Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine - February 2022

FEBRUARY 2022

ALL THE LATEST ON FLUIDS, LUBRICANTS AND CHEMICALS

AAAEXPO SET TO DELIVER SUPERB SEMINAR PROGRAM

HAND TOOLS & DIAGNOSITICS: KEEPING ON TOP OF TECHNICAL NUANCES

ABOUT THE COVER Proudly Australian owned and operated, Tridon has been a leading supplier to the automotive aftermarket for more than 40 years

REGULAR DEPARTMENTS Calendar.................................................... 6 New Members........................................... 6 AAAA Report ............................................ 8 News......................................................... 9 Products.................................................. 34

Consumer Law......................................... 96 HR Matters.............................................. 97 4WD........................................................ 98 Shopfront.............................................. 100

15

KEEPING YOU INFORMED AAAEXPO set to deliver superb Seminar Program................................................................. 9 Show your apprentices your appreciation........................................................................... 10 New Year, New Data.......................................................................................................... 11 BAPCOR issues CEO and MD succession update................................................................ 12 Automechanika Dubai 2021 comes to successful end........................................................ 15 New distribution center for GPC Asia Pacific...................................................................... 16 GUD to acquire APG.......................................................................................................... 19 Australia’s Next Top Model: The Toyota Hilux..................................................................... 24

30

FEATURES Cover Story: Tridon leading the way in high performance wiper blades................................ 26 Technofile: IVS 360 team supports customer with BMW Regeneration Failure Fault........... 28 Product R&D: Transformed by Milwaukee.......................................................................... 30 Member Feature: ADRAD - Thriving in the winds of change................................................ 76 Lubricants, Fluids & Chemicals: All the latest on fluids, lubricants and chemicals............... 78 Hand Tools & Diagnositics: Keeping on top of technical nuances....................................... 88 Trade Talk: Rapid Tune Chief Executive Officer Mark Rippon - Leading from the Front........ 94

88

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

NEW MEMBERS

CALENDAR 2022 Australian Auto Aftermarket Expo 2022 Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre 7 – 9 April 2022 www.aftermarketexpo.com.au Taipei AMPA Taipei Nangang Exhibition Hall 1, 1st Floor 20 – 23 April 2022 www.taipeiampa.com.tw Automechanika Ho Chi Minh City Saigon Exhibition and Convention Center (SECC) 29 June - 1 July 2022 www.automechanika-hcmc.com Automechanika Frankfurt Frankfurt am Main 13 – 17 September 2022 www.automechanika.messefrankfurt.com Automechanika Dubai Dubai World Trade Centre 22 – 24 November 2022 www.automechanikadubai.com Automechanika Shanghai National Exhibition and Convention Center (Shanghai) 1 – 4 December 2022 www.automechanika-shanghai.com Performance Racing Industry Show Indiana Convention Center, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA 8 – 10 December 2022 www.performanceracing.com/trade-show/

4x4 Excellence 3/ 227 Leitches Road BRENDALE QLD 4500 Ph: 07 3881 3434 E: info@4x4excellence.com.au AJAY Mechanical 65 Butler Street RICHMOND VIC 3121 Ph: 03 9429 9553 E: ajaymechanic@outlook.com Autophix Australia 8/ 61-65 Russell Street WERRIBEE VIC 3030 Ph: 0403 037 222 E: trev@autophixaustralia.com.au Ballina Rego & Mechanical Centre 16 Sheather Street BALLINA NSW 2478 Ph: 02 6686 9092 E: ballinarmc@gmail.com Bendigo Service Centre 118A Hattam Street BENDIGO VIC 3550 Ph: 03 5444 5484 E: john@bendigoservicecentre.com Best West Autoglass 28 Blaxland Road CAMPBELLTOWN NSW 2560 Ph: 02 9188 7870 E: jay@bestwestautoglass.com.au Bosch Car Service Bacchus Marsh 4 Graham Street BACCHUS MARSH VIC 3340 Ph: 03 5367 4300 E: pmance@alanmance.com.au Bosch Car Service Clyde North 1/ 17 Gower Place CLYDE NORTH VIC 3978 Ph: 03 5926 0831 E: A1autoworks@hotmail.com Bosch Car Service Essendon Fields 325 Wirraway Road ESSENDON FIELDS VIC 3041 Ph: 03 9374 2888 E: harry.arora@essendonholden.com.au Bosch Car Service Grovedale 1/ 13 Wilray Street GROVEDALE VIC 3216 Ph: 03 9759 2428 E: admin@boschacmotors.com.au Bosch Car Service Malaga Unit 3, 10 Midas Road MALAGA WA 6090 Ph: 08 9249 3841 E: info@ianjefferymotors.com.au Bosch Car Service Tapping Unit 3, 1369 Wanneroo Road WANNEROO WA 6065 Ph: 08 6116 8106 E: reception@boschc.com.au Bosch Car Service Yeerongpilly 103D/ 49 Station Road YEERONGPILLY QLD 4105 Ph: 07 3217 1811 E: office@mahajansm.com Brashas Workshop 41 Camuglia Street GARBUTT QLD 4814 Ph: 07 4774 3826 E: brad@brashasworkshop.com.au

Brian Swain Automotive 29 Beach Street KIPPA RING QLD 4021 Ph: 07 3284 2311 E: brian@brianswainautomotive.com.au C & M Motoring Factory 15, 3-11 Bate Close PAKENHAM VIC 3810 Ph: 03 5941 6777 E: candmmotoring@gmail.com Callington Pty Ltd 30 South Street RYDALMERE NSW 2116 Ph: 02 9898 2700 E: lrizzolo@callington.com Connect 4 Automotive 11 Earl Street AIRPORT WEST VIC 3042 Ph: 03 9330 3455 E: volksrepair@m2data.com.au Dan Armstrong Automotive Unit 1, 37 Dalton Street KIPPA-RING QLD 4021 Ph: 0427 062 766 E: danarmautomotive@gmail.com Darebin Tyre & Service Centre 170 Grange Road FAIRFIELD VIC 3078 Ph: 03 9499 7522 E: info@darebintyreandservice.com.au DK International Motors 6/ 7-9 Heatherdale Road RINGWOOD VIC 3134 Ph: 0422 483 224 E: autodk@hotmail.com Dynamic Autocare Plus 41A Hay Road DAYBORO QLD 4521 Ph: 07 3425 1556 E: service@dacp.com.au Dyno Innovations 1 Station Street DANDENONG VIC 3175 Ph: 03 9793 9113 E: mike@dynoinnovations.com.au Eason’s Car Centre 11 Elsworth Street BALLARAT VIC 3350 Ph: 03 5332 1013 E: paul@easons.com.au Eiffel Lubricants Warehouse 2, 17 Prosperity St TRUGANINA VIC 3029 Ph: 03 9394 1079 E: sayeed@eiffellubricants.com.au EPARTS Member Solution Pty Ltd W10, 45 Green Street BANKSMEADOW NSW 2019 Ph: 0416 327 188 E: li@eparts.cn Euro Auto Moto Unit 4, 21 Perpetual Street TRUGANINA VIC 3029 Ph: 03 8316 1030 E: euaumoto@gmail.com

