Both bars use factory Fog /DRL lights (not supplied) and include LED parker and indicator lights while there is provision for headlight washers. Both are also compatible with factory flares and feature integrated spotlight or light bar mounts and boast a high lift jacking point.

The Commercial Deluxe Bull Bar (part number BBCD070) features twin aerial mounts with a slotted design to allow for quick installation and removal of aerials, mobile signal booster and/or high vis sand flag. The Jimny Special Bull Bar design (part number BB5070) features a stylish yet robust single loop design allows for the mounting of driving lights or a single light bar.

For more information, visit www.ironman4x4.com

PRODUCTS

CARRY MORE With Old Man Emu’s new 200 Series Stage 2 GVM Upgrade When you are planning a trip, the who and the where is often front of mind. But ARB asks, have you considered the how?

Adding additional weight to a vehicle could impact the comfort, steering and braking of the car.

When touring, whether it be long-term or a weekend trip, it’s important to be able to pack whatever you need so nothing gets left behind.

For those planning to purchase a new LandCruiser 200 but wondering how to stay within the constraints of the GVM, ARB explains that Old Man Emu has just released a new 4,015kg Stage 2 GVM upgrade.

The 200 Series LandCruiser is a large, powerful passenger wagon with extremely good off road and touring capabilities, frequently used for long distance touring and heavy duty towing duties.

With a noticeably large front to rear rake from the factory, and a wide breadth of ability, OME engineers focussed on providing multiple ride height options to suit a variety of uses, as well as increasing load carrying capability and improving control and handling.

A large range of springs, struts and shocks have been developed to address the large rake, provide numerous ride height options and cater for a range of vehicle setups and engine variants. To further fine tune front ride heights, a trim packer has also been developed.

Two stages of GVM upgrade are available for the 200 Series LandCruiser: stage one features a 300kg increase and stage two has a 665kg increase over factory GVM.* Old Man Emu suspension kits for the 200 Series LandCruiser are reportedly suitable for all model variants.

Available now, ARB says 200 Series owners should talk to their local ARB store or stockist to find the solution that is right for them.

For more information, visit www.arb.com.au *Please note: Old Man Emu GVM upgrades are only available on new and unregistered vehicles. Already registered vehicles fall under the jurisdiction of their state authorities. The need for GVM upgrades post-registration should be discussed with your local ARB State Office, as regulations differ between states and other requirements may be imposed locally.

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2020

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PRODUCTS

INTRODUCING MAGNAT 55 A new electro-hydraulic two-post lift from Autopstenhoj Lift specialist Autopstenhoj says that with the new Magnat 55 it has succeeded in bringing another real all-rounder to the starting line.

Adding the lift to its product portfolio has also closed the gap in the field of its hydraulic twopost lifts with a capacity of 5.5 t.

The company says this lift gives optimum access to the vehicle, whether it is a small passenger car or a big transporter, while the low drive-through

width of 2,900mm allows the cars to be lifted rapidly and minimises unnecessary shunting. In addition, the extra flat design of the arms ensures a low minimum height.

The lift is equipped with a high quality pump unit for smooth motor running and quiet, pleasant operation.

Autopstenhoj says its proven mechanic synchronisation device guarantees safe lifting, as does its electrically operated safety rachet system which does not require expensive compressed air.

The portal height can be altered to + 250mm.

The standard contact strip of the traverse works as a safety device for the lifting of tall cars.

If the contact strip is activated during lifting, this safety device stops the process, so that the car does not get damaged at all. The alarm signal of the pushbutton control unit is another contribution to industrial safety.

Designed for different voltages, Autopstenhoj says its lift can be used flexibly and its large program of extra pads is also compatible.

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Benefits and features: • • • •

Double telescopic front and rear flat arms Automatic arm locking system Low minimum height Suitable for passenger cars up to big vans and transporters • Adjustable end stop and upper protection bar • Electrical safety ratchet system, no expensive compressed air required For more information, contact STENHØJ Australia via sales@stenhoj.com.au

PRODUCTS

BLOCKLEY TYRES OF UK Stuckey Tyre Service has been appointed as Sole Australian Distributor for Blockley Tyres of UK Blockley Tyres began by first producing the original 3S pattern for Vintage Bugatti cars.

Since then it has “massively” increased its range to include two beaded edge patterns, three bias ply patterns and more recently, three radial ply patterns.

The range covers vehicles from the earliest days into the 1980s with many difficult to find sizes.

Currently Blockley says it produces the highest quality correct beaded edge range for the early cars, through to straight sided, cross ply and a range of truly awesome radials.

In addition there are a few whitewall radial sizes and Blockley are reportedly also one of the very few companies to also produce a millimetric size tyre.

Every Blockley is a genuine street tyre, but due to the build quality and specifications are also said to be suitable for arduous conditions and high speed performance.

Cars on Blockleys have won outright at Pebble Beach concourse on the one hand, and won hundreds of trials, rallies and races on the other.

In total, the Blockley Tyres range comprises 53 different tyres and Stuckeys now has stocks of all these new (and old) tyres heading its way and due to arrive just in time for the Phillip Island Classic in March.

Stuckey Tyres says there are very few outlets for

Blockley worldwide and so it is proud to have been chosen as a supplier.

Further, it says the addition of the Blockley name to its Vintage and Classic tyre range creates the largest range of quality tyres for Vintage and Classic cars in the Southern hemisphere.

Stuckey Tyres now has stock available in Michelin, Pirelli, Avon, Dunlop, Vredestein, Goodyear and Goodrich brands, with Blockley soon to follow.

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

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2020

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PRODUCTS

SUSPECT TRANS SPEED SENSOR? Goss’ aftermarket transmission speed sensors range suits more than 800 vehicle applications With somewhere between 60 to 100 sensors controlling today’s modern vehicles, it is imperative to have a quality product, extensive range and competitive pricing, says Goss.

able to calculate the optimal gear for efficient driving at that speed. If the desired gear and the actual gear do not match, then the ECM may log a diagnostic trouble code (DTC).

The company says it offers all of these things and more and has recently added Transmission speed sensors to its ever expanding range.

Common symptoms of a faulty sensor include:

Transmission speed sensors are used to perform a contactless scan of a gear or trigger wheel in the transmission and generate an electronic digital signal proportional to the speed of rotation.

There are commonly two speed sensors that work in conjunction to provide accurate transmission data to the vehicle’s (ECM) engine control module or (TCM) transmission control unit.

The first is known as the input shaft speed (ISS) or primary sensor. This sensor is used to monitor the speed of the transmission’s input shaft. The second sensor is the output shaft speed (OSS) or secondary sensor. If either of these two sensors falls out of alignment or experiences electrical issues, it can affect the operation of the entire transmission.

When the ECM receives the correct information from the transmission speed sensors it is then

• • • •

Harsh or irregular shifting Cruise control inoperative Check engine light illuminated Speedometer inoperative

Transmission speed sensors can malfunction for a number of reasons including: • Physical damage to the sensor • Poor connection between the connector plug and sensor • Corrosion • Electrical failure Without a valid speed signal from a working sensor, the ECM will not be able to correctly control the shifting of gears within the transmission. This may cause the transmission to shift quicker or harsher than normal. It’s also common that a problem with these sensors can impact the shift timing, extending the interval between transmission shifts.

An automatic transmission is hydraulically controlled and designed to shift smoothly. When the transmission shifts hard, it can damage internal components including valve bodies, hydraulic lines, and in some cases mechanical gears.

If you have discovered a faulty transmission speed sensor, Goss says its range of aftermarket transmission speed sensors is now available and suit more than 800 vehicle applications and four million vehicles on road, offering the aftermarket “a truly genuine alternative when searching for quality products.”

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

NEW BRANDING A SUCCESS CRC believes its new packaging has made product selection easier for the end user CRC Industries Australia says it identified the need to create a cohesive new-look for its popular range of aerosol products to offer not only a striking new appearance but also clear identification of each product’s use to make selecting the right product for the job that little bit easier.

Last year CRC Australia rolled out new branding and product packaging for its entire automotive, industrial and electrical aerosol range.

The new look aerosol packaging has been met with great enthusiasm by the end user as it brings focus to the heritage of CRC Industries Australia and its high-quality products and specialist solutions, while looking better than ever and making product selection quick and easy.

The new branding was developed to create consistency of design across diverse product categories, making the products instantly identifiable as being part of the CRC family.

The new design brings together the same iconic CRC logo and colours that have been associated 50

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2020

with the brand’s core identity for more than 50 years with clean contemporary design elements allowing greater visual impact and ease of identification.

At the same time, the new packaging maintains a clear differentiation between industry categories, with red representing the industrial and auto markets and blue being the colour of choice for the electrical sector as it always has.

An information tab has also been included at the base of each can to clearly explain the product’s purpose.

No changes were made to product part numbers or barcodes to ensure no disruption for those ordering the product, and all consumers can look forward to the same product delivered in a fresh new can design which is a reflection of CRC’s sense of purpose and commitment to innovation and reinvention.

The new stylish and contemporary packaging for the CRC Aerosol Range allowed CRC Industries Australia to ensure consistency of its brand and messaging in the market place while helping

customers to quickly and easily identify the right product for their job.

CRC Industries Australia has experienced positive customer and stockist feedback as well as increased sales while building brand equity.

It is CRC Industries Australia’s belief that this new packaging has not only helped it to connect with loyal customers but has also attracted a new generation of users.

For more information visit www.crcindustries.com.au

INNOVATIVE PRODUCTS

2019 AUSTRALIAN AUTO AFTERMARKET INNOVATION AWARDS AAAA Most Innovative New Packaging Award The competition for the AAAA Most Innovative New Packaging award was certainly competitive with 13 entries from 12 AAAA members. In this issue, we take a look at the entrants who vied for this award including the winning Nulon EZY-SQUEEZE packaging.

For more information about the Australian Auto Aftermarket Awards, please visit www.aftermarketawards.com.au

Nulon: Nulon EZY-SQUEEZE – WINNER Nulon’s EZY-SQUEEZE range of gearbox, differential and transmission fluids with its flexible one-litre pouch packaging and patented applicator is the first of its kind in the Australian Automotive Industry. The packaging design offers advantages over standard HDPE bottles including ease of use, less waste, quicker than hand pumps and uses less plastic. In testing Nulon found pouches to be more durable than HDPE bottles. The filler tube and bracket allows the user to bend the tube at an angle to easily insert and access the fill point. The product also recently won the 2020 WorldStar packaging award.

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

Australian Clutch Services: New ACS Clutch Kit Packaging Australian Clutch Services’ new packaging for ClutchPro, Xtreme Clutch and Xtreme Outback provides improved efficiency and protection during transport. The new packaging includes 3 sizes for each brand and now incorporates handles into medium and large boxes for ease of lifting. The packaging also includes helpful installation tips and QR code links to a technical support bulletin database for easy access to installation procedures. The new packaging is currently being implemented into the Australian market.

For more information, please email sales@australianclutch.com.au

CRC Industries Australia: CRC Aerosol range CRC’s new look cans bring together the same iconic CRC logo and colours with clean contemporary design elements allowing greater visual impact and ease of identification. The new packaging maintains a clear differentiation between industry categories, with red representing the industrial and auto markets and blue being the colour of choice for the electrical sector as it always has. An information tab has been included at the base of each can to clearly explain the product’s purpose. No changes were made to product part numbers or barcodes.

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

CRC Industries Australia: CRC Mass Air Flow (MAF) Sensor Cleaner and Throttle Body and Air-Intake Cleaner Single-Use Twin-Pack The CRC Mass Air Flow (MAF) Sensor Cleaner and Throttle Body and Air-Intake Cleaner Single-Use Twin-Pack was developed to offer customers everything they needed to remove harmful dirt and gum accumulation from a vehicle’s air intake system in a convenient and cost-effective single-use twin-pack package. These two products are to be used together, and so it made sense to combine them into one package for the benefit of the customer, who can now save time and money in-store.

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

Davies, Craig: New packaging for Davies Craig cooling products Davies Craig has made the move to solid recyclable cardboard packaging while drastically consolidating the number of cartons and boxes. It says this has allowed it to create ‘print practical’, attractive, uniform, instantly identifiable, and solid packaging for all Davies Craig cooling products. Prior to this consolidation the complete range of Davies Craig Electric Water Pumps and Thermatic Fans were supplied in separate boxes with different colour schemes which was costly and unnecessary. Further, the company wanted to move away from Perspex/plastics to solid recyclable, reconstituted cardboard packaging.

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

Diesel Distributors: Direction-Plus Packaging Diesel Distributors says the new Direction-Plus packaging for the ProVent, PreLine-Plus and Fuel manager products bring a new premium look and feel to the Direction-Plus brand, with soft-touch lamination and spot UV highlights. The subtle hexagonal camouflage pattern keeps in line with the Direction-Plus tag line “The first line of Defence.” The new packaging also allows retailers to maintain a professional showroom and retail space for customers while the Premium look and feel of the packaging also reinforces the level of quality of the products in the packaging.

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Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2020

INNOVATIVE PRODUCTS

Gates Australia: Gates Automotive Emergency Kits The Gates Automotive Emergency Kits contain parts specifically packaged to store in your vehicle in case of breakdown. The kits enable consumers to replace wear parts in the case of a breakdown situation with each kit containing the required radiator hose(s), V and/or Micro-V belts and hose clamps. The kits were originally sold in a hard plastic tub before a new PVC duffel bag solution was designed to reduce the overall footprint of the product for easier retail stocking and storage in vehicles while being durable, flexible, secure and transparent (to highlight the contents).

For more information, visit www.gatesaustralia.com.au/emergency-kit

HSP 4x4 Accessories: Roll R cover box HSP’s Roll R Cover packaging solution is designed to maximise real estate, minimise wastage, minimise damage and increase productivity in dispatching. The box’s main purpose was to cut out a two part process which involved boxing and then loading onto a pallet/skid. HSP engaged Visy to help with the design and tooling of the new box which features a self-contained pallet for easy forklift access, a suspended application of goods in the box and a twin cushion cardboard with double overlapping wall and sleeves, allowing units to be stacked.