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

Mark Pedder Chairman 6

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2022

Michael Carnemolla (NSW) 313 Automotive Pty Ltd Ph: 02 9713 9476

Darren Robinson (VIC), HELLA Australia Pty Ltd Ph: 1800 061 729

Craig Magill (VIC), Burson Automotive Pty Ltd Ph: 03 9914 5555

Peter Rogers (VIC) Repco Authorised Service Ph: 0428 896 597

Adam Pay (NSW), mycar Tyre & Auto Service Ph: 02 9680 6500

Graham Scudamore-Smith (QLD) Fulcrum Suspensions Pty Ltd Ph: 07 3892 9000

AAAA NEWS

Euro-Aus Automotive Pty Ltd 3/ 128 Steel Street CAPALABA QLD 4157 Ph: 07 3823 2882 E: info@euro-aus.com.au Fratelli Motors 22 Second Avenue BOX HILL NORTH VIC 3129 Ph: 03 9890 4107 E: fratellimotors22@gmail.com Future Auto Service Centre Kedron 35 Kitchener Road KEDRON QLD 4031 Ph: 07 3350 4079 E: kedron@futureauto.com.au G & D Baird Mechanical 34 Musgrave Road COOPERS PLAINS QLD 4108 Ph: 0419 645 765 E: bairdysgarage@hotmail.com German Auto Werk Unit 9, 277 - 289 Middleborough Road BOX HILL SOUTH VIC 3128 Ph: 0437 301 583 E: rod@a3automotive.com.au Global Prestige Motors 32 Webb Road AIRPORT WEST VIC 3042 Ph: 03 9310 3916 E: globalprestigemotors@gmail.com Going Off Road Unit 6, 4 Vesper Drive NARRE WARREN VIC 3805 Ph: 0439 392 841 E: gor4x4@gmail.com Heidelberg Automotive Repairs 2A Thames Street HEIDELBERG HEIGHTS VIC 3081 Ph: 03 9458 4555 E: gary@heidelbergautomotive.com.au Hemco Industries 118 Learmonth Street BALLARAT VIC 3353 Ph: 03 5334 1011 E: scott@hemco.com.au J & V Warren-Smith 145 Union Road SURREY HILLS VIC 3127 Ph: 03 9890 9436 E: wsa145union@gmail.com Jag & British Prestige Service 7 Eugene Terrace RINGWOOD VIC 3134 Ph: 03 9870 8280 E: enquiries@jagbritishservice.com.au Jurien Bay Mechanical 26 Dryandra Boulevarde JURIEN BAY WA 6516 Ph: 0427 084 507 E: info@jurienmechanicial.com.au Laurie Ogle Motors 6 Mercer Street GEELONG VIC 3220 Ph: 03 5229 9033 E: laurieoglemotors@bigpond.com Master Instruments 13 Sheridan Close MILPERRA NSW 2214 Ph: 02 9519 1200 E: pault@master-instruments.com.au Microhouse Australia 2/288 Newmarket Road WILSTON QLD 4051 Ph: 07 3856 0844 E: john@microhouse.com.au Mitchell Drysdale Auto Electrician 8 Sanders Street KORUMBURRA VIC 3950 Ph: 0400 454 161 E: mitchelldrysdale@gmail.com Moller’s Mechanical Pty Ltd 4/ 23 Richland Avenue COOPERS PLAINS QLD 4108 Ph: 07 3555 5129 E: service@mollers.com.au MSA Automotive 5 Rohs Road BENDIGO VIC 3550 Ph: 0480 219 393 E: msaautomotivebendigo@yahoo.com

NEW MEMBERS

Nash Advisory 356 Collins Street MELBOURNE VIC 3000 Ph: 0432 815 362 E: paul@nashadvisory.com.au North Geelong Service Centre 1/ 9 Shepherd Court NORTH GEELONG VIC 3215 Ph: 03 5277 0121 E: info@northgeelongservicecentre.com.au Northern BM Automotive 200 Grange Road FAIRFIELD VIC 3078 Ph: 03 9499 3088 E: john@northernbm.com.au Partly.com 98, Redwood Christchurch 8051 New Zealand E: hanafi@partly.com Pippin Motor Repairs 42 Jackson Court DONCASTER EAST VIC 3109 Ph: 03 9848 1511 E: nicholasmenchise@gmail.com PPB Automotive Services 10 Thompson Street ABBOTSFORD VIC 3067 Ph: 03 9428 9655 E: service@pickardsautomotive.com.au Prestige Car Service Centre 15 – 17 Queens Avenue HAWTHORN VIC 3122 Ph: 03 9818 4555 E: gen@prestigecar.com.au Purely Prestige Automotive Unit 7, 7-8 Len Thomas Place NARRE WARREN VIC 3805 Ph: 03 9704 5555 E: purelyprestige@gmail.com Repco Authorised Service Bairnsdale (Platinum Service Centre) 1/ 29 Rovan Place BAIRNSDALE VIC 3875 Ph: 0492 935 264 E: info.psc83@gmail.com Repco Authorised Service Berkeley Vale (AMK Auto Repairs) 7/ 3 Bon-Mace Close BERKELEY VALE NSW 2261 Ph: 0448 433 440 E: apextyre@yahoo.com.au Repco Authorised Service Gladstone (DB Customs & Whitewalling) 54 Glastone Benaraby Road GLADSTONE QLD 4680 Ph: 0435 867 250 E: lwagner@dbcwhitewalling.com Repco Authorised Service Glenorchy (Tassie Automotive) 46 Grove Road GLENORCHY TAS 7010 Ph: 0450 925 434 E: rabin1512@hotmail.com Repco Authorised Service Rural View (David Galea Mechanical) 1/ 12 Carl Court RURAL VIEW QLD 4740 Ph: 07 4818 1616 E: dgmechanical@hotmail.com Ringwood Prestige 49 New Street RINGWOOD VIC 3134 Ph: 03 9879 7560 E: admin@ringwoodprestige.com.au Riversdale Service Centre 1051 Riversdale Road SURREY HILLS VIC 3127 Ph: 03 9888 8828 E: stanley@riversdaleprestige.com.au RM Autohaus 233 Burwood Road HAWTHORN VIC 3122 Ph: 03 9819 2777 E: phil@rmautohaus.com.au Ron’s Auto Service Centre 1 Cadby Court WARRAGUL VIC 3820 Ph: 03 5623 5703 E: admin@ronsautos.com.au

Sampson Automotive 3/ 15 Landy Street NORTHGATE QLD 4013 Ph: 07 3189 2774 E: sampsonautomotive@outlook.com Seat Belt King Factory 1b Macbeth Street BRAESIDE VIC 3195 Ph: 1300 871 150 E: peter@seatbeltking.com.au Shreeji Car Care 40 Oxford Street OAKLEIGH VIC 3166 Ph: 03 9041 5535 E: scc.oakleigh@gmail.com Slimstock Level 14, Suite 5, 350 Collins St MELBOURNE VIC 3000 Ph: 0401 621 372 E: alex@accelerasia.com Sommer Car Care 38 Finsbury Street NEWMARKET QLD 4051 Ph: 07 3833 9600 E: team@sommercarcare.com.au South West Autohaus 14 Gordon Avenue GEELONG WEST VIC 3218 Ph: 03 5201 9075 E: service@swautohaus.com.au Spanners & Sparks Automotive 3 Golden Crescent WENDOUREE VIC 3355 Ph: 03 5331 7755 E: info@spannersandsparks.com.au Teknorot Australia Pty Ltd 21 Dudley Road ROSE BAY NSW 2029 Ph: 0415 613 364 E: warren@teknorot.com.au TekTile Australia 24 Stennett Road INGLEBURN NSW 2565 Ph: 1300 662 214 E: steved@tektile.com.au The Torque Team 3/ 16 Devlan Street MANSFIELD QLD 4122 Ph: 07 3343 9825 E: admin@thetorqueteam.com TriTech Lubricants and Sales Pty Ltd 151 Colemans Road (Cnr Taylors Road) DANDENONG SOUTH VIC 3175 Ph: 03 9708 2317 E: carriem@tritechlubricants.com True Revolution Automotive Unit 2, 143 Grand Entrance AUSTRALIND WA 6233 Ph: 08 9730 3306 E: jarred@truerevolutionautomotive.com.au Tune Tech 1/ 45 Shore Street West CLEVELAND QLD 4163 Ph: 07 3286 4511 E: tunetech@internode.on.net VCM Performance 1634 Ferntree Gully Road KNOXFIELD VIC 3180 Ph: 03 9763 7599 E: rob@vcmsuite.com.au WERP International Pty Ltd PO Box 6394 ROUSE HILL NSW 2155 Ph: 0499 302 903 E: info@thewerp.com.au Wilson & Gilkes 337 Newbridge Road MOOREBANK NSW 2170 Ph: 02 9914 0900 E: jhunt@wilsongilkes.com.au Wired Mobile Auto Electrics 73 Glasson Drive ORANGE NSW 2800 Ph: 0428 424 316 E: jake@wiredmobileautoelectrics.com Wolf 4x4 19 Flinders Parade NORTH LAKES QLD 4509 Ph: 07 3180 1979 E: ashleyg@wolf4x4.com.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2022