For more information, visit www.hsputelids.com

Milford: Ult1mate Next Gen Towbars The unique modular design of the Ut1mate Next Generation Towbar allows each square hitch receiver style towbar to be packaged in a customised carton, with secure provisions for all elements and components. Internal component cartons provide the dual benefit of keeping all of the parts and accessories organised, while ensuring the outrigger chassis mounting plates and main rail/cross bar are held securely in place during transit. Compared with traditional packaging options, Milford says its Ult1mate Next Generation Towbars are easy to move and warehouse thanks to their regular shape and strong construction.

For more information, visit www.milford.one/ult1mate-next-gen-towbars

Pro Quip: the Pro Quip Select Fuel Can Labelling System Pro Quip’s research showed that when deciding between Fuel Cans, customers needed information around the rate at which the can will empty, the weight when full, storage life and service life. With the label being the only ‘real estate’ to get these points across, an effective numeric diagram was decided on. Extensions of this label (further information) will also be included with POS items, as well as on the Pro Quip Website. Pro Quip says this is a first-of-its-kind system for the Fuel Can and Jerry Can Markets.

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

Swe-Check: Prolec LED Assortment Fuse Pack The Prolec LED Assortment Fuse Pack’s multi compartment clamshell packaging is visually clear, eco-friendly and is reusable. Featuring a sizable graphic window, it can house a double folded promotional card. Security tags can be fitted between the folded card without being visible whilst a tight seal ensures product security. Its slim line edge design is visually appealing whilst reducing shelf space.

The easy to use and reusable flexible hinge is made from strong material. Available for both the LED indicating Mini blade and Auto blade fuses.

For more information, visit www.swe-check.com.au

Trico Products: Trico Force and Tech Beam Blades Trico introduced for its Force and Tech range of Beam wiper blades a new slim-line clamshell blister designed to work more efficiently in the retail space by allowing more product per peg. The newly redesigned, high impact product sleeve over the blister features logo updates, new product images and key technical points, as well as a QR code linking directly to the Trico website catalogue, which is also mobile enabled, for easy vehicle look up.

For more information, visit www.tricoproducts.com

Valvoline: Valvoline Easy Pour Bottle The Valvoline Easy Pour bottle was developed to create a smoother pour, incorporating ergonomic handling and focussing on how to reduce mess when you change your oil. A wide neck (45mm in diameter), anti-glug tube, centralised handle and advanced labelling system make up the new design. The wide 45mm spout allows the easy flow of oil from the bottle. The anti-glug tube allows for air to flow back into the bottle, creating a smooth and continuous stream of oil. The centralised handle aligns with the centre of gravity, making one handed pour easier. The advanced labelling system allows for finding the right oil for your car easier.

For more information, visit www.valvoline.com.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2020

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MEMBER FEATURE

BUCKING THE TREND

South Australian electrical accessories company Redarc is setting the standard in Australian manufacturing Redarc Electronics was founded in August of 1979 by electronics engineer, Robin (Bob) William Mackie, in South Australia.

Bob started the business by designing and manufacturing vehicle ignition systems and voltage converters. In fact, the name Redarc is believed to have come from the spark developed in the first ignition system having a “red arc.”

In 1997, Anthony and Michele Kittel along with Michele’s Father, Denis Brion, purchased the business following the premature death of its founder. Denis retired in 2002 and Anthony and Michele purchased 100 percent of the business at that time.

Under the current ownership, Redarc has grown from these humble beginnings to become a world-class, advanced electronics manufacturer, servicing both domestic and international markets.

Through rapid growth, Redarc has had to move premises several times. In 1997 it was operating out of a small building in Lonsdale, South Australia. At the time, it only had eight employees.

In 2014, Redarc was awarded as the Telstra Australian Business of the Year and in 2015 it acquired Hummingbird Electronics, a bespoke provider of electronic products encompassing safety solutions and technology-focused equipment designed to protect operators and improve efficiencies.

In 2018, Redarc completed its latest expansion which added an additional 3,000sqm of advanced manufacturing capability, increasing manufacturing by 250 percent and signifying a dramatic rise in productivity.

In addition to the expanded facility, Redarc also invested in state-of-the-art technology, which included new equipment and testing capabilities including enhancements to its Surface Mount Technology line for loading electronic components,

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an Electromagnetic Compatibility chamber and a Vibration test lab which enables highly accelerated lifetime testing of products that can simulate 10 years of life in just two days.

2019 saw Redarc celebrate its 40th year of operation and continue to build on emerging markets such as export and defence.

With more than four decades of experience in the research, design, development and manufacture of a range of electronic voltage converters and associated products, including inverters, power supplies, battery chargers, brake controllers and trailer braking products; Redarc says its products are attached to any moving vehicle that uses battery power.

Initially Redarc sold DC-DC voltage converters for running electronic equipment and lights for 24V DC European and Japanese trucks. But it was in the early 2000s, following a downturn in the trucking industry, that it diversified into dual battery isolators for the 4WD and RV industry.

“Redarc has since successfully released a range of advanced in-vehicle auxiliary charging solutions, the BCDC range, which essentially reset the DC to DC charging market. The range of award-winning In-vehicle battery chargers opened up a new market for auxiliary battery charging with the first model released in 2009,” Anthony says.

“In addition, Redarc’s range of electric brake controllers continue to grow from strength to strength. Redarc manufactured its first brake controller in 1989 and now the award-winning Tow-Pro Elite electric trailer brake controller has become one of the most popular on the market.

“More recently, Redarc has designed several flagship products for the Caravan, Camper and RV markets including The Manager30 battery management system and the total vehicle management system, RedVision, which when

combined create an unprecedented level of automation.”

As for the future, Redarc says that it has new and exciting products in the pipeline.

Currently, it supplies a wide range of industries and its business model has always included a strong network of automotive electrical wholesalers who stock and distribute Redarc product to the aftermarket.

The past few years have also seen Redarc grow and establish markets abroad, particularly in North America and Europe. In fact, in 2019 Redarc shipped products to over 35 countries.

“Redarc has also been steadily developing its profile in the global defence market. 2019 saw some major milestones reached in the defence segment including the establishment of a Redarc Defence Systems business and the delivery of their first major project,” Anthony says.

MEMBER FEATURE Redarc claims its success is its ability to provide manufactured solutions of the highest quality to its customers.

“Innovation coupled with a culture of continual process improvement, along with the investment of state-of-the-art manufacturing machinery, form the cornerstone of what sets Redarc apart from its competitors,” Anthony says.

He believes Redarc’s ability to scope projects and engage these philosophies gives it a true edge over its competition.

“Involving all stakeholders from across the business ensures that the methodology of product development is in line with lean manufacturing principles ensuring the optimisation of the technology in which Redarc has invested,” Anthony says.

One of the first things Anthony did when he bought the company was set up serious R&D capability.

“This is utilised by ensuring 15 percent of sales revenue is invested into R&D each year,” he explains.

“Redarc has a team of over 40 fulltime employees in its R&D department, comprising of engineers and technicians who transform ideas into commercial products. This enables us to be ahead of the pack in terms of world-class product offerings.

“We are proud to have been the recipient of many industry and business-related awards, which clearly matches its goals of ensuring it is an industry leader.”

In 2019 alone Redarc received several awards including: • AAAA Excellence in Manufacturing – Gold Award ($10m+ turnover) • RedVision awarded Australian Industrial Product of the Year at the 2019 Manufacturers Monthly Endeavour Awards.

• RedVision awarded CIAA’s Gerry Ryan OAM award for Innovation • Defence Teaming Centre Award with FormCut and IntelliParticle • Emerging Exporter Award – Business SA Export Awards Anthony preaches the ‘Customer is King’ mentality, which he believes defines Redarc’s philosophy.

“Unrelenting focus on innovation, passion for learning and building a team-based culture are all factors that contribute to Redarc being the company it is today,” Anthony says.

Redarc claims the driver of these characteristics is a highly skilled and empowered workforce. It has reportedly established a culture where the commitment of the Redarc employees to learning and embracing training is impressive, stating that its staff members see themselves as valued employees who make an important contribution to the businesses ongoing success daily.

Anthony states Redarc’s main competitive advantage is that it is an Australian-owned family

business manufacturing product of the highest quality in Australia. A supporting factor in this is that all its products are backed up with national sales and technically qualified staff that possess a working knowledge of all Redarc products and are trained to offer the best solutions required.

“Our customer and after-sales support are second to none. It’s what sets us apart from our competitors. We can provide solutions at all levels to a wide range of customers via a range of mediums,” Anthony says.

He says a secondary competitive advantage links back to Redarc’s aforementioned R&D. In fact the company has set up a separate R&D technology entity called Redarc Technologies Pty Ltd which is responsible for all research and design.

“If we want to remain competitive as a global manufacturer it is critical that we invest a significant amount of money back into innovation every year,” Anthony explains.

It is this continual commitment to R&D that helps the company meet its greatest challenge head on.

“Being a high-quality premium manufacturer, our products and services are the benchmark in which the competition is measured. As such, our biggest challenge has therefore been maintaining a strong market presence as an Australian manufacturer and competing against imported products from low cost nations,” Anthony explains.

“A key lesson for us is that we must continue to provide a compelling value proposition to our customers in the face of cheap imports by ensuring we utilise our competitive advantages such as our leading edge technology, high quality products and relationships, through sustained high levels of R&D, employing highly skilled staff and customer service excellence.

“Innovation is one of Redarc’s core values and it must encompass everything we do. We cannot accept the status quo and strive for continuous improvement.”

Redarc is in the process of implementing its long-term strategy that drives the direction of the business.

“It underpins where we are now, where we want to be and how we are going to get there. One of the fundamental themes of our strategy is the continued diversification of our customer base into new markets and move from selling ‘boxes’ to solutions and systems,” Anthony explains.

“Redarc is driven with a strong sense of purpose, to keep bringing solutions to market that allow people to do things outside their comfort zone.

Whether that is an extreme 4X4 adventure, defence application, heavy vehicle or mining.

“Redarc is committed to delivering products that work, so that people have the peace of mind that their equipment won’t let them down.

“For instance, the industry of portable and invehicle battery power is continually evolving and we believe there are continual opportunities emerging in these vehicles. We are seeing the same evolution of electric trailer braking technology and will ensure we are at the forefront of this too.

“There are also many opportunities provided by IoT or The Internet of Things. Data from products, how they are used, when they require servicing and so on – it is incredibly valuable.

“Export will also continue to represent a massive opportunity in North America in the growing ‘overlanding’ segment, and RV and Trailer segments. In Europe our products have been embraced by several RV manufacturers, our aim is to grow our export business to be a large portion of total sales of these markets.

“Finally, the rise of electric vehicles and the opportunities that will arise in this emerging market would be negligent to overlook given our expertise in battery and power management. We will be watching this space closely to see where we fit in.”

For more information, visit www.redarc.com.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2020

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HANDTOOLS & DIAGNOSTICS

CASE STUDY: BMW 1 SERIES ENGINE ECM FAULT - ENGINE MISFIRE Injectronics takes a look at a fault impacting BMW 116 and 118 model owners Injectronics explains that owners of the BMW 116 and 118 models built between 2011 and 2015 have reported they are having issues with the vehicle lacking power, having a rough idle and that the engine light is illuminated on the instrument cluster.

It says the Engine Control Module (ECM) in these models commonly fail and when the ECM fails it will cause the engine to lose power and misfire on one or more cylinders.

Affected vehicles: • BMW 116i 2011 – 2015 • BMW 118i 2011 – 2015

Common faults: • Engine constantly misfiring • Loss of power

Fault codes: • P0300/140001 - Combustion misfires, multiple cylinders: Fuel injection is cut • 140010 – Combustion misfire multiple cylinders: Detected • P0301/140101 - Combustion Misfire cylinder 1: Fuel injection is cut • 140110 – Combustion misfire, cylinder 1: Detected

• P0302/140201 - Combustion Misfire cylinder 2: Fuel injection is cut • 140210 – Combustion misfire, cylinder 2: Detected • P1301/150102 - Ignition, cylinder 1: Combustion period too short • P1303/150202 – Ignition, cylinder 2: Combustion period too short

Diagnosis:

Injectronics says the cause of the failure is commonly due to the ignition coil/s failing. When a coil/s fails it overloads the ignition coil driver and circuits within the ECM. It warns a common mistake made by technicians is to replace the ignition coil without checking ECM for damage.

Injectronics explains the technician can confirm a damaged ECM by testing with an oscilloscope.

If there is no primary output signal from the ECM to terminal pin one on the ignition coil, it can be confirmed that the ECM is damaged. The faulty ECM should be repaired or replaced before fitting new coils to the vehicle.

Solution:

Injectronics explains it can test and repair these ECMs, avoiding the need to reprogram a brandnew replacement unit offering substantial time

and money savings. When refitting the rebuilt ECM Injectronics recommends replacing the coils to prevent re-damaging the ECM. Injectronics states it can provide the following solutions: • a repair of the customer’s own unit • supply new Ignition coils with the rebuilt unit • supply a fully programmed exchange unit (customer must provide the original unit) Injectronics requires the Front Electronic Module (FEM), ECM, Key reader, Key and Start/Stop button for testing and repair of the above listed faults. (Injectronics require only the ECM if it is testing/repairing an ignition fault on one of the cylinders and the customer has diagnosed the fault to be with the ECM).

For relevant part numbers and more information, please contact Injectronics on 03 8792 6999 or visit www.injectronics.com.au

INTRODUCING CENTURY’S NEW BATTERY MONITOR Helping your customers avoid a breakdown Would you like to help your customers keep a closer eye on their batteries?

Century says its new BM12V Battery Monitor takes the guess work out of battery monitoring, providing users with a live view of how their vehicle’s battery is performing at any given moment.

More importantly, it says it will also warn them of an impending battery failure – giving them a chance to return to your workshop for battery replacement, instead of being left stranded by the roadside.

Backed by a two-year warranty and suitable for use on all 12V flooded, AGM and GEL lead-acid batteries, the Century BM12V battery monitor can be offered as a convenient upsell with any new battery purchase.

It is easy to install and can be used to monitor the performance of starting batteries in cars, 4x4s, SUVs, trucks, motorcycles and boats.

Century says it is also ideal for monitoring the state-of-charge and power usage in Deep Cycle applications like campers and caravans.

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Century’s BM12V Battery Monitor uses Bluetooth to wirelessly connect to your phone, via a free-todownload iOS and Android app.

The BM12V will automatically sync with your mobile device and provide a live view of the battery’s state of charge, along with cranking test results every time the vehicle is started. It can also test the vehicle’s charging system and notifies the user of any potential issues that may affect battery life.

The IP65 rating means the unit is dust tight and protected against water ingress, making it ideal for under-bonnet applications where dust and water splashes are commonplace. A connection range of up to 10-metres also means the monitor can be installed in hard-to-reach areas within the vehicle.

With an RRP of $59.95, Century says its BM12V Battery Monitor is competitively priced and ideal to offer as an up-sell with any new battery sale.

Century says that by giving customers the power to monitor their batteries directly, it will also help

build trust with the product and your business – increasing the chances that they’ll return in future when the battery is due for replacement.

Century Batteries has been designing and manufacturing batteries in Australia since 1928.

For over 90 years it says it has continuously worked to deliver a range of products better suited to Australia’s extreme climate and harsh conditions.

For more information on Century’s BM12V Battery Monitor, visit www.centurybatteries.com.au or contact your Century Batteries Specialist on 1300 362 287.

HANDTOOLS & DIAGNOSTICS

NEATO TOOL KIT WINS AT SEMA This innovative kit won two prestigious awards at the show inurZONE’s NEATO Tool Kit was recognised with two awards at the 2019 SEMA Show – taking out the runners-up award for Best New Packaging and also being awarded with a SEMA Global Media Award.

NEATO gives you an extra set of hands to increase efficiency and speed up productivity while you are actively working within arm’s reach, for when you’re ‘inurZONE’. NEATO is a multi-tool

management system, that assists people actively working in a variety of industries.

“In 2018 we first exhibited NEATO at SEMA and found the reception was amazingly respectful with challenging questions that we were prepared to answer with factual answers. The reason for so many questions is because NEATO is so innovative that it visually makes people start working through their minds thoughts instantly trying to compare NEATO’s physical look with something else, then they transition into memories of pain points where they could have ultimately used NEATO’s functionality to benefit their situation over the years,” inurZONE owner, Terry Scott, said.

“Within 12 months I went back to The SEMA Show with a boxed manufactured product and we entered NEATO into the new products category to find that we were up against 3000 other highly competitive products backed by multi-million dollar companies.

“For a 100 percent Australian owned start-up like us to walk away as the winner of two awards was absolutely amazing for us. Being at the SEMA Show in 2018 was like winning the super bowl for my team and I, so coming back in 2019 and winning two awards was like going two whole seasons undefeated and winning the super bowl back to back!”

For more information about inurZONE’s NEATO Tool Kit, visit www.inurzone.com

CHARGE UP BC Battery Controller manufacturers professional battery chargers and maintainers, jump starters and boosters Following positive feedback received at last year’s AAA Expo, BC Battery Controller says it is glad to announce the opening of its Asia Pacific branch and also a warehouse in Tullamarine (Victoria).

Distributed in more than 40 countries, BC Battery Controller says its products are among the safest and most advanced on the market and are suited for both motorbikes and four wheel vehicles, including the heavy ones.

BC Battery Controller says its chargers and maintainers are designed for the optimal maintenance of every type of Lithium and LeadAcid Batteries (traditional, MF, Gel, AGM, EFB, VRLA or Calcium-Calcium, 6V, 12V or 24V) including advanced functions of recovery and desulfation from as low as 1.25V. BC products are 100 percent made in Italy and every battery charger is covered by warranties of three to five years.

great performances in terms of deeply discharged battery recovery from 1.25V, delivering “an unbeaten value on the market.”

It explains the charger can remain always connected to the vehicle’s battery, just like all battery chargers in the BC Battery Controller range. A LED bar shows the battery state of charge and will also inform if the battery is unable to retain the charge.

For heavier vehicles BC Battery Controller says its BC 9000 EVO+ has made a breakthrough in the field of battery charging by being the only digital, multi-stage and multi-program battery charger and tester with a maximum charging current of nine Amp. The BC 9000 EVO+ works in two different modes: battery charging and battery/alternator testing.

One of the top selling BC products is the BC SMART 2000+: a two Amp battery charger and maintainer suitable for charging 12V lead acid batteries for motorcycles, scooters and cars up to 100 Ah.

BC Battery Controller says that the battery charging mode gives the user full versatility, thanks to three distinct charging programs: ‘Car,’ ‘Start&Stop’ and ‘Bike.’ BC Battery Controller says it will deliver full charge to all kind of leadacid batteries from 1 Ah to 200 Ah, including traditional, sealed and calcium batteries.

BC Battery Controller says not only is the stateof-the-art eight-steps charging algorithm perfect for charging and maintenance, but it also delivers

In the jump starters’ range, BC Battery Controller says its BC BOOSTER K10000 PRO is a professional jump starter for all 12V vehicles and

for 24V vehicles up to 12.000cc, with a peak current of 1.000 Amp and a latest generation lithium battery.

Portable and compact (1.2 Kg), it can execute up to 40 jumpstarts (for 12V batteries) with a single charge. Moreover, it works as a 30.000 mAh powerbank, with two USB outputs (5V, 2.1A + 1A) for charging electronic devices and an embedded 12V 10A socket.

BC also manufactures lithium superlight starting batteries for motorbikes; branded BC Lithium Batteries; and it has been recently awarded for the best product in this category in Germany by an independent committee.

BC Battery Controller says it is also the official supplier of some of the most prestigious automotive makers and the technical sponsor of more than 20 motorbike racing teams.

For more details, please visit www.batterycontroller.com.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2020

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HANDTOOLS & DIAGNOSTICS

BETTER BATTERY MANAGEMENT With the CTEK professional range The performance and lifespan of lead-acid batteries is seriously inhibited when exposed to temperature extremes.

It’s easy to forget batteries during the warmer summer months, however they still need to meet the high-power demands of modern vehicles.

Key challenges for modern workshops to be mindful of include drying out, overheating and sulphation.

Simply by charging and conditioning batteries during a regular service, workshops can ensure customers are protected against flat batteries and other battery related breakdowns. CTEK says it has a fast, safe and effective solution that will enable workshops to charge batteries without removing the battery from the vehicle or interfering with vehicle servicing procedures.

CTEK chargers are said to be powerful, fully automatic switched mode battery chargers designed to offer outstanding levels of reliability, safety and efficiency. They are fully automatic, easy to use and require no specialist knowledge or monitoring – simply connect, forget and carry on with a normal service without worrying about the risk of overcharging and gassing.

It says its PRO25S is an innovative, versatile and highly efficient 25A battery charger and power supply, and has been developed around the needs of the automotive professional. Further, the PRO25 automatically adjusts the charging rate depending on ambient temperature to ensure ideal charging in extreme cold or hot weather conditions.

Combining power and advanced technology with safety, and the portability and flexibility to work with any 12V vehicle battery including lithiumion (LiFePO4), Ctek says the PRO25S is the perfect solution to support the battery during diagnostic and fault-finding work.

The CTEK PRO25S is available to purchase from Repco stores, nationwide.

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Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2020

MILWAUKEE TOOL RIGHT ANGLE DIE GRINDER The perfect tool for getting into tight places Milwaukee Tool says its M12 FUEL Right Angle Die Grinder is the first cordless right angle die grinder which delivers the performance and size that professional service mechanics demand.

The die grinder delivers maximum power for heavy-duty applications and features POWERSTATE Brushless Motor technology. The cordless die grinder provides the user with up to 0.3 HP performance, best-in-class size to help fit in tight places, and offers greater mobility and access to the user, says Milwaukee Tool.

The M12 FUEL Right Angle Die Grinder features Four-Mode speed control and a responsive variable-speed trigger for “unmatched” control.

Milwaukee Tool explains it is an industryleading manufacturer of heavy-duty power tools, accessories and hand tools for professional users worldwide. Since the company began in 1924, Milwaukee Tool says it has led the industry in both durability and performance and with an unwavering commitment to the trades, continues to lead with a focus on providing innovative, trade-specific solutions.

It says that whether it is through its leadership in Lithium-Ion technology, as seen in the M12, M18 and M28 Systems, time-saving accessories

or innovative hand tool products, Milwaukee is dedicated to delivering a steady stream of advanced solutions for the trades that offer increased productivity and unmatched durability.

M12 FUEL Right Angle Die Grinder features: • Four-Mode Speed Control • Optimum performance with 50 mm (2”) accessories • 0.3 HP motor output • Greater mobility and access • REDLITHIUM-ION battery technology • POWERSTATE Brushless Motor technology • REDLINK Intelligence • Maximum power for heavy-duty applications • Included is the M12 FUEL Right Angle Die Grinder (Tool only) [M12FDGA-0], two wrenches and 8mm Collet For more information, visit www.milwaukeetool.com.au

CONSIDERING BUYING A DIAGNOSTIC SCANNER? Interequip offers the following product purchase advice With the ever changing vehicle systems and the adding of more on-board computers or modules, the vehicles of today are becoming more complex as technology is becoming more advanced.

The need for a scan tool or diagnostic scanner is a must have in today’s workshop.

But the question on most people’s mind is, which one to buy?

When looking for a scan tool, Interequip says you need to look for the latest technology and features and benefits that the tool has to offer.

It says the Autel scan tool is one of the leading scan tools in the world, stating that it not only has broad coverage for software makes for cars from Australia, Europe, USA and Asia, it also has a scanner - Maxisys CV - dedicated to Commercial vehicles, trucks and buses.

In addition, Autel reportedly has diversified

product ranges with different pricing from cheaper OBDII tools to high-end advanced ECU program tools to satisfy different users’ budgets.

Interequip stats Autel also has ongoing new development for advanced functions such as TPMS, Immobilizer Key Programming Tools, ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance System) and ADAS MA600 for glass replacement (windscreen repair).

As such, Interequip says Autel definitely answers to modern workshop repairers’ need for diagnosis.

When buying a scan tool, Interequip says it is also important to research the credibility and after sales service for the supplier.

To request a demo or to enquire further, please contact 18000EQUIP (1800037847) or email info@interequip.com.au

HANDTOOLS & DIAGNOSTICS

SCHULINK 6V/12V NEW WORKSHOP ASSISTANCE LIGHTS and workshop lights from WIRELESS TESTER TheNarvaheadhavetorchmultiple applications Perform battery tests and system tests wirelessly from your smartphone or tablet Schumacher Electric says its innovative Schulink App easily syncs the SBT1 Bluetooth Battery Tester to smartphones and tablets.

The Wireless 6V/12V Battery Tester performs Start and Stop and EV Battery Tests and will also perform 12V/24V System Tests.

To use, simply download and install the SBT1 Schulink App from Google Play or the Apple Store to your mobile devices. Then connect the Schumacher SBT1 tester to a 6V or 12V battery to be tested, start up the App on the mobile device, scan for the device and start testing.

Narva says it continues to expand its Advanced Lighting Solutions (ALS) range of workshop lighting to ensure a premium work light for every job or application.

The technologically innovative Narva ALS range has now grown to include two new LED under bonnet/scene lights, offering users a pair of feature-packed alternatives to Narva’s already popular and proven See Ezy rechargeable LED under bonnet lamps (71230 and 71228) that have reportedly had huge success with many workshops and racing teams.

The two new lamps boast a powerful, adjustable light output supported by a lightweight, sturdy construction and a multitude of accessories, providing seamless, hands-free lighting for an entire engine bay.

With selectable output/brightness, users can choose from two to four hours operating time with a three to four hour charging time. Both units offer 1.2 to two metre adjustable lengths designed to fit most bonnets, with detachable brackets for easy mounting and storage.

Narva says that aside from its precision build quality, where the ALS under bonnet lamps will truly stand out is for their inclusion of some advanced features. The 1000 lumen 71430 features a detachable light head and battery, as well as a two in one charge base that doubles as a powerful flood (800lm) and spot (400lm) torch.

SBT1 Tester Product features include: On/Off button; Compact design with waterproof (IP65) rating; 20-inch cable with durable clamps; Wireless connection range: 10m (30 feet); Three LEDs (Blue: Connectivity, Green: On, Red: Fault); Stores 2,000 test records; 9V rechargeable internal Li-Ion battery; Test batteries with as little as 1V; Operation range: 40~2,000 (CCA/ SAE); Voltage range: 1V~16V; Rating system: SAE, DIN, EN, IEC, CA; Application: 6V, 12V automotive battery (SS EFB and AGM battery included) and 12V, 24V charging /starting system.

Schulink App features include: Performs Battery Tests and System Tests, Start Stop Tests and EV Battery Tests; Capable of email/text test records; Interactive Home Menu; Easy and fast Bluetooth pairing; Battery State of Health feature; System Test Detailed Report; and Works with iOS 7.0 and later; Android OS 4.0 and later.

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Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2020

An optional UV torch charge base (71484) provides a powerful UV output ideal for leak detection.

Meanwhile, the more powerful 2000 lumen 71432 can operate by battery or via its included five meter 240V AC cable so workshop users are never left without light.