7

AAAA NEWS

HAPPY NEW YEAR AND WELCOME TO 2022 I hope everyone was able to spend quality time with family and friends to rest and recover from the ups and downs that 2021 presented Once again, we have endured a shaky start to the year thanks to Omicron, which has presented a range of challenges for all businesses.

However, there is now some light at the end of the tunnel and here at the AAAA we are determined not to let the pandemic railroad our plans this year.

Our focus is firmly on the future, and we have an ambitious agenda for the coming year.

The largest industry event for the year will be the Australian Auto Aftermarket Expo, co-located with the Collision Repair Expo.

It is hard to believe the Expo is now less than two months away, taking place from 7 – 9 April at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre.

The show is the nation’s only comprehensive exhibition for Australia’s $25b aftermarket industry and will bring together the industry’s best and brightest and showcase over 250 of the country’s leading brands.

The theme is ‘The Workshop of the Future is Here’ and is designed to educate and prepare you as an attendee for this future, so you can not only survive, but thrive in an era of unprecedented technological disruption.

Given the current situation we understand that some may have concerns about the event taking place, but we are very confident about running a successful Expo in April. With visitor registration numbers tracking above that of our 2019 show at the same time, I firmly believe this demonstrates not only the confidence the industry has in attending, but just how excited everyone is to get together, re-connect with industry colleagues and do business in person.

The free Expo seminar sessions will be incredibly beneficial for attendees. We’ve gathered a fantastic group of leading industry experts who

will share insights into the topics that matter to you. You will be able to learn about the most common legal issues affecting workshops, how to use data to improve business performance, using business fundamentals and customer service to boost success, and gain insights into the future of vehicle modification.

In addition to the above topics, three other Expo seminar topics represent the AAAA’s top strategic priorities for this year and beyond and will outline vital information on these key industry challenges.

The first session will focus on the number one issue affecting workshop sustainability and growth – the skills shortage. A panel of industry leaders will tackle the challenges we face, and with optimism, share ideas on how we can attract staff and address skills shortages at the workshop level. We are not underestimating the challenge of this issue, and the very real impacts on our members, but the AAAA is well placed to lead the fight once again on behalf of the industry to make meaningful change.

Another seminar session, hosted by Lesley Yates, will brief attendees on the all-important Motor Vehicle Service and Repair Information Sharing Scheme as it enters the final stages before its implementation on the 1st of July. Building an entire system to support and operationalise the law is certainly a challenging proposition.

However, we are well positioned to have everything in place come July and we are working diligently to that end. This seminar will provide an overview of what information will be made available under the scheme and how technicians will gain access to it.

The other hot topic for our industry continues to be EVs, so I’m excited to lead an expert industry panel discussion on this topic to get down to the facts. EVs in high volumes are coming. But how soon? And what are the challenges we need to be aware of so we can be ready and take advantage of this new automotive era.

Stay tuned to our communication channels as we kick start these popular member events.

Finally, the Auto Innovation Centre (AIC) is now entering its third year. The client list continues to grow as the demand for innovative services to support companies grows. We are very happy the industry has embraced the unique mix of technology and services the AIC offers for product development and encourage you to visit www.autoic.com.au to learn more and see how the AIC may be able to assist your business.

This year is certainly shaping up as one of our biggest ever, and with the support of the AAAA Board, the AAAA team, and the two-way communication with our members about their needs and issues, we have every reason to think we will achieve a great deal.

Onwards and upwards.

Limited tickets are available for each seminar, so to confirm your place, please register for the Expo and select your seminars of interest at www.aftermarketexpo.com.au. Registration for the Expo and seminars is free of charge.

Speaking more generally about the year ahead, I know our team is looking forward to getting back to seeing our members and hosting member networking events and other industry activities.

Personal relationships are so important, and I’m sure you will agree with me, zoom meetings just don’t get close to replicating face to face events.

8

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2022

Stuart Charity Chief Executive Officer

NEWS

AAAEXPO SET TO DELIVER SUPERB SEMINAR PROGRAM Three days of informative seminars will educate and entertain at the Australian Automotive Aftermarket Expo

The Australian Automotive Aftermarket Expo (AAAExpo), co-located with the Collision and Repair Expo (CRE), has been designed to deliver workshop owners the knowledge they need to make the right decisions for the future of their businesses.

In 2022, in the name of further advancing the educational opportunities for showgoers, the Expo’s traditional seminar program will be relocated from its previous location in the seminar rooms upstairs, to the show floor, increasing accessibility and putting it front and centre amid all the action of the show.

Two seminar stages will host presentations and demonstrations on the hour, alongside celebrity appearances and more.

Highly experienced and credentialed speakers will present on a wide variety of topics, with attendance to these seminars free for Expo ticketholders and registration open now at www.autoaftermarketexpo.com.au Rachael Evans of The Workshop Whisperer, ACA Research’s Ben Selwyn, the Australian Automotive Dealer Association’s James Voortman, Capricorn’s

David Fraser, mycar’s Adam Pay, the Auto Innovation Centre’s Luke Truskinger, Industry Legal’s Emma Dalley, Leaderise’s Michael Erwin, AusGarage’s Joseph Wheeler, and the AAAA’s Stuart Charity, Lesley Yates and Tiffany Conway will all present across the two stages.

The seminars will cover a wide array of subjects including steps to workshop success, improving customer service, using research and data to boost performance, attracting great staff amidst the skills shortage, fair and open competition,

AAAEXPO SEMINAR SCHEDULE: Thursday 7th April 2.15pm - 3.00pm

Five steps to workshop success

Rachael Evans - Workshop Whisperer

3:30pm - 4.15pm

The key to improving customer service in the auto repair industry

Rachael Evans - Workshop Whisperer

How high performing workshops use data to boost performance

Ben Selwyn - ACA Research, Tiffany Conway - AAAA

Friday 8th April 11.15am - 12.00pm 12.30pm - 1.30pm

the future of vehicle modifications, common legal issues, electric vehicle trends, digital marketing and more. March’s edition of Aftermarket Magazine will provide an in-depth look at what you can expect to be covered by each of these seminar topics.