Optional extras include two heavy duty tripods (with or without wheels), multi-functional fasteners, spare chargers and batteries, and the UV charge base and torch for 71430.

Narva’s new ALS under bonnet lamps and the rest of its premium ALS range of workshop lighting are available from leading automotive and transport outlets throughout Australia.

Its head torch, meanwhile, produces a 180 Lumens flood beam light that provides 120 degrees of beam angle courtesy of two COB LEDs. A secondary arc shaped COB LED also provides the option of a lower intensity (120 Lumens) flood beam for when less light is required.

Additionally, the head torch is equipped with a spotlight function, which provides 150 Lumens of output, delivering strong illumination up to 60 meters away. Other benefits of this new light include red (620nm) and green (520nm) light functions for added versatility.

The actual lamp component is magnetised and can be easily removed from the comfortable, fullyadjustable helmet clip head band to provide extra versatility for the lamp to be used separately.

The lamp is also motion activated, making it more convenient for the wearer to operate on the move or if they have their hands full. There is no need to physically touch the lamp and finding the unit when it’s turned off is easy as it features a glow in the dark locator and there is also a brightness memory function.

For added performance indoors or outdoors, the head torch is dust and water resistant to IP65 and charging is fast and efficient with the included 240V USB charging lead.

The new Narva ALS Rechargeable Head Torch is covered by a two-year warranty and is available from leading automotive, recreational and trade outlets.

For more information, visit www.narva.com.au/ALS or contact sales@narva.com.au

HANDTOOLS & DIAGNOSTICS

LOCK AND LOAD With GearWrench’s three-piece locking Flex Handle Ratchet Set Industry leading hand tool manufacturer, GearWrench, says it is proud to present its three piece locking Flex Handle Ratchet Set. Including ¼, ⅜ and ½ inch drives, this ratchet set is designed for jobs where accessibility is limited and to aid in the prevention of rounding out fastener heads.

Ratchet Handle flexibility is engaged by the flush mounted on/off switch for customisable access angles in hard to reach areas.

The locking head feature provides the user with the option of using the ratchet in either nine fixed angle positions, or an almost unlimited flexible head position while unlocked.

GearWrench says this provides extreme versatility as the ratcheting function can be used for traditional straight fastening or for use on angles where space is limited.

Boasting 84 ratchet teeth for a smooth operation, the ratcheting arc is minimised to engage the next gear tooth sooner, increasing overall efficiency by requiring less movement of the wrench handle.

Paired with a low profile teardrop design, the compact ratchet head increases accessibility in all hard to reach areas.

The sealed ratchet head design maintains a smooth transmission of the internal gears to protect the ratchet from gear slip and tooth erosion over time.

Coupled with a fully polished chrome vanadium exterior, these ratchets have a smooth, well balanced feel that will last.

The GearWrench Locking Flex Handle Ratchet Set is also covered by lifetime warranty, for consumer confidence at every turn.

From the home handyman to a seasoned tradesman, GearWrench says its Three Piece Locking Flex Handle Ratchet Set provides a user friendly experience in all hard to reach areas.

The GearWrench Locking Flex Handle Ratchet Set has a RRP of $249.

For more information or to find your nearest retailer, please visit www.gearwrench.com.au

THE NECESSITIES OF STEERING GEOMETRY Ever noticed the steering wheel is misaligned when driving in a straight line or the vehicle pulls to one side?

If the answer is yes, this could well be the classic signs of steering geometry problems, says Autodata.

Steering geometry problems generally tend to occur with aging and wearing of components.

Nevertheless, they can also be caused by impacting potholes, driving over kerbs and most certainly after the vehicle is involved in a major impact.

Steering geometry, also known as wheel alignment, is the procedure required to check and if necessary, adjust settings when they have deviated away from the manufacturers’ specifications.

However, it is also important to bear in mind, if after a steering geometry inspection there is cause for realignment, not all geometry values are adjustable and whenever noticeable deviations from pre-defined settings are observed, the only remedial procedure available could well be component replacement.

In a series of articles to be published in this magazine, technical experts Autodata will take a look at a few steering geometry essentials to help you in your service, maintenance and diagnostic work.

Camber angle Camber angle is the direction the front wheel is leaning relative to the wheel’s vertical centreline and depending on the lean, the camber angle is either positive or negative.

To explain in more detail, when observed from the front of the vehicle if the top of the wheel

is leaning towards the engine, this is considered as negative camber. Conversely, if the top of the wheel is leaning outwards, this denotes positive camber.

If during a steering geometry examination, the measurements are outside specified tolerances and the camber angle needs amending, look for evidence of elongated holes on the suspension strut tower, or eccentric bolts or washers securing the upper and lower control arms as a means of adjustment. In their absence, scrutiny of the suspension and steering components is essential to check for any potential damage.

Castor angle Castor angle refers to the positioning of the steering axis centreline from the wheel vertical centreline when viewed from the side of the vehicle.

If the steering axis centreline contacts the road surface ahead of the wheel’s vertical centreline, this is said to be positive castor. Whereas, negative castor implies the steering axis centreline contacts the road surface behind the wheel’s vertical centreline.

Most modern vehicles today are designed with positive castor, this in conjunction with the other geometry angles, reduces steering effort and allows the front wheels to self-straighten after a bend is negotiated.

Yet, to avert the vehicle from wandering towards the kerbside because of the apex in present day roads, the average vehicle castor and camber

Negative camber. 2. Wheel vertical centreline. 3. Positive camber.

angles, also called cross castor and cross camber, can sometimes be set at slightly opposed settings from left to right depending on which side of the road the vehicle is driven.

In most contemporary vehicles the castor angle is non-adjustable; nonetheless, aftermarket kits do exist that can be tailored to the suspension to permit castor angle alteration.

In the next article, which will be in a future issue, Autodata will take a look at King pin inclination (KPI) and Toe-in and toe-out.

Autodata has a dedicated Wheel Alignment module to further assist technicians with wheel alignment procedures and help provide workshops with an additional revenue stream. Within the module there is a comprehensive guide which includes information on subjects such as camber angle, ride height, tyres and adjustment procedures together with manufacturer-specific data.

For more information, visit www.autodata-group.com Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2020

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LUBRICANTS, FLUIDS & CHEMICALS

POWERFUL CLEANING SOLUTIONS From Bluechem Australia Bluechem Australia says it has you sorted when it comes to your need for powerful cleaning solutions thanks to its Oxicat and DPF Power Clean products.

exhaust gas recirculation, direct injection and turbochargers, and in areas with poor fuel quality.

Often there is a OBD (On Board Diagnostic) error engine light message to the driver.

Bluechem’s Oxicat

Bluechem explains that the unique formula of Oxicat does not burn completely during the combustion, but instead remains in the exhaust system.

Oxicat is a specially developed high-performance cleaner to sustainably and effectively remove soot and carbon deposits in the entire exhaust tract, especially in the area of the catalyst, the oxygen sensor, the turbocharger and the EGR valve.

This decarbonising technology is a quick and effective preventative cleaner and is suitable for all petrol, diesel and hybrid engines.

With regular use, it provides protection against renewed contamination, increases fuel efficiency, optimises the engine performance and ensures the proper correct function of the catalyst and the oxygen sensors. Thus Oxicat supports compliance with the vehicle’s emission limits.

During driving processes, problems occur in the engine due to catalytic converter and oxygen sensor contamination causing an increase in fuel consumption, poor performance and an increase in harmful exhaust emissions such as carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons which damage the environment.

These problems occur in all vehicles, especially over short distances and for vehicles with

As such, Oxicat will penetrate the residues and contaminations and dissolve them during ordinary driving.

Bluechem’s Oxicat can be used in all petrol and diesel engines and hybrid vehicles and is recommended for vehicles with excessive exhaust emissions.

The product should be applied regularly (every three months) to the fuel tank and 300ml will treat 60-80 litres of fuel. It is especially suited for city driving cycles.

Oxicat + DPF Power Clean Bluechem says using its Oxicat and DPF Power Clean products together in diesel applications can result in fast and immediate DPF regeneration results within 20 minutes of idling the engine.

Bluechem’s DPF Power Clean is a high power cleaner engineered as a Diesel Chemical Solution to help the regeneration of Diesel Particulate

Filters. The product can be used in all diesel engines and mixed with all diesel fuels and works while the engine is running.

A 375ml can of DPF Power Clean can treat up to 80 litres of diesel fuel.

The simple combination of DPF Power Clean with Oxicat results in DPF regeneration and all of the resulting benefits including reduced soot, increased Exhaust Gas Temperature, reduced emissions and improved fuel economy, says Bluechem.

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

PENRITE LAUNCHES ENVIRO+ 12-FE The fully synthetic lubricant has been developed to meet the requirements of BMW’s LL-12 FE specification Manufacturer requirements are an important consideration when finding the right specification lubricant for your customers’ vehicles.

This ensures original equipment performance, as well as fuel economy and engine life.

Australia’s own Penrite Oil says it is pleased to introduce Enviro+ 12-FE to the marketplace.

This fully synthetic Petrol and Diesel 5W-30 lubricant has been specially developed to meet

the requirements of BMW’s Longlife 12 FE specification, also know as LL-12 FE. This specification is suitable for late model BMW diesel vehicles, including: • • • • •

118d F20 series (2013 on) 520d F07 series (2014 on) 535d F10 series (2014 on) 640d F06 series (2016 on) X2, X3, X4, X5, X5 series (2015 on)

Using the latest advances in mid SAPS (Sulphated Ash, Phosphorus and Sulphur) additive technology, Enviro+ 12-FE meets ACEA C2, APN SN Plus Resource Conserving, ILSAC GF-5 as well as the BMW LL-12 FE specification.

Penrite explains that it can be used in naturally aspirated, supercharged, turbochaged low emission diesel, petrol and flex-fuel engines (including hybrids). A further inclusion is 64

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2020

enhanced LSPI protection, or Low Speed Pre Igntion, a possible cause of catastrophic engine failure.

Available in one litre and seven litre sizes, 12-FE also suits numerous Toyota, Mazda, Honda, Nissan and Subaru models, as well as many other makes.

Penrite Enviro+ 12-FE is available now.

For more about Penrite’s Enviro+ range of lubricants, visit www.penriteoil.com.au or call 1300 736 748.

LUBRICANTS, FLUIDS & CHEMICALS

PRESTONE NOW AVAILABLE FROM FILPRO AUTOMOTIVE Prestone forms part of Filpro Automotive Australia’s portfolio of market-leading products Filpro Automotive says Prestone products have been trusted for protecting vehicle cooling systems for over 90 years.

Begun with conquering the production of the first non-flammable Ethylene Glycol in 1927 to keep engines from freezing and creating the first inhibitor powerful enough to protect cooling systems from rust formation in 1930, Prestone says its significant 90-year history is attributed to its ongoing mission to “provide the finest automotive fluids in the world; keeping their technologies well above their competitors with industry leading innovations.”

It says Prestone’s success has come directly through developing new products, innovative solutions to motoring problems, improvement on existing products and establishing long relationships with OEM vehicle manufacturers.

Prestone says its leading vehicle maintenance products extends to its range of power steering fluids.

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Prestone Power Steering Fluid helps to maintain smooth operation of the power steering system for all makes and models and is fortified with an advanced additive package that prevents corrosion, reduces wear and extends power steering system life.

Further, it is formulated with a premium base oil that reportedly provides long fluid life, meeting the service requirements of many global manufacturers, and is compatible with factory fluids.

Prestone Full Synthetic Asian Power Steering Fluid, Full Synthetic European Steering Fluid (suitable for where Pentosin CHF 7.1, CHF 202 or CHF 11S fluids are recommended) and Full Synthetic American Power Steering Fluid, are manufactured for vehicle specific application.

Prestone Power Steering Fluid features: • Anti-wear additives to protect pump components

• Antioxidants to prevent sludge formation • Seal conditioners to protect and rejuvenate seals • Anti-foam agents to prevent pump cavitation and steering loss • Corrosion inhibitors to protect metal components For further information on the Prestone products available, contact Filpro Automotive via 0400 878 837, 08 8193 9675 or arossiter@filpro.com.au

LUBRICANTS, FLUIDS & CHEMICALS

TITAN ATF 6400 Fuchs says its TITAN ATF 6400 product can service approximately 5.5 million vehicles The Australian and New Zealand automotive market is the most complex in the world having a vastly greater number of vehicle brands and models than any other market.

The complexity of these markets flows through to the transmission fluid requirements and it’s important to have an understanding of the functions necessary to ensure optimal transmission performance and longevity.

These tasks include the cooling of the transmission, its lubrication, its protection against wear, the operation of solenoids and clutch packs, as well as managing friction during gear shifts and preventing shuddering.

If one or even several of these tasks are not performed properly, the transmission will at the very least feel wrong and most likely sustain damage.

While multi-vehicle ATFs can serve a purpose towards satisfying general automatic transmission requirements across a mixed fleet of vehicles, they may not truly deliver the same level of performance as a dedicated, Original Equipment

Manufacturer (OEM) Approved, Automatic Transmission Fluid, says Fuchs.

As one of the biggest OEM first-fill suppliers for transmission fluids, Fuchs says it works closely with the transmission and vehicle OEMs, as well as key industry formulation houses, to ensure its range of ATFs provide optimum protection.

Within the complexity of transmissions in this market there are dominate OEM specifications that service significant numbers of vehicles, so being able to engineer a fluid to provide more than one such OEM Approval in a single fluid provides huge benefits, says Fuchs.

It states its TITAN ATF 6400 provides OEM approved coverage for both the current mainstream GM and Ford specifications as well as validated capability to service a number of late Japanese, Korean and European requirements.

After analysing the Australian and New Zealand market, Fuchs believes the specifications of its TITAN ATF 6400 product allows it to service approximately 5.5 million vehicles*.