The CRE will also host a number of seminars, covering digital marketing, attachment methods, drivers of business success, diversifying to get your customers to buy more, ADAS, training and building your business.

Our skills shortage: Attracting great staff and keeping them

David Fraser - Capricorn, Adam Pay - mycar, Lesley Yates - AAAA, James Voortman - AADA

2.00pm - 2.45pm

Lesley Yates - AAAA

The full CRE speaker program can be found at www.collisionrepair.com.au

Luke Truskinger - AIC, Lesley Yates - AAAA

The AAAA owns and operates the Australian Auto Aftermarket Expo and the Collision Repair Expo, the industry’s major biannual trade show.

Fair and open competition in the automotive industry

4.15pm - 5.00pm The future of vehicle modifications

Saturday 9th April 10.15am - 11.00am

How to deal with the common legal issues that affect auto repair workshops

Emma Dalley - Industry Legal

11.15am - 12.00pm

Why you haven’t had a decent holiday in years

Michael Erwin - Leaderise

12.30pm - 1.30pm

Electric vehicle trends and opportunities

Stuart Charity - AAAA

2.00pm - 2:45pm

How to use digital marketing to grow your business

Joseph Wheeler - AusGarage

Taking place at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, the Expo is the nation’s only comprehensive exhibition for Australia’s $25B aftermarket industry, bringing together the industry’s best and brightest while showcasing hundreds of the country’s leading companies, all under one roof.

For more information, visit www.autoaftermarketexpo.com.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2022

9

NEWS

SHOW YOUR APPRENTICES YOUR APPRECIATION Capricorn Rising Stars nominations open The Capricorn Rising Stars Apprentice of the Year program is an opportunity for Capricorn Members to acknowledge apprentices for their ongoing effort and hard work.

Recognising and David Fraser rewarding apprentices Group CEO, for the value they bring Capricorn Society Ltd to the workshop will keep them engaged and excited for the promising careers ahead of them.

The award recognises apprentices with a passion for automotive, a positive can-do attitude, and a strong commitment to forging a long career as a repairer.

This unique judging criteria means Members can recognise their star apprentices as they continue to develop their technical proficiency.

To create a level field for all apprentices, Capricorn Rising Stars focuses on initiative, the eagerness to learn and a commitment to industry in all types of workshops and disciplines; from panel and fabrication to auto electrical, general mechanical, heavy diesel and more.

I would encourage all Members to nominate their apprentices as a Capricorn Rising Star. Not only does this present a good opportunity to embed a positive team culture; recognising apprentices is an important way to help the industry to attract the best talent and retain future leaders.

More than $20,000 in cash and prizes is up for grabs to be shared amongst the overall winner, the five finalists and the workshops who nominated them. Every apprentice nominated will benefit by receiving a certificate sent to their workshop.

We send a big thanks to long-term program sponsors Castrol, Repco and the Workshop Whisperer, who have demonstrated their commitment to the future of the automotive industry by donating these fantastic prizes.

To nominate your star apprentices or to find more information, including competition terms and conditions, visit cap.coop/stars. Entries close 30 April 2022.

Yours in cooperation, David Fraser Group CEO – Capricorn Society Ltd For more on Capricorn Society membership, visit www.capricorn.coop 10

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2022

CELEBRATING EXCELLENCE The AAAExpo will celebrate the aftermarket’s innovators at two exciting events The Australian Auto Aftermarket Awards, as part of the Australian Automotive Aftermarket Expo (AAAExpo), recognise innovation and outstanding contribution to the development of the Australian Automotive Aftermarket Industry.

These awards acknowledge organisations and individuals, within the industry, who set the benchmark for excellence across a wide variety of marketing, manufacturing, products and service award categories.

Fostering significant contribution to innovation within the industry is part of the AAAA’s commitment to promoting a sustainable future for the automotive parts, accessories, tools and equipment industry in Australia.

Winners of these prestigious awards represent the elite group of organisations and individuals.

Two exciting celebratory events Held on the 7th of April 2022 at Crown Palladium in Melbourne, the presentation of the award winners will take place over two events.

The Australian Auto Aftermarket Innovation Awards will be presented on the morning

of the 7th of April at the Innovation Awards Breakfast sponsored by RYCO Group, with the Australian Auto Aftermarket Excellence Awards and Best Stand Awards presented at the Excellence Awards Banquet – sponsored

by Burson Auto Parts – that evening.

With over 1000 industry representatives attending the combined events, these award presentations will be the pinnacle of the 2022 Australian Auto Aftermarket Expo.

Ticket sales have now been released for these two high profile events and given that it has been three years since they were last held, they are expected to sell out quickly.

Tickets are allocated on a ‘first in’ basis, so those who want to attend are encouraged to book their tickets now to avoid disappointment.

To register for the events or for more information, visit www.aftermarketawards.com.au

EXPO EXHIBITOR TOOLS AND ACCOMMODATION DEALS The 2022 Australian Auto Aftermarket and Collison Repair Expo is now a couple of months away

As the AAAExpo nears, the AAAA has released a range of communication tools exhibitors can use across email, websites, online publications, social media, video and print to let their customers know they will be at the show.

To access these resources, visit the ‘exhibitor zone’ of www.autoaftermarketexpo.com.au or www.collisionrepair.com.au and click on ‘marketing tools.’

Now is also the time to secure accommodation for the 7-9 April 2022 event.

Adding to the need to book your accommodation fast is the Australian Formula 1 Grand Prix, which is currently scheduled to take place across the same weekend.

This is an exciting development, because more visitors from the automotive trade will

be drawn to Melbourne to attend these two great events in one weekend.

Fortunately, the AAAA says it has made it easier for exhibitors and sponsors by negotiating extremely competitive pricing for a number of hotels.

To take advantage of the offers and save time and effort looking into accommodation yourself, go to the ‘registration’ menu of the show websites for further details.

For further accommodation enquiries, please contact michelle@aaaa.com.au

NEWS

THE COVID STAFFING HANGOVER

We start 2022 with a continued and annoyingly repetitive focus on how the pandemic is affecting day to day operations Obviously, there is less noise about shutdowns, but this has been replaced with a recurring and pervasive worry about staff shortages and parts supply challenges.

We are working with all state government departments and with the Federal health officers to project out what the year may look like and, pending any more unexpected variations, our economy is set to return to some level of normality in the coming months.

The supply side challenges will ease as we come out of the holiday period and late February/early March will see transport lines return to better and more reliable delivery timeframes.

Despite these reassuring signs, it is time to accept that we may never be (exactly) the same again.

We lived through this uncertainty and fear and for many people, this has had an ongoing or lasting effect on job choice and long-term career options.

This will not be welcomed news by anybody because we were at crisis staffing levels before the pandemic and to hear that the COVID headache is going to affect and restrict access to qualified staff is not good.

We know we can’t afford to lose competent and

valued staff – no matter what area of business operation, we are already concerned about how we will fill existing and potential vacancies.

If we look to similar overseas markets, we can see that the risk of staff losses is now increasing significantly. In America it now has an official title, ‘The Great Resignation,’ because staff are rethinking what matters to them and in many cases, clearly what matters right now is a rethink of their career choices.

The largest cohort of resignations is in mid-career employees between 30 and 45. The resignations in 2021 peaked in mid-year but continue to be abnormally high and have continued into early 2022.

Even without a career change – there is rethinking about how we work: some staff have enjoyed the flexibility of remote work and are looking to continue, while others have been reminded of how much they enjoy the company of their colleagues and want that experience again.