TITAN ATF 6400 reportedly provides exceptional anti-shudder performance, consistent and strong friction control properties validated through realworld testing of nearly 1,000,000 kilometres. It has been specially designed to deliver increased performance and fuel efficiency for modern automatic transmissions where reduced viscosity is required whilst meeting the stringent GM DEXRON-VI and Ford MERCON LV Approvals.

For more information, visit www.fuchs.com *Please refer to the latest Product Data Sheet for full details, and for specific vehicle application refer to the Fuchs web and mobile oil chooser programs.

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LUBRICANTS, FLUIDS & CHEMICALS

SPECO THOMAS & INTRODUCING CASTROL EXPRESS VHT CELEBRATE Your shortcut to lubricant ordering ANNIVERSARY Castrol says it is proud to announce the launch of Castrol EXPRESS which it says will revolutionise the way you manage your lubricant orders.

In 2020 Speco Thomas is celebrating 50 years of VHT Distribution The year 2020 marks the 50th anniversary of Speco Thomas distributing the VHT range of aerosol paints in Australia.

Speco Thomas says VHT is widely accepted as the leading brand and product of its type as the “aerosol paint Australians reach for when manifolds, exhausts, blocks, wheels or calipers need a high temperature durable ceramic coating.”

Established in 1961 by the Sperex Corporation (USA), VHT reportedly pioneered high-temp coatings for NASA and many of its Aerospace suppliers in Southern California.

VHT “Flameproof” was originally used on space re-entry vehicles and later to mark ceramic tiles on the Space Shuttles as well as the B-2 Stealth Bomber.

Speco Thomas explains that by 1965, VHT was being used on every entry in the Indy 500. It says the hot rod industry and drag racing followed and today VHT products are widely used in the aerospace, automotive, manufacturing, racing and restoring industries.

Key VHT products include VHT Flame Proof Coating; VHT Engine Enamel; VHT’s Caliper, Brake Drum and Rotor Coatings and VHT Vinyl Dye. VHT’s complete line-up includes sandable primers, anodised colour coats, wheel paint, metallic engine enamels, Wrinkle Plus Coatings, Nite-Shades lens coatings, Case and Barrel paint for motorcycle engines, paints for hood, bumper and trim, roll bar and chassis. As such, Speco Thomas says VHT covers all of your needs for automotive exterior and interior dress-up applications.

Speco Thomas has been in business for more than 50 years and has been the sole distributor of VHT throughout Australia since 1970.

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You can now order Castrol products directly from your PC, Android or iOS device. Castrol says it is quick, simple and gives you full control of your lubricant orders; making your business easier to manage.

The new Castrol EXPRESS online web portal and Android and Apple apps give you the freedom to place orders anytime and anywhere.

Castrol says that with this new service the complete Castrol range is on offer at your fingertips, and the process is incredibly simple and much easier to manage than traditional methods – putting the power in your hands and allowing you to get on with business.

Offering 24/7 access to the complete Castrol range, you can now place new orders, repeat regular orders in under a minute, search the full product range, monitor delivery status and so much more. It is a quick and secure shortcut to re-ordering Castrol lubricants, all in a time and place that is convenient to you, it says.

Castrol EXPRESS is available to Castrol Trade customers online or from the App Store for

iOS devices and from the Google Play store for Android systems.

Signing up for the Castrol EXPRESS service is easy, says Castrol, which explains that all you need to do is send an email to orders@castrol. com.au with a few details (Business name, account number, contact name and business contact number). A Castrol representative will then promptly be in touch, welcoming you to the free Castrol EXPRESS service.

Castrol says it is an industry leader in innovation and cutting-edge products and now it is revolutionising how you access that range – whatever your needs, whatever your timeframe, Castrol says Castrol EXPRESS gives you the power and flexibility to control your lubricant orders and welcomes you to a quicker, smarter and more efficient way of managing your lubricant needs.

For more from Castrol, visit www.castrol.com.au

RP7 HEAVY DUTY DEGREASER From Selleys Selleys says its RP7 Heavy Duty Degreaser is a non-hazardous waterbased formula developed with the consumer in mind.

It explains that its Selleys RP7 Heavy Duty Degreaser is ready to use for easy clean-up of: • Tough grease; • Grime and oil from engines; • Machinery; • Metal; • Tools; and • Work benches or similar.

Selleys explains that its RP7 Heavy Duty Degreaser rapidly dissolves and removes grime, grease and oil from a wide range of surfaces too, including metals, steel, aluminium, rubbers, plastics, automotive paint, and laminate.

It can also remove automotive fluids such as transmission fluid, brake fluid and power steering fluid while being non-damaging to automotive paints, bicycle paint, rubbers or plastics.

The product has a low odour formula which can be used in small confined spaces where

ventilation is poor and is available in 500mL trigger bottle.

For convenience, Selleys explains it has also launched the Selleys RP7 Heavy Duty Degreaser in a convenient wipes pack.

This wipes pack features powerful heavy duty cleaning nodules on a strong cloth. The wipes can absorb and clean grease, grime and oil with no rinsing required; and the product dries quickly while leaving no residue on surfaces.

The Selleys RP7 Heavy Duty Degreaser wipes pack is available in a pack of 12 ‘supersized’ wipes.

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

LUBRICANTS, FLUIDS & CHEMICALS

VALVOLINE EXPLAINS NEW STANDARDS In this article, Valvoline address some of the FAQs around the new API SP and ILSAC GF-6 standards Carmakers continue the drive to efficiency and fuel economy. With these goals, demands on engines and their componentry continue to increase and engine oil technology must evolve to meet higher demands.

The American Petroleum Institute (API) and International Lubricant Specialist Advisory Committee (ILSAC) are introducing new standards in 2020. These standards reflect the development of new engines with cleaner emissions and better fuel efficiency.

These power plants require oils with comparable lubrication technology. Consequently, Valvoline says it will upgrade current engine oil formulations and introduce new engine oils to meet these specifications.

What Is API and ILSAC? ILSAC, The International Lubricants Standardization and Approval Committee, was formed in 1992 by AAMA (American Automobile Manufacturers Association, representatives of DaimlerChrysler Corporation, Ford Motor Company, and General Motors Corporation) and JAMA (Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association) to define the needs, parameters, licensing, and administration of lubricant specifications. Along with the Tripartite system – API, SAE, and ASTM – they formed the Engine Oil Licensing and Certification System (EOLCS).

API stands for American Petroleum Institute. API is responsible for identifying the standard that an engine oil meets. To receive the API seal of approval, the engine oil has to comply with the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) oil viscosity

standards. The API is a consensus specification voted on by all automotive organisations. ILSAC differs because it also measures fuel economy, while API does not.

fuel economy retention; engine durability; wear protection for idle-stop; low-speed pre-ignition minimisation; engine oil aeration reduction and turbocharger deposit control.

What are the new standards being introduced In 2020?

When is the first license date for GF-6 and API SP?

GF-6A and GF-6B are the latest minimum standards implemented by ILSAC to ensure oils are meeting the needs of newer vehicles and new engine technology.

API SP is the new minimum engine oil standard developed to address the critical needs of today’s engines; including chain wear, low speed preignition, and deposit formation. API SP is the foundation for the ILSAC GF-6 specification but does not include fuel economy. API SP is available for viscosity grades.

Why is it happening?

Car manufacturers now require higher-quality oils to protect their latest generation engine designs, along with a need for lubricants to offer a greater contribution to fuel economy. ILSAC GF-6A and GF-6B improves upon the ILSAC GF-5 requirements in six areas: fuel economy and

May 1, 2020 – Valvoline says it is hard at work to be ready for launch.

When will Valvoline be ready? Does Valvoline meet ILSAC GF-6?

Valvoline expects its portfolio to be GF-6 ready before the first license date, and says it will move quickly to highlight these products once available.

Do you have an API SP and GF-6 action plan for your workshop?

You should expect to see OEM service bulletins and updated online owner’s manuals in 2020 that recommend ILSAC GF-6/API SP engine oils. Also, new 2021 model year vehicles will begin to be specify GF-6/API SP. Valvoline says it can help prepare your team and your customers on the change and what to expect.

For more information, contact Valvoline’s sales team on 1800 458 237 or its technical team on 1800 804 658.

CERAMIC MADE EASY Meguiar’s Hybrid Ceramic family expands With its super-easy ‘spray, rinse, dry and you’re done’ application, combined with protection and durability beyond conventional waxes, Meguiar’s says its Hybrid Ceramic Wax turned the car care industry on its head in 2019.

Until then, it says the long-lasting protective qualities of ceramic had been the domain of select professional detailers – with pricing to match. However, with it’s sophisticated SiO2 chemistry and simple spray format, Meguiar’s says its Hybrid Ceramic Wax “made ceramic easy.”

Now Meguiar’s is expanding the hybrid ceramic family with Meguiar’s Hybrid Ceramic Liquid Wax and Meguiar’s Hybrid Ceramic Detailer.

Meguiar’s Hybrid Ceramic Liquid Wax reportedly

takes the same cutting-edge, SiO2 hybrid technology, while delivering long-lasting protective qualities via a familiar, easy-to-use liquid formula. Simply wipe on a thin amount, let it cure for three to five minutes, and then wipe off.

No excessive rubbing, tricky application procedures or precise curing and removal requirements are needed while you still get the same protective, water beading layer which lasts months, not weeks.

Meguiar’s says it “invented the ‘spray detailer’ category back in 1981” with the launch of Trigger Wash.

Now, it says the Meguiar’s Hybrid Ceramic Detailer takes this concept to a new level by

combining the non-scratch cleaning of Meguiar’s spray detailers with Hybrid Ceramic Wax to gently and quickly remove light dust and contaminants while leaving behind a layer of hybrid ceramic protection that beads water “like crazy.”

For more information, visit www.meguiars.com.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2020

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LUBRICANTS, FLUIDS & CHEMICALS

ZF LIFEGUARDFLUID: MAXIMISING TRANSMISSION PERFORMANCE There’s nothing fluid about lubricants Careful consideration of the right oil for cars, SUVs, 4x4s, utes and light trucks can prove highly valuable in the long run, with the right oil offering a number of vehicle operational benefits including reduced fuel consumption, lower CO2 emissions and greater reliability over a vehicle’s life.

ZF warns that unapproved oils can also result in warranties being voided and potentially even lead to premature transmission failure.

Modern transmissions, one of ZF’s primary areas of expertise, are incredibly complex and require more than just any old oil.

Made specifically for ZF transmissions, ZF LifeguardFluid is a premium grade lubricant that headlines the ZF Aftermarket range of transmission oils.

ZF LifeguardFluid was developed to guarantee maximum transmission performance in all ways, so that passengers enjoy smoother gearshifts and the vehicle enjoys optimised fuel economy and reduced wear on components, thus decreasing maintenance and operating costs.

While ZF LifeguardFluid is the flagship of its lubricants offering in Australia, ZF Aftermarket

additionally markets a range of premium quality oils suited to the broad spectrum of vehicles on our roads.

These specialised ZF Aftermarket transmission lubricants contain a matched combination of high-quality base oils and special additives, which guarantees excellent lubrication and friction properties even under the most extreme of operating conditions.

The special additives work to provide a longer service life for all transmission components, delivering maximum fuel economy based on optimised viscosity as well as lower CO2 emissions.

ZF says its LifeguardFluid oils support perfect shifting behaviour, comparable to the level of a new car, and vibration-free operation.

ZF automatic transmissions* are generally filled with lifetime oil. However, due to the many factors influencing the service life of transmissions in individual operation, ZF recommends an oil change after 150,000 km for its transmissions.

In operating conditions with high temperatures and loads, or with unknown vehicle use in the past, it

can make sense to change the transmission oil at shorter intervals.

Transmission oils form the cornerstone of the service offering for ZF Aftermarket customers which includes everything you need for the maintenance and repair of your passenger car, SUV, 4x4, ute and light truck gearbox.

From new and exchange transmissions to clutches, components, oil change kits, genuine transmission spare parts and repair kits, ZF Aftermarket has the right solution.

ZF LifeguardFluid oils are available for 4, 5, 6, 8 and 9 speed applications in a variety of sizes, depending on the application.

For more information, visit www.zf.com/lubricants or call 1800 ZF SALES (1800 93 72537). *For Non-ZF transmissions of course the service specification of the vehicle manufacturer should also be considered.

CRC LAUNCHES NEW ADHESIVES RANGE CRC Industries Australia has introduced seven leading ADOS adhesives to its product portfolio CRC Industries Australia says ADOS is an iconic brand which was founded in New Zealand 60 years ago and purchased by CRC in 1996.

“Meeting the needs of the trade as well as the do-it-your-selfer, these high performance and innovative new products have put CRC at the pinnacle of specialist adhesives. Thanks to the addition of these new products, CRC Industries Australia’s Adhesives Range now includes contact adhesives and pipe cement for almost every possible application,” CRC Industries Australia Managing Director, Murray Walbran, said.

The new adhesive products to be introduced to the CRC Industries Australia portfolio of products are as follows.

• CRC F2 Multi-Purpose Contact Adhesive – a high performance general-purpose contact adhesive which is water resistant and flexible with a high bond strength which makes it ideal for a wide range of uses. CRC F2 is easily applied, highly versatile, durable and bonds instantly to most materials and substrates.

• CRC F3 Non-Drip Contact Adhesive – a thixotropic, high-strength contact adhesive 72

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2020

formulated to be non-spill and non-drip, providing greater control of application and better coverage. Its gel form makes it ideal for vertical and ceiling applications and for bonding onto porous surfaces.

• CRC PVC Pipe Cement – a general purpose, clear PVC adhesive which has been specially formulated for sealing and bonding joints in PVC guttering, conduit, waste bowls, standard low pressure pipe systems and more. It is a blend of three aggressive solvents with sufficient resin to provide a brushing consistency.

• CRC Multi Purpose Spray Adhesive – this adhesive bonds most materials quickly and easily, giving a long lasting bond. It is formulated to give a fast tack off, low soak spray and dries clear. It is a pressure sensitive one-way adhesive that remains repositionable for one to two minutes, eliminating costly errors with expensive materials.

• CRC Ultra High Strength Aerosol Adhesive – this product gives an immediate and permanent bond on a wide variety of surfaces.

It is formulated to give low soak, cure fast, dry

clear and be non-staining. It is plasticiser safe, easy to use with no clamping provided and boasts a high heat resistance of up to 75°C. • CRC Stuff Off Adhesive Remover – a powerful remover which has been designed to soften or dissolve most adhesives and paints as well as uncured laminating resins and uncured sealants. It also removes paint spills, graffiti, inks and grease and is ideal for use on metal, wood, fabric, carpet, stone, brick and steel surfaces.

• CRC MS High Performance Adhesive Sealant – a high performance, one-component neutral curing adhesive sealant based on MS Polymers.

It has excellent primer-less adhesion to all materials commonly used in the demanding building, construction and engineering industries.

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

FUTURE AUTO INNOVATIONS

CREATING SEAMLESS VEHICLE-TOEVERYTHING CONNECTIVITY What is true for people is also true for cars: communication works best with a common language and a good connection To enable connected and automated driving in the future, vehicles must be able to easily communicate with one another as well as with their surroundings.

There is currently no globally standardised technical basis for this exchange of data, which is known as vehicle-to-everything communication, or V2X. Instead, vehicles will in future communicate using the wide variety of different standards implemented by countries and vehicle manufacturers around the world.

“Bosch is taking a multi-standard approach when it comes to V2X. We have developed a universal connectivity unit capable of communicating using all of the transmission standards implemented in connected automobiles,” Robert Bosch GmbH Member of the Board of Management, Dr Dirk Hoheisel, said.

Bosch says the neat thing here is that it has combined connectivity units and telematics units, which individually are only capable of a single transmission technology, to create an all-in-one central control unit for V2X data communication.

Cars can then use the Wi-Fi networks available in cities, while elsewhere they can communicate using, for instance, cellular networks. The complex task of managing these diverse communication options is handled by a software solution from the Silicon Valley-based start-up Veniam.

It continuously searches for the best transmission technology that suits the particular requirements and switches automatically between the available alternatives. The software therefore maintains continuous and seamless vehicle connectivity, ensuring cars can, for example, reliably alert one another to accidents and passengers can enjoy uninterrupted music streaming.

Bosch develops a connectivity unit for all standards Bosch says it is expected that the number of connected vehicles on the roads in Europe, the United States, and China alone will exceed 470 million by 2025 (source: PwC).

Initially, most vehicles will connect directly to the cloud; but, thanks to V2X, increasing numbers of vehicles will in the future also be able to communicate directly with one another as well as with traffic signals, road construction sites, pedestrian crossings, buildings and more.

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They will then be able to alert one another to potential hazards like the approaching tail end of a traffic jam, accidents, and icy conditions.

Vehicles will also be able to take advantage of the green wave, because they will know when the next set of traffic lights is going to turn green. The vehicles can then adjust their speed accordingly.

Bosch says this ensures the traffic, particularly in cities, flows more smoothly. There is, however, no globally harmonized standard for V2X communication currently on the horizon. While China primarily uses Cellular-V2X technology (CV2X), which is based on mobile communications, Europe and the United States are planning to additionally introduce transmission standards based on Wi-Fi (DSRC and ITS-G5) alongside C-V2X. A mishmash of standards is therefore emerging internationally, says Bosch, which may lead to vehicle communication issues. However it says that will not be the case in the future when cars are equipped with the universal connectivity unit from Bosch.

It claims equipped vehicles will be able to communicate with one another as well as with their surroundings regardless of the vehicle make or the country in which they are used. This will make V2X communication even more secure and reliable, says Bosch.

“Thanks to Bosch’s all-in-one principle for connected vehicles, as many drivers as possible around the world can benefit from the added

safety, comfort, and convenience provided by V2X,” Dr Hoheisel said.

Software ensures the best connection Bosch explains the software from Veniam is the connection enhancer for the connectivity unit from Bosch.

As well as keeping an eye on which V2X communication technologies are currently available for use, the software also closely monitors the costs and data transmission latency of each alternative connection option, since not every technology is suitable in every situation.

For example, when it comes to alerting a driver to another vehicle that is about to pull out in front of them from a side street, every millisecond counts. This kind of critical information must be

FUTURE AUTO INNOVATIONS

communicated in real time using highly reliable technology that is always ready for use – even if that means the resulting data transmission costs are greater.

Software updates from the cloud or a navigation system map update, on the other hand, can be put on hold in that sort of situation until a lowcost stationary Wi-Fi network becomes available.

Large volumes of data can be transmitted via Wi-Fi in a short space of time, though a downside is that public or home Wi-Fi hotspots are not always available. Veniam’s software is familiar with the pros and cons of each of the communication types and always establishes the optimal connection.

“The unique combination of Veniam’s smart networking software and Bosch’s connectivity unit boosts the vehicle’s data-handling capacities dramatically, paving the way for innovative cloud services and much safer future mobility,” Veniam Found and Chief Executive Officer, João Barros, said.

On the occasion of the world’s biggest consumer electronics trade show, CES 2019 in Las Vegas, Bosch and Veniam were selected as CES 2019 Innovation Award Honorees in the “Vehicle Intelligence and Self-Driving Technology” category for their jointly developed solution.

this joint project, explaining that since February 2017, Bosch, Vodafone, and Huawei have been performing trials of the V2X communication with the first 5G test modules − the first companies in Europe to do so.

The A9 freeway in Bavaria north of Munich is the location for the field tests, which focus on real-time warning systems during lane changing manoeuvres on the freeway or in case the vehicle in front brakes suddenly.

and roadside infrastructure, cameras, and sensors in Detroit.

It says that test showcased Wi-Fi-based DSRC technology, where equipped vehicles were provided with in-vehicle notifications about the status of traffic signals ahead and pedestrians crossing the street – functions designed to enhance safety in city traffic.

It says V2X will also be able to make driver assistance functions even more comfortable, like adaptive cruise control (ACC).

In China, Bosch is also testing ad hoc communication using Wi-Fi as well as cellular technology. The tests are focusing on alerts that help the driver when overtaking or negotiating complex intersections.

Further, in the summer of 2018, Bosch tested secure, direct communication between vehicles

To learn more about this technology from Bosch, visit www.bosch-mobility-solutions.com

Bosch tests V2X in Europe, the United States, and China In the biggest European field trial to date (simTD, Safe Intelligent Mobility – Test Field Germany), Bosch says V2X communication has proven its suitability for daily use under everyday conditions and in lab simulations.

Bosch states it has played a significant role in Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2020

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TRADE TALK

LEAVING A SIGNIFICANT LEGACY Ray Smith Roberts, who recently announced his retirement from the AMA Group and AAAA’s 4WD Council, has left his mark on the Australian automotive aftermarket Ray Smith-Roberts became known as a kind of ‘Mr Fix It’ for his ability to right sinking ships in business. Through his uncanny ability to turn things around with simple philosophies and hard work, he will leave a significant legacy in the aftermarket sector thanks to the results he achieved as both a leader in the industry and via his role as long-time Chairman of the AAAA’s 4WD Council.

The likeable businessman was one of those types who was always going to end up working in the automotive industry.

His parents ran a number of petrol stations and automotive service centres in the Australian Capital Territory, so Ray often found himself helping out in the family business from a very early age.

“We still did driveway service and we had mechanics in the workshop and we didn’t make money out of Coke and ice creams and cigarettes; it was more about petrol and fixing cars back in those days, and I went through school working at the service stations on the weekends and after school,” Ray says.

After learning how to keep cars on the road in the family business, Ray’s first job out of school was working with the ACT Health Department where he helped to oversee the maintenance on a fleet of vehicles that included the Territory’s ambulances.

He began his automotive mechanical apprenticeship with the Health Department before moving onto the dealership scene with National Capital Motors, where he stayed for the next seven years.

It was at National Capital Motors that a trend began that would continue to occur in Ray’s life for the next few decades. He was tasked with the job of ‘fixing’ a Mitsubishi dealership that had sat dormant for 12 months.

After easily achieving this challenge, some of his family had moved from Canberra to Brisbane and Ray decided he wanted to do the same, so he applied for a job with East Coast Bullbars (ECB) as a Sales and Marketing Manager.

However, he quickly found himself being promoted to General Manager.

“When I joined it, it had 18 staff and was turning over about three million dollars a year, so it was quite small. I had come from a dealership where I was looking after multiple sites and I had 86 workshop staff and 45 parts staff; I was used to running a bigger business, so within about 12 months, I’d taken on the role as General Manager, then within another four years, I bought in as a shareholder,” Ray explains.

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It wasn’t long after that a businessman that he describes as “a Silicon Valley sort of guy” approached Ray. He wanted to purchase a number of smaller aftermarket businesses and put them together under the one umbrella. At the time the majority of the aftermarket sector was made up of smaller ‘mum and pop’ businesses mostly owned

by Baby Boomers who were looking to move on.

ECB was soon sold to what was to become AMA Group Ltd and Ray took a shareholding in the new parent company and signed up to run the ECB business for the group.

The foundation companies of the group were ECB, Dyno Dynamics, FluidDrive and Autolac.

On the surface things appeared to be going well with the new public company as it grew from four businesses to 12 in a short space of time, but Ray sensed something wasn’t quite right.

“I was busy getting on with running ECB and focusing on the great plans that I had for that… but it became pretty clear to me that what we were telling the world and what was real in terms of the underlying reality of the parent business were two different things,” Ray explains.

“This was 2009, the GFC was in full force and the tide went out a bit and the business had a lot of debt. The underlying companies were okay, but there’d been a lot of bad decisions made at a board and corporate level.”

Ray and another manager of one of the parent group’s businesses, Ray Malone of the Mr Gloss Group, called an emergency meeting of the parent company’s shareholders and demanded some facts.

They very quickly discovered that the parent company was effectively broke. Ray declared that

Ray Smith-Roberts they had two options – put the parent company into voluntary administration and make all of the subsidiary companies separate entities again, or fix the parent company. The latter option was selected, so Ray Smith-Roberts – who by now had developed a bit of a reputation as a ‘Mr Fix It’ for automotive businesses – and Ray Malone were given the task of leading the group’s revival.

Malone was appointed the Chairman while SmithRoberts eventually became the CEO. “We had to spend the first two or three years really just running it on the smell of an oily rag; we had a lot of debt,” Ray explains.

“There were 10 businesses, but we had to consolidate; we sold a couple of the businesses, we had to VA [put into voluntary administration] a couple of the businesses because they were that bad, so we went back to six companies.”

The six remaining companies were ECB, FluidDrive, Mr Gloss Group, KT Cables, Alanco and Perth Brake Parts.

“We moved forward with those six companies for the first few years and that’s what we built the foundation on and sort of kept growing and paid

TRADE TALK some debt down and got back to a stable operating situation,” Ray says.

A few years earlier Ray had joined the AAAA’s 4WD Industry Council and after being approached by one of the foundation members he was elected Chairman, a position he held until he resigned late last year.

Ray’s capabilities as ‘Mr Fix It’ have served the 4WD Industry Council well. An example of this was when the Council fought the introduction of a global regulation that could of seen bullbars completely banned under the guise of pedestrian safety. Had this regulation been passed it could have decimated the bullbar aftermarket industry overnight.

“We were moments away from a policy that would’ve seen protection bars effectively banned in Australia,” Ray states.

He says the respect that the AAAA and the 4WD Council in particular now has with regulators and authorities is his proudest legacy of his time serving the industry.

“We’re respected as a group of companies and we’re respected as an Association, so we now have dialogue with all of these stakeholders, whether they be state regulators, federal regulators or whether they be other industry stakeholders like the ANCAP,” Ray says.

So what is ‘Mr Fix It’s’ key philosophy to turn bad situations around?

“One thing I found is clear, really clear, and that is try to make things as specialised and as focused and as simple as possible, yet solve complex problems for people,” Ray says.

He holds up ECB as a classic case in point.

“ECB as a business is 50 years old next year, and for 50 years it’s been focused on manufacturing aluminium bullbars and today, that’s still what it does. The key of getting that business right was maintaining that specialisation. That is what has enabled me to keep profitable businesses that remain relevant and do not get lost in bad decisions – just focus on what you do really well and don’t lose sight of it.”

As well as stepping down from his role with the 4WD Council, Ray has also recently stepped down from the positions of CEO of the AMA Component and Accessories Division and Executive Director of the AMA Group.

Ray met his now wife 33 years ago and they have two children, a daughter (14) and a son (10).

He is extremely proud of his family and is keen to encourage them to have the same work ethic that his father instilled into him.

“Everything that I’ve achieved has been self learnt, so for me, it’s getting my children to understand that value set and getting them to appreciate what opportunities they have got. They’ve got an incredible opportunity, far more than I ever had,” Ray says.

So now that he has moved on from AMA and the 4WD Council, what does the future hold for Ray? “It’s been a 25 year journey and it was just time for a change; I’m only 50 and I’m too connected with this great industry to not be involved in it going forward,” Ray says.

“But first I’m going to have a few months off; just going to have a bit of a rest and spend a little bit of time with my family.”

An avid motorsport fan, Ray is super keen to help out with the Australian Super Utes category. It’s a

category that has been struggling to gain a foothold in the motorsport scene since the demise of the Australian manufactured Ford Falcon and Holden Commodore utes and a move by the category to diesel-powered imported utes, so right now it could certainly do with Ray’s ‘Mr Fix It’ abilities.

“I’m philanthropically helping those guys… I’ve taken on a role as a volunteer category manager for this year, just to help keep these guys on the track and we’re transitioning that from a diesel platform to a V8 platform,” Ray says.