Some employees, especially in our industry, kept working despite the anxiety and the workload and frankly, they just want a break from the constant COVID anxiety.

The lesson here is that the risk of staff losses

Lesley Yates, AAAA Director of Government Relations and Advocacy info@aaaa.com.au has increased, and we just can’t afford that right now – so now is the time to focus on how we can mitigate that risk.

Research tells us that now is the time to do a health and safety check in – demonstrating concern and interest in employees’ mental health, physical well-being and identifying any workplace hazards has never been more important than it is right now.

We do care about employee welfare, of course we do. But how that is demonstrated on a day-to-day basis could be a key factor in employee retention.

NEW YEAR, NEW DATA

To celebrate the start of 2022, updated data is available within two key AAAA member tools Updated data is available now for aftermarket workshops, retailers, wholesalers, and manufacturers in the localised (LGA level) and national (state level) car parc tools.

To understand why this is important, let’s look at what they might let you do.

1. You can identify an ageing car parc Over the past five years, the Lake Macquarie car parc has grown from around 220,000 vehicles to more than 250,000. This is largely down to there being 20,000 more ‘older’ vehicles than previously.

This is interesting, because they are likely to be out of warranty and on their second (or third)

owner, meaning there’s very little to draw them back to a dealership.

2. You can identify which makes are driving this Toyota, Mazda, and Hyundai each now have about 4,000 more older models than in 2016. On the flipside, there are about 3,000 less older Holdens, and about 2,000 less older Fords, highlighting the extent to which these brands are fading from the market.

3. You can go deeper into those brands The biggest opportunity within these brands is servicing small passenger cars and utes, with the older vehicles including 9,000 Corollas, 5,500 Mazda 3s, 4,300 Camrys, and 3,000 i30s, as well as 6,400 Hilux and 4,600 LandCruisers.

While Holden and Ford are declining at an overall level, we shouldn’t ignore the 9,500 Commodores and 4,700 Falcons within the local catchment.

In an increasingly complex operating environment, choosing the wrong training and equipment can be risky, so these tools have been built to help you understand the needs of the market, and ultimately make better business decisions.

This column was prepared for AAAA Magazine by ACA Research, the AAAA’s 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 Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2022

11

NEWS

DBA LAUNCHES NEW CATALOGUE FEATURE

A new cross-reference functionality has been launched for DBA’s online catalogue Disc Brakes Australia (DBA) says it is once again demonstrating its commitment to improving user experience by adding a new feature to its marketleading online product catalogue.

With workshop mechanics front of mind, the DBA product team has created a comprehensive database containing the part numbers of a myriad of leading vehicle manufacturers and aftermarket suppliers and linked them to a DBA part number.

The information will hugely benefit mechanics who so far have had to rely on phoning the DBA Technical Support team to obtain similar information – not only in the Australian market but also those located overseas or in a different time zone.

Behind the database is the work of months of preparation by DBA’s dedicated product team.

The functionality is live as of now for brake pads and will go live for brake rotors later in February, successively followed by other, ancillary DBA brake products.

BAPCOR ISSUES CEO AND MD SUCCESSION UPDATE Noel Meehan appointed as Acting CEO as Darryl Abotomey’s retirement brought forward

BAPCOR Limited announced on 23 November 2021 that its Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director, Darryl Abotomey, would retire on 28 February 2021 – a date which was mutually agreed by the Board and Darryl.

The Board of BAPCOR Limited notes that it was communicated at that time and reiterated by Darryl in the Company’s ASX announcement, that the Board and Darryl mutually agreed that it was the right time in the Company’s journey for Darryl to retire and for BAPCOR to transition to a new leader to guide the Company through the next phase of its growth.

This decision was taken with a view that a new leadership and management approach would be in the long-term interests of all stakeholders.

The Board notes that this decision formed part of an orderly succession planning process initiated over a year ago, with an executive search firm engaged, and followed extensive discussions between the Board and Darryl.

At all times, the Board states it has remained united that a change in leadership is in the best long-term interests of all stakeholders.

In a statement issued on 6 December 2021, BAPCOR Limited notes that since the joint announcement of Darryl’s retirement, there has been a marked deterioration in the relationship between the Board and the Chief Executive Officer, such that it feels Darryl’s position as Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer had become untenable.

To search for a DBA cross-reference from an OE or competitor product, follow these simple steps: 1. Go to the DBA website – www.dba.com.au – and click on the large, red ‘PART FINDER’ icon in the top right corner.

2. Within the catalogue interface, click on the ‘Cross Reference’ tab.

3. Enter an OE or manufacturer number into the Search Field and press Enter. You will be shown the equivalent part in a DBA part number.

To view a short demonstration of the crossreference functionality, visit www.dba.com.au and click on ‘About Us’ and then ‘DBA News’, or find Disc Brakes Australia on YouTube.

For more from DBA, visit www.dba.com.au 12

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2022

By unanimous decision, the Non-Executive Directors and Chair of the Board took steps to exercise BAPCOR’s rights and elected to bring forward his retirement end date as Chief Executive Officer and Director of BAPCOR immediately, with Darryl to be paid in lieu of his notice period.

The Board notes that the global search process for a permanent CEO has been underway for some time and is well-progressed.

It says the leadership transition presents an opportunity for BAPCOR to install a more contemporary leadership and management approach to drive the Company’s growth while also ensuring it is consistent with changing stakeholders’ expectations. An appropriate governance and oversight framework remains in place.

Whilst it was originally envisaged that BAPCOR Non-Executive Director Mark Powell would step

in as Acting Chief Executive Officer at the end of February, given the early announcement, Mark was not immediately available.

Therefore, the Board appointed Noel Meehan, BAPCOR’s Chief Financial Officer as Acting Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately, while BAPCOR Chair Margie Haseltine stepped into the role of Executive Chair.

Noel joined BAPCOR as Chief Financial Officer on 1 July 2020 and has played an important role in executing the company’s financial and strategic objectives, including BAPCOR’s record FY21 Results.

Prior to BAPCOR, he was the Chief Financial Officer at Toll Group and has had previous roles as Chief Financial Officer at Treasury Wines Estate Limited and Executive Director of Finance at Orica Limited.

He is a Fellow of the Australian Society of Certified Practising Accountants and a Member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors.

“Noel brings significant financial, strategic operational strengths to the role. He has an indepth understanding of the business, our future growth strategy and the needs of our team members, and we are grateful that he can step in and ensure a seamless transition,” BAPCOR Chair, Margie Haseltine, said.

“We are disappointed to be taking this step earlier than anticipated and thank Mr Abotomey again for his contribution to the growth of BAPCOR since its IPO.” “My focus is on maintaining our strong financial position, driving our performance, executing on our existing strategic objectives and supporting the team to ensure we deliver the customer experience that we are known for,” Noel said.

BAPCOR reaffirms the outlook commentary provided at the 2021 AGM and states it remains united and committed to serving the best interests of BAPCOR and all its shareholders and stakeholders.

For more from BAPCOR, visit www.bapcor.com.au

NEWS

AUTOMECHANIKA DUBAI 2021 COMES TO SUCCESSFUL END The show attracted 20,574 visitors from 129 countries A new awards programme, innovative product launches, and bustling exhibition halls shared the spotlight at the Middle East and Africa’s largest automotive aftermarket trade fair, Automechanika Dubai 2021.

The 18th edition of the annual three-day event concluded on the 16th of December 2021 at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC), having welcomed through the gates 20,574 visitors from 129 countries.