“There’s a little bit of disappointment in that because it was nice to keep the production focus of it, but the reality is commercial diesel engines were never designed to be a motorsport race engine and the cost of making them motorsport ready is too prohibitive.

“Moving it to a V8-based category will liven up the action a bit; it will give it a bit more of a traditional flavour to the fan base and be a good combination of old and new.”

So what does ‘Mr Fix It’ think of the future of the automotive industry?

“There’s no doubt it will continue to change and evolve,” he believes.

“But the reality is, especially in Australia with the diversity of our landscape and the kilometres we have to cover, vehicles are still going to be the primary mode of transport.

“A large part of my career has been around equipping vehicles to make them fit to purpose; whatever we choose to propel them with, they’re still going to need to be made fit for purpose, so I think there is still a large opportunity and a future in accessorising vehicles and customising vehicles.

“We’ve been working with a petrol engine for well over a hundred years and we still haven’t got it right, I don’t think the electric propulsion is going to be perfect either and there’ll be a need for the aftermarket to continue to service, repair, improve, upgrade, and make fit for purpose; there’s plenty of opportunity. It may look a bit different, but it’s not going to go away.”

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2020

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IN THE WORKSHOP

SPREADING THE MESSAGE Our industry needs students with good STEM skills, so ARCA’s Mike Smith was pleased to present at a Teacher Professional Development Day recently In December I was invited to address a group of WA High School Teachers who deliver the Automotive Curriculum in some of the state’s Government and Private schools.

My presentation was part of a Teacher Professional Development Day held at Thornlie TAFE in Perth’s Southern Suburbs.

I decided to base part of my presentation around the Oscilloscope Training Course we have delivered twice around the Country.

For the second part of my presentation, I focused on scanning and programming technology, and with Autologic’s Matt Douglas fortunately in town, he was kind enough to lend me a scope and scanner for this purpose.

I initially spoke about how complicated the modern motor vehicle is and compared the lines of code in our F35 Joint Strike Fighter to the modern motor vehicle – they were blown away to learn that today’s cars can have so much more software code in them.

The teachers were then shown how an absolute compression test of all cylinders can be done in about 10 minutes, utilising a pressure sensor in one of the engine’s cylinders and an amp clamp on the starter motor cable.

As part of this, the teachers learned how the software measures the pressure in the cylinder with the calibrated pressure sensor and compares the current draw needed to compress that cylinder; and how it then uses its software to

calculate the pressure in the remaining cylinders based on current draw.

I then moved on to First Look Sensors and showed the group slides from real case studies which included: • Blocked petrol fuel injectors; • Diesel injector compression blow by; and • Camshaft and Crankshaft correlation.

The group was impressed to learn more about the modern scope and found that it is truly an amazing bit of equipment that can save time and accurately diagnose if a part is faulty.

They were pleased to learn that very little dismantling is required to carry out these tests and I quoted the example of using a scope for 15 minutes versus the potential five hours it could take to check Commodore Timing Chains following the OEM’s Service Instructions.

I went on to explain how the scanner can point you in the right direction and then the scope can pinpoint the fault, while also educating them about all of the online resources available on the Pico Website and also on YouTube which can help both teachers and students use technology to make their lives easier.

Matt then joined in on the fun to speak about Autologic’s Drive Pro Scanner and how it can not only read and scan a vehicle, but also allow a Master Tech to carry out the reprograming of vehicle modules remotely – thus eliminating the need for the technician to know the particular OEM’s programming protocols intimately.

Throughout our discussions with the teachers, it became quite clear that they were not particularly well resourced and a key example of this was their access to Coolant Test Trips.

Following the presentation, I contacted Castrol’s WA State Manager, Natalie Ellis, who kindly agreed to help out those schools that required assistance in a great example of our industry working together to help promote Automotive as an option for our young people.

I think it is clear that it can be only to our industry’s benefit to provide more support to our Automotive Teachers and interact with them a lot more than we are currently.

I hope that this presentation and similar ones I look forward to conducting in the future can go some ways towards furthering that communication and support with these vital stakeholders in our industry’s future.

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 78

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2020

HR

NEW ANNUAL SALARY AWARD PROVISIONS The Full Bench of the Fair Work Commission (FWC) has decided to insert new model annualised salary clauses in certain modern awards with effect from the start of the first full pay period on or after 1 March 2020 The change is aimed at reducing wage theft and non-compliance with modern awards.

Does this decision affect me?

This decision will affect employers paying annualised salaries to employees covered by a modern award with an annualised salary clause.

The Vehicle Manufacturing Repair Services and Retail Award is not one of the modern awards that will be affected. However, a model clause will be added to the Clerks – Private Sector Award 2010 (Clerks Award). For a full list of modern awards affected contact AAAA Employer Assist.

What are the changes?

The FWC has released draft determinations proposing that the existing clause addressing annualised wages in the Clerks Award will be replaced by the following: 17. Annualised wage arrangements 17.1 Annualised wage instead of award provisions (a) An employer may pay a full-time employee an annualised wage in satisfaction, subject to clause 17.1(c), of any or all of the following provisions of the award: (i) clause 16—Minimum weekly wages; (ii) clause 19—Allowances; (iii) clauses 27 and 28— Overtime and penalty rates; and (iv) clause 29.3—Annual leave loading

(b) Where an annualised wage is paid the employer must advise the employee in writing, and keep a record of: (i) the annualised wage that is payable; (ii) which of the provisions of this award will be satisfied by payment of the annualised wage; (iii) the method by which the annualised wage has been calculated, including specification of each separate component of the annualised wage and any overtime or penalty assumptions used in the calculation; and (iv) the outer limit number of ordinary hours which would attract the payment of a penalty rate under the award and the outer limit number of overtime hours which the employee may be required to work in a pay period or roster cycle without being entitled to an amount in excess of the annualised wage in accordance with clause 17.1(c).

(c) If in a pay period or roster cycle an employee works any hours in excess of either of the outer limit amounts specified pursuant to clause 17.1(b)(iv), such hours will not be covered by the annualised wage and must separately be paid for

in accordance with the applicable provisions of this award.

17.2 Annualised wage not to disadvantage employees

(a) The annualised wage must be no less than the amount the employee would have received under this award for the work performed over the year for which the wage is paid (or if the employment ceases earlier over such lesser period as has been worked).

(b) The employer must each 12 months from the commencement of the annualised wage arrangement or upon the termination of employment of the employee calculate the amount of remuneration that would have been payable to the employee under the provisions of this award over the relevant period and compare it to the amount of the annualised wage actually paid to the employee. Where the latter amount is less than the former amount, the employer shall pay the employee the amount of the shortfall within 14 days.

(c) The employer must keep a record of the starting and finishing times of work, and any unpaid breaks taken, of each employee subject to an annualised wage arrangement for the purpose of undertaking the comparison required by clause 17.2(b). This record must be signed by the employee, or acknowledged as correct in writing (including by electronic means) by the employee, each pay period or roster cycle.

17.3 Base rate of pay for employees on annualised wage arrangements For the purposes of the NES, the base rate of pay of an employee receiving an annualised wage under this clause comprises the portion of the annualised wage equivalent to the relevant rate of pay in clause 16—Minimum weekly wages and excludes any incentive-based payments, bonuses, loadings, monetary allowances, overtime and penalties.

In summary, employers will be obligated to: 1. Calculate the annual salary in accordance with the clause; 2. Advise the employee in writing (and keep a record of) the annual salary including the provisions of the modern award which are satisfied by the annual salary, the method of calculating the annual salary and the outer limit of hours for which the employee is compensated under the annual salary; 3. Pay the employee (in addition to the annual salary) for any hours worked in excess of the outer limits in accordance with the modern award;

4. Keep a record of start, finish and break times and have the employee sign or acknowledge in writing the record in each pay or roster cycle.

5. Audit the annual salary every 12 months and pay any shortfall within 14 days.

How can I prepare?

Prior to 1 March 2020, employers who pay annualised salaries should: 1. Familiarise themselves with the new model clause; 2. Consider how the model clause impacts their existing arrangements; 3. Consider and update employment contracts for compliance; 4. Consider and update payroll practices including introducing new systems (e.g. that record start, finish and break times) for compliance.

Important Update – Modern Award Review As part of the Fair Work Commission’s four yearly review of modern awards, there will be significant variations to the Vehicle Manufacturing, Repair, Services and Retail Award 2010 (Vehicle Award) The vehicle manufacturing stream of the Vehicle Award will be incorporated into the Manufacturing and Associated Industries and Occupations Award 2010.

A range of technical and drafting issues will also be resolved in the revised Vehicle Award. While the revised drafts are still being considered, variation determinations will commence operation on 4 May 2020.

Employer Assist will update members on these variations.

If you have any questions in the meantime, contact Employer Assist to discuss.

Need assistance?

AAAA Employer Assist can assist members with modern award compliance. Please contact AAAA Employer Assist on 1300 735 306.

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2020

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CONSUMER LAW

WAS/NOW PRICE COMPARISONS Displaying was/now price comparisons when discounting products, including services, are a great way to promote your business However, it is important to remember that if was/ now price comparisons do not comply with the Australian Consumer Law (ACL) penalties may be imposed.

What is a was/now price comparison?

A was/now price comparison compares the ‘was’ price of a product with a discounted ‘now’ price to show consumers the saving they will achieve by purchasing the product at the discounted price.

The was/now price comparison can take several forms for example: Was/now

Was $200

Strikethrough

Now $150

$200 $150

Other (the ‘was’ $150 price is $200 in $150 these examples)

Save $50 Save 25 percent

How can was/now price comparisons contravene the ACL? False or misleading was/now price comparisons will contravene the ACL. A was/now price comparison will likely comply with the ACL if it can be proven that the saving to the consumer claimed by the business is achieved (for example, using the above example, the saving claim is $50).

In deciding if the saving claim is achieved the central query is if the ‘was’ price is the price a consumer would have paid for the product for a reasonable amount of time before the ‘now’ price sale. If so, it is likely the was/now price comparison is ACL compliant. However, other factors may impact on whether a business can prove the saving claim was achieved.

For example: • if the business engages in the practice of regular discounting (so that products are sold below the ticketed price); and/or • if the product was rarely or never sold at the ‘was’ price before the ‘now’ price sale.

In these circumstances it may be difficult for the business to prove the ‘was’ price is the price the consumer would have paid for the product for a reasonable amount of time before the ‘now’ price sale by using sales records. This means there would be a risk to the business in making the was/ now price comparison representations, because the business would need to rely on evidence other than sales records to prove the saving claim.

What is a reasonable amount of time the product should have been sold at the ‘was’ price?

This will vary depending on the market, product type and how often the price is changed for 80

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the product or price changes occur within the market. As an example, the Federal Court in ACCC v Jewellery Group Pty Ltd [2012] FCA 848 found that four months was a reasonable period of time within which to prove a product had been sold at the ‘was’ price in a jewellery store that had several sales per year. As noted, this may vary depending on the product and/or the market.

Discount prices only for a limited amount of time It is also important to ensure that products are discounted for a limited period of time. This is because if a product is priced at a discounted sale price longer than a reasonable amount of time, then the discounted sale price essentially becomes the selling price of the product. Meaning that the product can no longer be considered on sale and the original pre-discount price could only be used in a was/now price comparison if the product is sold at the original pre-discount price for a reasonable amount of time.

Compliance guidance Following the below guidelines may assist the business to comply with the ACL when engaging in was/now price comparisons.

1. Do not create false ‘was’ prices. For example, if a product is priced at $200 before a sale the ACL will be contravened if the business gives any of the following price comparisons: a. Was $250 Now $200, $250 $200, $200 Save $50 or $200 Save 20 percent. b. Was $300 Now $250, $300 $250, $250 Save $50 or $250 Save 16.7 percent.

2. Ensure that the product is offered to consumers at the ‘was’ price for a reasonable amount of time before the ‘now’ price comparison is represented to consumers.

3. Do not discount prices for more than a reasonable amount of time as the discounted price may become the actual price of the product.

4. If the product is displayed at a discounted price before being discounted again the business should not use was/now pricing directly comparing the original ticket price with the further discounted price (use wording such as ‘a further 20%/$X off’ instead).

5. If engaging in was/now price comparisons check sales records to see if the business is in a position to prove the saving claim by showing the product was sold at the ‘was’ price for a reasonable amount of time before the sale (keep the information in a file).

Non-Compliance If was/now advertising is not compliant with the ACL, the following may apply: • the ACCC may issue an infringement notice, carrying a financial penalty of 60 penalty units for a body corporate (currently totaling $12,600), and 12 penalty units for an individual (currently totaling $2,520); • the court may impose a maximum criminal or civil penalty for a body corporate of up to the greater of $10 million, three times the value gained or if this can’t be determined, then 10% of the annual turnover of the body corporate in the 12 month period before the act, or for an individual up to $500,000; • Non-punitive orders may also be made, such as corrective advertising and the establishment of a compliance program.

Takeaways The key takeaways are: • ensure a product is sold at the ‘was’ price for a reasonable period before making a was/now price comparison representation; • if a product has a discounted price for more than a limited time that price effectively becomes the actual price of the product.

• take steps to ensure that your business is in a position to prove was/now price comparison saving claim is achieved.

AAAA Member Benefits Industry Legal Group provides advice to members on commercial law matters.

If you have any questions relating to the above article, please contact Industry Legal Group on 1300 369 703 or aaaa@industrylegalgroup.com.au

INSIDE INVENTORY

MANAGING RUN RATES Two overs to go. Just twelve to get. It ought to be comfortable…

The likely win has been helped by big hitting in the early and middle overs by Ellyse Perry and Alyssa Healy who certainly set things up for the run home.

But what if it was two overs to go and 27 to get?

Now, that would be much harder.

Inevitably that sort of predicament leads to other questions like “were they too aggressive early?

Did they take too many risks?”

You do not want to push too hard and lose too many wickets. Equally, you cannot be so timid that you make the final chase just too hard. You have to strike the right balance, and use every strategy, every player and every ball to best effect.

Cricket, like many sports these days, is replete with statistics. They are entertaining and informative to spectators but really smart teams use them to create winning game plans.

On track or not?

Inventory management is also very much a game of run rates and making the right plays consistently over time. If you sell more than you are receiving, you will inevitably run down your inventory and may well stock out.

If it wasn’t the forecast, then did you order what was being recommended? Did you follow the game plan? Or did your supplier simply fail to execute?

If you look back over the data, you can reconstruct the sequence of events that led to your current predicament. Was it the supplier who failed to deliver some two to three months ago, or did you fail to even order and then you did not realise your problem until it was too late?

And celebrate And it does not hurt to then raise your bat as you achieve your milestones and make your KPIs.

Learn to play better

And if your sales are less than expected, then you may create excess and maybe even the potential to write off stock.

However in either case, the current situation is very likely a result of the cumulative effect of multiple past decisions. If you order monthly, and you have lead times of say, four months, then you will have at least four orders to get right in order to stay on track, and not be too high or too low.

You can be low in one month or a bit high in another. That is OK. It is the nature of a fairly random process that you will hardly ever be perfect. However if you are consistently short on the stock being received then you will have problems. Why might that have occurred?

Why not?

Did you forecast enough demand? Well, not quite enough, but you might have been close. So in this case forecasting does not seem to have been a primary cause of the problem.

Good sporting teams do not of course go on a witch hunt to find the culprit. They support fellow players who will from time to time falter. Like the best management teams, they seek out the cause and aim to reduce or eliminate it in the future.

To answer these sorts of questions, you need to record the past events and decisions and be able to play them back to help you learn and improve.

With a network of hundreds of thousands and even millions of SKU locations, that can be many megabytes of data.

However, the value of the data can be very large and very real, and we have multiple techniques that can help you tease out the lessons from your past.

You can forensically determine where your problems were and still are. Do you need to focus on improving forecasts? Are your plans too conservative? Are you biased too much to avoiding excess? Should you take some more risks and improve your inventory utilisation? Is your purchasing team following the game plan? If not, why not? What can you change to take your game to a new level?

Improving the way your supply chain and inventory management works requires discipline and application. So enjoy the moments of achievement, but then remember that you need to take centre again, take a deep breath and renew your concentration – there are more runs to make, and more rewards to win.

As it happens, we have something to celebrate with this article too. It is our 50th. So maybe it is a good time to look back over some of the past articles and see if you can pick up some lessons from the past there too.

There are many inventory management initiatives that are described in those articles that will you not find elsewhere, indeed anywhere. Do you want to take your game to a new level?

For further information consult www.horizoninventory.com.au or email info@horizoninventory.com.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2020

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4WD

PIRANHA RELEASES 2019 PRODUCT GUIDE The 18th edition of the guide has been released by Piranha’s new owner The new owner of Piranha Off Road Products, McNaughtans Pty Ltd, says it is turning the Piranha Off Road business and workshop into a onestop 4WD, caravan, and camper touring mecca.

As part of this, the showroom has been revamped to include a “massive” range of new products which are all listed in the new 2019 Product Guide.

With over 30 years behind it, Piranha traditionally has supplied a range of touring products, from dual battery kits to lighting, fridges and solar kits.

In line with becoming a mecca for 4WD and touring products, Piranha says its new catalogue reflects an increased range of gear available, including a “massive” range of AP LED high performance driving lights and light bars to match Piranha’s specialty lighting looms.

Blue Max suspension kits by Piranha are another product set to change how customers can set up their vehicles properly from the get-go with this range of suspension now being fitted onsite at Piranha.

A new range of Piranha fibreglass canopies are also available and are a practical way to secure tools and other valuable items. Piranha steel and aluminium trays are another new product Piranha says will excite those who need a tough product which will stand the test of time.

The new 2019 Product guide also covers information on how to work out a dual battery management system to suit individual needs as well as fridges and fridge slides plus a raft of other accessories.

A printed copy of the Product Guide can be picked up from Piranha Off Road at Fac. 4, 383 Dorset Road Boronia, or visit the website to read or download the PDF. For more information, call 03 9762 1200 or visit www.piranhaoffroad.com.au or Piranha’s growing Facebook page.

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NARVA EXPLORA 175 LED DRIVING LIGHTS LAUNCHED Narva says it is bringing its ‘Explora’ technology and value to the new LED Driving Lights With Narva’s recently expanded ‘Explora’ LED Driving Light Bar enjoying a strong uptake from the market, Narva says the time was right for it to apply its ‘Advanced Optic Drive Technology’ and other Explora benefits to a new LED driving light.

The new Narva Explora 175 LED Driving Lights have recently been introduced and Narva says they provide up to 20 percent brighter light (3800 lumens and one Lux of light at 535 metres), compared to more traditional 175mm free form LED driving lights.

Narva says the impressive light output per pair is produced by 15W XHP50.2 Cree LEDs, with the light being boosted by clever Optic Drive technology which works by capturing and better focusing the light in a more controlled manner, eliminating wasted light and focusing the beam where the driver needs it most.

The mounting hardware and brackets are made of stainless steel allowing for easy fitment to bull bars and nudge bars and installation is also made easier with the three-pin DT connector included.

Further benefits of these lights include a low current draw of just 1.8A per lamp (3.6A at 12V per pair) and EMC approval (ECE R10).

Despite the added light the Explora 175 LED Driving Lights produce, enhancing the night time driving experience for owners, the new lights come at what Narva states is an attractive price point, making them ideal for a wide range of passenger cars, SUVs and 4x4s.

Narva says owners installing driving lamps for the first time may wish to take advantage of Narva’s comprehensive 12V Wiring Harness (Part No. 74404) which is available at an additional cost. This kit includes an On/Off rocker switch with a red LED indicator, premium three-pin DT waterproof connectors suitable for driving lights with position light function and a prewired relay and fuse holder with 15A fuse. For added convenience, the kit is suitable for both positively or negatively switched vehicles via manual change over leads.

Other benefits include a modern and compact design (600g weight per lamp) and an integrated ‘signature’ LED position light pipe ensuring the lights looks smart as well as being practical.

Another accessory available to reduce the potential damage from stones and branches is a hard-coated, virtually unbreakable polycarbonate lens protector (Part No. 72219).

As with all Narva lights, Narva says the Explora 175s are engineered and built to last, featuring a fully sealed design to IP67, a Nitto breather vent, virtually unbreakable polycarbonate housings and hard-coated lenses. Additionally, the lights feature a pressure, die-cast aluminium heatsink and Active Thermal Management System (ATMS) to keep the LED chipset cool.

Narva’s Explora 175 LED Driving Lights are backed by a generous five-year LED warranty and can be purchased along with associated accessories from leading automotive and transport outlets throughout Australia at approximately $299.00 per kit.

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

4WD

HSP STOCKS FULL LDV RANGE A full range of HSP products for the LDV are now available Featured in the range are the Silverback hard lid, Electric Roll R Cover, Loadslide, tailgate central locking and tailgate assist struts.

HSP LDV Electric Roll R Cover HSP says its Roll R Cover pushes the boundaries of traditional covers and offers a secure, versatile and practical cover fit for the LDV T60.

Not only is the unit electric, but the HSP Roll R cover can work with LDV black or chrome bars, crossbars and is even compatible with a ladder rack system while offering one of the most compact canisters and “second to none” water protection.

HSP LDV Load Slide Sick of hurting your knees from climbing in and out of your tub? Experiencing shoulder and back pain from awkwardly having to put your load in and out of your tub? HSP says its Load Slide is a purpose-built retractable bed slide and each unit has an entirely custom cut platform, contouring to your LDV T60 and designed to give better access and management of your cargo.

HSP LDV Silverback Lid The HSP SilverBack Range is a brand-new line of hard lids from HSP. Designed for the user that wants a multipurpose cover offering “outstanding security, visual aesthetics and load-carrying capability at a costeffective price.”

While this is not compatible with factory sports bars, you can add Rhino Crossbars for enhanced load capacity.

HSP LDV Tailgate Central locking HSP says it is often asked: “my LDV already has tailgate central locking... doesn’t it?” It explains that the answer is a simple ‘no.’

With the HSP tail lock, you can sleep easy knowing that when your car is locked, so is your tailgate.

The company says its HSP Tail Lock is a truly revolutionary product allowing you to sync your tailgate with your existing vehicle remote.

Further, it requires no drilling, just plug and play.

HSP LDV Tail Assist HSP says its Tail Assist doesn’t just help you, it also helps those around you. Tailgates are heavy and fall at a destructive speed, which means they can easily injure yourself and the people around you.

Tail assist by HSP is an innovative product designed to reduce the heaviness of the LDV tailgate. The advanced HSP Tail Assist works via a twin strut system that effortlessly dampens the drop of the tailgate reduces weight while inclining.

For more information, visit www.hsputelids.com

ARB RELEASES NEW DUALZONE FRIDGE FREEZER ARB launched the new product at SEMA If you are looking for a new way to keep the cans cold and your meals frozen, ARB says you should look no further than its new Zero Fridge Freezer, recently released at SEMA. Having both fridge and freezer space at the one time means you can travel for longer periods without restocking.

Available in sizes including 69L and 96L, the Zero Fridge Freezer can be installed in your car, camper trailer or caravan with ease thanks to the side opening, quick-release lid to swap openings, and front and rear DC inlets.

For extra convenience, the fridge also features a front AC inlet for home or powered site connection and a handy USB outlet to charge your devices.

Both sizes of the Zero Fridge Freezer have dual cooling zones independently controlled via the panel on the front or wirelessly via the app on compatible bluetooth-enabled devices.

The Zero Fridge Freezer has boost function for rapid cool down and anticondensation technology to keep contents dry and at the temperature you need.

The 69L retails from $1,599.00 and the 96L from $1,799.00. Stock is available now from your local ARB store or stockist.

For more information, visit www.arb.com.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2020

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INDUSTRY AWARENESS

CHANGE IS COMING In this article, 2019 AAAA Outstanding Service Industry Award winner Maurice Donovan talks about future proofing your business 2019 has been a good year for me and I feel blessed to be involved in an industry that has shown me such respect and honour for my small part I play.

The repair industry can be difficult at times especially in this changing technology environment we now live in, but it can also open the door to so many opportunities if we choose to embrace these changes.

While modern technology is a game changer, the role of on-board computers with all the software we now find in our modern vehicles along with the data generated by an increased number of sensors will continue to grow exponentially with advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), autonomous driving systems (ADS) and other automotive technology applications and advancements. This will no doubt disrupt the way we service our cars.

As such, I must ask the question to the many business owners, technicians, and service advisers reading this magazine: what have you done to future proof your business?

Does your business plan address the threat of disruption caused by the wave of modern technology that is here and that is coming our way?

Do you have a network of other similar businesses and likeminded technicians that you can draw support from when needed?

Do you have fit and proper staff or if not at least access to highly skilled people who are trained in the way you now service and diagnose modern vehicles?

Do you have the necessary tooling and equipment needed for the servicing, maintenance and diagnostics of our modern vehicles that we are now

seeing and will be seeing in the near future coming through our doors?

Do you have the expertise needed to correctly use the above-mentioned tooling and equipment?

Are you able to compete with the dealerships, where the manufacturers are using every trick in the book to retain their customers for at least seven years?

And the last question and probably the most important question, are you charging enough so you can invest in all the essential tooling, equipment and training so your businesses can be in a better position for the future?

Now my questions are not meant to suggest that I tick all the boxes and have all the answers, because I don’t!

But I do know changes in our industry are already impacting our businesses and will intensify over the next few years. I also know too little too late has been done to prepare our industry for what is inevitable.

Despite my concerns, it is not all doom and gloom.

Changes are not always a bad thing and with change comes new innovating opportunities – we just have to be ready and prepared.

And it is not to say our industry has been idle, our recent win on mandatory data sharing thanks to the efforts of the AAAA and many of you who hosted your local MPs to visit your workshops has made a huge impact, and we now have our government announcing a much needed mandatory vehicle data sharing new legislation that will hopefully pass through parliament this year (2020).

The AAAA and ARCA have been working very hard alongside Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) America, to bring to our country a much-

needed accreditation system for our industry. This accreditation has the potential to drive up our skill levels and to give our consumers a way to determine the skill levels of their preferred service provider.

We have seen a roll out of ARCA/TAT training courses around our country with more on the way. The MTAQ has a first class training facility offering many different training courses, including beginners and advanced Hybrid and electric vehicle training. There is also Clinton Brett’s Diesel Help Training, Repco’s Autotech training nights, and many other trainers who offer advanced training to our industry.

This is only to mention a few of the positives, but even still much more is needed. For our survival I believe we need manufacturer level training, something that is normal in Europe and America.

We need to have our eyes open to what is available overseas but until now this has been withheld from us here in Australia.

Admittedly we are soon to see more opportunities offered by our automotive manufacturers as they will be forced by law to share this info with us. But are we prepared for it?

Are we ready and skilled enough to use this data and software? Do we have the expertise that is needed so we can be efficient in offering dealer level servicing to our customers?

The short answer is No! And that goes for me too guys. But the long answer is Yes! That is provided we are prepared to be educated and to invest in the correct tooling and then grow our knowledge with experience; we can then achieve the level of expertise we need as we service and repair our customers’ modern vehicles.

Changes are not always bad, just different, as Dr Brett Dale, the Chief Executive Officer of MTAQ has said, the old saying ‘Business as normal’ is no longer applicable as there is nothing normal about the way we do business in today’s digital world of highly technical modern technology.

Until next time, Maurice Donovan

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