Trade buyers, dealers, workshop owners, and industry professionals were treated to a wide range of products, solutions and services presented by 562 exhibitors from 47 countries, as the buzz on the show floor reflected fresh optimism that Dubai’s post-pandemic regional trade hub status is on an upward trend.

“We’re very pleased with the industry response to Automechanika Dubai 2021, after what has been a hugely challenging period,” Automechanika Dubai Show Director, Mahmut Gazi Bilikozen, said at the close of the show.

“Exhibitor stands have been busy throughout, and the international participation of both exhibitors and visitors has been very impressive, which is crucial for our stakeholders to expand their

business links and distribution networks as we enter a post-pandemic recovery.

“We’ve seen a 40 percent increase in senior management and an 18 percent increase in procurement and purchasing personnel visiting the show compared to the last edition in 2019 – another signal of increased business activity and interest in finding new partners.”

Spread across eight DWTC halls, Automechanika Dubai featured six sectors: parts and components; electronics and systems; tyres and batteries; car wash, care and reconditioning; repair and maintenance; and accessories and customisation.

The showpiece event returned with its regular highlights, the Innovation Zone, the Automechanika Academy, and debuted with the inaugural Automechanika Dubai Awards – which organisers say is the only programme in the Middle East that celebrates success, prestige and excellence by recognising high performing organisations and individuals in the auto aftermarket.

A shortlist of 49 from more than 160 nominations contested 19 categories, with hundreds of professionals gathered at a breakfast ceremony on the second day of Automechanika Dubai.

Meanwhile, exhibitors and visitors alike were happy to be back in a physical face-to-face exhibition environment again.

Automechanika Dubai also featured 12 country pavilions, while other debut highlights included the Modern Workshop; a knowledge sharing platform of the Repair and Maintenance section; and the Tools and Skills Competition.

The 19th edition of Automechanika Dubai will take place from the 22nd to the 24th of November in 2022 at the Dubai World Trade Centre.

For more information, visit www.automechanikadubai.com

CAPRICORN MEMBERS GAIN OUTSTANDING REWARDS AFTER FIRST YEAR Capricorn celebrated the first anniversary of its revamped Capricorn Rewards program in late 2021 Introduced in late 2020, the program from Australasia’s largest automotive cooperative provides Capricorn’s 24,000 automotive service and repair business Members across Australia and New Zealand with outstanding value for their reward points earned from parts, tools, equipment or office essentials purchases.

The all-new Capricorn Rewards program has proven to be a hit following its first full year of operation. Over its first year, more than 70 percent of all Capricorn Members logged into the Capricorn Rewards website, with more than 140,000 logins

generated during this period. This resulted in Capricorn Members redeeming products to the value of $37.5 million during its introductory year.

Offering more choices for Members to redeem their hard-earned Capricorn Rewards points, with the convenience and speed of online shopping, easy ordering and prompt delivery, Capricorn says it is clear that Capricorn Rewards has become a highly appreciated addition for Capricorn Members.

The vast array of retail products included in the Capricorn Rewards program include electronics, homewares, outdoor living, sports and fitness equipment, along with experiences and gifts.

Capricorn Members are still able to use their rewards points for gift vouchers or to pay their Capricorn Trade Account at the end of the month.

“The purpose behind establishing this new program was to further engage and reward our Members, along with our Preferred Suppliers, by providing more meaningful returns in terms of product choices, ease of use and providing real value for their hard-earned Capricorn Rewards

points,” Capricorn Group Chief Executive Officer, David Fraser, said.

“We have been delighted with our Members’ response to the new Capricorn Rewards platform.”

Capricorn says Capricorn Reward points are a key benefit for all of its Members to gain more value for their everyday business purchases, earning 1.5 points for every dollar spent on eligible purchases.

It says this makes it one of the most generous rewards programs in Australasia, with Capricorn Members able to redeem rewards points at a rate of 100 points per $1.

Capricorn says its constantly growing Capricorn Rewards program is one of many ways it can pay to be a Capricorn Member.

For more information about joining Capricorn, visit www.capricorn.coop/join Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2022

15

NEWS

NEW DISTRIBUTION CENTER FOR GPC ASIA PACIFIC Construction of the facility commenced in January 2022 with completion due for Q1 2023 GPC Asia Pacific has announced a partnership with leading Asia-Pacific logistics specialist, LOGOS, to build an advanced 39,000sqm distribution center in the new Broadmeadows Logistics Estate in Melbourne.

GPC Asia Pacific is an automotive parts business which includes Repco, NAPA Auto Parts, AMX, McLeod’s, Rare Spares, and Sparesbox, with a store network of over 550 stores servicing retail and automotive trade customers across Australia and New Zealand.

GPC partnered with business transformation consultancy TMX on its regional Australia and New Zealand supply chain network strategy and operational design, with TMX now assisting GPC in procuring its new sites and project managing the developments.

The brand-new facility in Broadmeadows will feature best-in-class logistics operations and state of the art automation technology, supporting GPC Asia Pacific’s position as a leader in the market, as well as ambitious future growth plans.

“We’re delighted to have secured a new facility at LOGOS’ Broadmeadows Logistics Estate,” GPC Asia Pacific Executive General Manager Logistics, Jon Longbottom, said.

“As a business, we’ve experienced significant growth over the past three years, and we look forward to integrating advanced technologies within a new state-of-the-art facility in Melbourne to improve our customers’ experience.

“By partnering with LOGOS and TMX, we have been able to race ahead with our ambitious growth plans with confidence.

“Our new Broadmeadows Distribution Centre will feature the cutting-edge technology and operations, that will allow us to better support our stores, resulting in better support and service to our entire customer base.

“We are excited at the opportunities this brings for our Business, and the investment signals just how committed we are to the future success of the Automotive Aftermarket.”

Broadmeadows Logistics Estate is a 25-hectare premium site, which on completion, will comprise circa 127,000sqm of sustainable, high quality warehousing space across five facilities.

“We look forward to working with GPC Asia Pacific to deliver this important new facility and support their growth across Victoria, and all of Australia,” LOGOS Head of Australia and New Zealand, Darren Searle, said.

The new GPC distribution center is the third commitment at the Estate and will comprise circa 39,000sqm of high quality and efficient space, and integrated state-of-the-art technology.

“We are proud to be supporting GPC in its Australian supply chain network transformation.

This new facility will offer an automated ‘goodsto-person’ shuttle and ‘very narrow aisle’ storage system, which will boost cubic capacity across GPC’s wide product range and support their future growth strategy,” TMX Director of Property, Sam Dellios, said.

For more information, visit www.repco.com.au or www.gpcasiapac.com

ARNOTT ACQUIRES JRI SHOCKS

The combination of Arnott and JRi Shocks will bring air suspension products to a wider range of customers Arnott – which says it is a global leader in the development and production of air suspension products for passenger vehicles – recently announced that it has acquired JRi Shocks.

Arnott to offer the best aftermarket replacement air suspension, the leading air suspension management system, as well as some of the best performance shocks in the world.”

The acquisition enables Arnott to expand its industry-leading air suspension product portfolio within the SEMA performance market to reach additional customers including street cars, Jeep vehicles, trucks, motorcycles and UTVs.

Arnott says JRi Shocks is well known for its shock absorber technology, which has a history of championship performance in various forms of motorsports.

JRi Shocks will continue to serve its existing markets and customers but will now be better positioned to grow those markets even further while also expanding into new ones.

Customers should see no change in the day-to-day operations of the business.

“Arnott has exceptional engineering capabilities and has a reputation for producing highperformance products,” Arnott Chief Executive Officer, Joe Santangelo, said.

Founded in 2007 by Jeff Ryan, the company was co-owned by Jeff, Det Cullum and NASCAR Hall of Fame crew chief and team owner Ray Evernham at the time of the acquisition.

Jeff will stay on to continue managing all engineering activities for the company, while Det and Ray will remain involved with the company in advisory roles.

point where our growth potential was being held back by the resources we had at hand. We needed a partner to take the company to the next level,” Ray said.

“The last few years we have focused on expanding our world class racing products, allowing more enthusiasts to experience JRi Shocks,” Jeff said.

“Arnott’s enthusiasm for what JRi stands for and its track record of leading companies to extraordinary growth made Arnott the perfect fit to become that partner. I look forward to continuing to support the company’s growth.”

“AccuAir, added to the Arnott portfolio last year, provides the leading air suspension management system on the market today.

“It was a natural progression of our expertise and now we will be able to take it even further under the Arnott umbrella.”

“Bringing JRi Shocks into the fold enables

“After three years of owning JRi, we arrived at a

16

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2022

For more from Arnott, go to www.arnottindustries.com

NEWS

REDARC POWERS SOLAR-POWERED CHARITY LAUNDRY

The world first solar-powered laundry van will support people experiencing homelessness Australian not-for-profit Orange Sky, supported by Australian electronics manufacturer, REDARC and global visual communications platform, Canva, have launched a solar-powered laundry van to support people experiencing homelessness in Australian remote communities.

Orange Sky provides access to free laundry services, warm showers and genuine, nonjudgmental conversation and connection to community members doing it tough, across Australia and New Zealand via bright orange mobile vans.

The organisation strives to think outside the box to create smarter and more efficient ways to drive greater impact, with its most recent innovation, the RV3.0 vehicle, doing just that.

The Orange Sky innovation team undertook the preliminary ideation, developing the schematic of the vehicle using Canva, with the global visual communications platform integral to rapidly iterating concepts during early stages of design.

The RV3.0 vehicle is powered by four 180-watt REDARC solar panels, 600-amp hours in lithium batteries and a battery management and charging system to effectively capture, store and use the renewable energy harnessed, giving the vehicle the ability to produce more power than it uses, reducing electrical consumption by up to 80 percent per shift.

REDRAC has signed on to support Orange Sky as a National Power Partner for the next three years.

REDARC Electronics Managing Director, Anthony Kittel, says REDRAC believes in the Orange Sky mission to ‘positively connect communities’ – a mission that strongly resonates with REDARC’s values.

“We are delighted to partner with Orange Sky to support their remote community expansion plans.

REDARC’s mobile power tech provides a more reliable and sustainable mechanism for Orange Sky to deliver their critical mission,” Anthony said.

As part of its mission to support the nation’s most vulnerable communities, Orange Sky, in partnership with REDARC and Canva, will be introducing a total of eight RV3.0 laundry vehicles to their fleet, and fitting out three of their current laundry vehicles with the REDARC gear, with all 11 RV3.0 vehicles set to service remote communities.

For more information visit www.redarc.com.au/orangesky

OPUS IVS APPOINTS COOLDRIVE AS MASTER DISTRIBUTOR The family-owned company has been appointed as the Master Distributor in Australia and New Zealand Opus IVS explains that it helps independent automotive workshops repair the most complex vehicles fast with diagnostics, programming and live repair guidance from OE brand-specific master technicians.

As vehicles become technologically advanced, the global company of diagnostic specialists enables independent automotive workshops to get vehicles back on the road safely.

Opus IVS says it is committed to helping workshops complete repairs with intelligent vehicle support today, for a safer world tomorrow.

The diagnostic solutions leader operates globally via its head offices in the United Kingdom, United States and Australia, as well as its worldwide network of distributors.

Opus IVS has expanded its distribution network by announcing the appointment of CoolDrive as its Australian and New Zealand Master Distributor for its range of automotive mechanical diagnostic solutions.

CoolDrive Auto Parts is a 100 percent Australian owned family business. Established in 1977 by W.J. Blanchard, the business remains owned and operated by the Blanchard family.

CoolDrive presently operates from 33 branches around Australia and New Zealand, with an office and warehouse in Shanghai, China.

It employs over 500 people, making CoolDrive Auto Parts Australia’s largest family-owned importer and wholesaler of automotive aftermarket parts. Its worldwide sourcing network and reputation enables it to cover a diverse market range for customers.

CoolDrive customers enjoy the benefits of the unbeatable buying power, which is now further enhanced with access to the range of diagnostic

18

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2022

solutions from Opus IVS, including DrivePro, DrivePro Elite Diagnostic Kit and IVS 360 support service, which supplies thousands of workshops globally with unlimited access to live diagnostic support from 100-plus OE Certified Master Technicians.

Opus IVS is a tested and proven diagnostic scanning, calibration, programming and support resource for workshops globally. Its industryleading diagnostic solutions help workshops reduce repair times and improve customer satisfaction, says Opus IVS. For more information about the Opus IVS range of workshop diagnostic solutions please visit www.opusivs-au.com or www.cooldrive.com.au

NEWS

GUD TO ACQUIRE APG

GUD Holdings has entered into an agreement to acquire the AutoPacific Group Under the agreement, GUD Holdings will acquire the AutoPacific Group (APG) for a total consideration of approximately $744.6 million from funds managed or advised

by Pacific Equity Partners (PEP) and its other shareholders (which are associated with APG’s management).

GUD’s acquisition of APG will see the Group make a meaningful step towards its vision of becoming an integrated leader in 4WD Accessories and Trailering in Australia and New Zealand (ANZ) with future export potential. The transaction is expected to complete in January 2022 and is subject to limited conditions.

“4WD accessories and trailering is a cornerstone of GUD’s automotive vision. This acquisition represents the culmination of management and the Board’s work in creating GUD’s Portfolio Vision,” GUD Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Graeme Whickman, said.

“We are excited by the opportunity for GUD to expand its existing 4WD and Commercial Vehicle businesses with complementary products, customers, and capabilities.

“APG is an industry leading designer, manufacturer and distributor of high-quality, engineered and functional automotive and lifestyle accessories that are suitable for all combustion and electric vehicle applications”.

The synergistic acquisition represents an opportunity for GUD to expand its existing 4WD and Commercial Vehicle businesses with complementary products, customers and capabilities and further increases the mix of powertrain-agnostic products in GUD’s automotive portfolio.

“APG represents a portfolio of market leading brands and has longstanding customer relationships across diverse channels,” APG Chief Executive Officer, Jason Kieseker, said.

“With innovation at the heart of what we do, we see GUD as a natural fit for APG and we look forward to leveraging the synergistic opportunities that joining with GUD presents.”

GUD Chairman, Graeme Billings, commented that “the combination of GUD’s existing businesses and APG, firmly establishes GUD as a leader in 4WD Accessories and Trailering in Australia and New Zealand. We see ourselves as the natural owner of the APG business and welcome Jason Kieseker and his team to GUD.” For more from GUD Holdings, visit www.gud.com.au

EIFFEL LUBRICANTS ANNOUNCES AUSTRALIAN DISTRIBUTOR Lectroni Pty Ltd has been announced as the Australian Distributor for the Eiffel Lubricants range Based in the UAE in the MENA region, Eiffel is a leading lubricant (Automotive, Commercial Vehicle, Marine, Greases, Industrial and Specialty Lubricants) and grease manufacturer with more than 1,000 products.

It says it produces the “highest quality lubricants at the most competitive market prices.” It exports to more than 40 countries across North America, South America, Australia, Europe, Middle East, Asia, and African regions.

Lectroni Pty Ltd has been announced as the Australian distributor of the Eiffel Lubricants range.

“It’s a huge privilege to be associated with such a reputed international brand that has a very comprehensive range of lubricants blended from the finest grade base stock procured from world class Exxon Mobil and European refineries and technologically advanced superior additives industry giants Lubrizol and Afton meeting specifications of major OEMs and highest standards of API, MIL, European and Japanese manufacturers,” Lectroni Pty Ltd Founder and Director, Sayeed Aslam, said.

Since 2004 Burj Eiffel Int. Lubricants Ind. LLC with its brand name “Eiffel” has reportedly established itself as an organisation focused on quality, innovation, and customer centricity with its facilities being ISO 9001- 2008 certified indicating its rigorous emphasis and commitment to quality.

Eiffel has multiple state of the art facilities for blending and filling of lubricants and greases in UAE, India, and Kenya, with an installed capacity of blending and filling more than 40,000 MT of lubricants, 16,000 MT of greases and 6,000 MT of viscosity improvers per annum.

As the industry moves closer to Electric Vehicles, Eiffel says it is at the forefront of this industry change and innovation by continuously investing in research and development of lubricants that will cater to the electric vehicle revolution and contribute towards attaining a sustainable environment solution.

Eiffel offers 62 API Licensed Products in the engine oil category for passenger cars and the commercial vehicle segment. Its products are approved by major OEMs such as Porsche,

Volkswagen, Mercedes Benz, Man, Volvo, Mack and Renault.

Products are available in all packing, small to bulk and Eiffel is committed to supplying orders within a lead time of delivery while assuring the best quality and services.

It also offers private label brand production, providing complete end to end solutions from design to delivery.

For more information, visit www.eiffellubricants.com.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2022

19

NEWS

BOSCH EXPANDS ITS HYDROGEN PORTFOLIO Bosch’s partnership with OMB Saleri will develop H2 tank components for mobile applications Bosch expects one in eight new commercial vehicles to be powered by fuel cells by 2030.

Bosch has expanded its product portfolio for mobile hydrogen applications: as of now, it also includes components for H2 tank systems such as tank valves or pressure regulators.

For this purpose, the supplier of technology and services has entered into an engineering partnership with the Italian specialist OMB Saleri in which the products are jointly further developed.

“In the drive to achieve climate neutrality, hydrogen will be an important building block in the future powertrain mix,” Bosch Powertrain Solutions Division President, Dr Uwe Gackstatter, said.

“Together with OMB Saleri, we are making H2 tank components ready for volume production.”

Targeting the global market for hydrogen refuelling solutions Demand for powertrains that run on hydrogen will experience strong growth in the years ahead, especially in commercial vehicles.

Bosch expects that by 2030, around one in eight newly registered commercial vehicles worldwide will be powered by a fuel cell.

Bosch and OMB Saleri hope that the partnership they have now put in place for components for hydrogen refuelling systems will expand their market positions in the H2 sector.

Their collaboration includes a licensing and engineering agreement for several products relating to hydrogen storage solutions at pressures of 350 bar and 700 bar.

Joint simultaneous engineering teams are now further developing the existing products and optimising them for volume production.

The two companies’ goal is to leverage economies of scale and offer components for hydrogen refuelling solutions at competitive prices.

Bosch and OMB Saleri pool expertise The partnership brings together the two partners’ know-how. The Italian technology company OMB Saleri, based in Brescia in northern Italy, is considered one of the world’s leading specialists in components for hydrogen storage solutions.

As a partner, Bosch will benefit from its engineering expertise, a modern H2 test infrastructure and testing stations, and components that have already proved their worth in initial applications.

In return, Bosch will contribute its experience in the commercialisation of innovative products as well as a global development and manufacturing network for large volumes.

Bosch is working on mobile and stationary fuel cells Bosch believes hydrogen has a bright future as an energy carrier, and is making considerable upfront investments in this area.

From 2021 to 2024, the company plans to invest around 600 million euros in mobile fuel-cell applications and a further 400 million euros in stationary ones for the generation of electricity and heat.

The portfolio for vehicles ranges from individual sensors to core components such as the electric air compressor and the stack to the complete fuelcell module.

For more from Bosch, visit www.bosch.com.au

ARE YOUR CUSTOMERS PREPARED FOR STORM DAMAGE BILLS? Data shows car owners are bearing the brunt of the latest spike in La Nina storms with an increase in weather damaged vehicles expected The latest data from AutoGuru and Openpay shows that drivers should be prepared this stormy season as it remains the most popular time for front windscreen replacement, with requests only set to increase.

In fact, The Bureau of Meteorology has recently confirmed the latest stormy La Nina cycle and cyclone Tiffany have no plans to slow down, so with expected storms across Australia continuing, damage for some car owners will be inevitable.

The latest data from automotive service booking platform AutoGuru and buy now pay later provider Openpay has found that the most popular servicing and repairs request at this time of year is front windscreen replacement, followed by tyre replacement, inspection, and repair, with requests increasing by 133 percent in recent months.

Yet with unpredictable weather looming, insurance premiums rising and costs increasing due to global supply chain issues, Australians will need to be doing their maths to cover the potential costs say experts.

While the average windscreen replacement 20

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2022

currently costs $300-$600 depending on the make and model of your car, excess often sits at $500.

This could see many Australians looking to cover the cost themselves, rather than lowering their excess to save a couple of hundred dollars then shouldering the cost in hiked premiums in the long term.

With this financial strain, car owners are looking to alternative and more modern payment methods, as data from Openpay (Openpay sales data, Q4 2021) shows the average BNPL auto plan is valued at $662 with customers spreading this cost over an average of 4.3 months.

AutoGuru says this signals that customers are choosing methods that afford them greater flexibility for repairs and extras in this price range rather than traditional insurance models during an already tricky time for cash-flow management.

“We know that storm season is upon us and while we’re used to seeing increased windscreen repairs around this time of year, the extra uncertainty La Nina adds to the equation could

see an uptick in windscreen damage – as well as more cosmetic damage that’ll need fixing in the long term,” said Kane Tierney, a Fleet Manager and Qualified Mechanic at AutoGuru.

For more from AutoGuru, visit www.autoguru.com.au

NEWS

REPORT REVEALS EXPORT MARKET CONFIDENCE The DHL Export Barometer has revealed that Australian businesses are confident exports will recover in 2022 The results of the annual DHL Export Barometer signal a strong recovery in Australian exports.

This year, 69 percent of Australian businesses surveyed believe that their export revenue is likely to increase over the coming 12 months, following a 19-year low of 47 percent in 2020.

Businesses highlight a range of reasons to expect growth, including increases in customer demand, sales and marketing, and the launch of new products or services. This optimism extends to plans to hire new staff (48 percent) and increase wages (57 percent).

COVID-19 impacts export revenue, but recovery expected in 2022 This year saw more businesses report growth in export orders, while a third (33 percent) recorded an increase in terms of revenue.

For businesses that experienced declining revenue in 2021, 59 percent expect it to return to pre-pandemic levels by end of 2022.

of businesses, followed by supply chain issues such as a shortage of products or raw materials (43 percent), and international travel restrictions (43 percent).

“International travel restrictions that created a shortage in airline cargo capacity in 2020 have created flow on effects to the cost of freight and the ability of exporters to visit business contacts and manufacturing facilities overseas,” DHL Express Australia Chief Executive Officer and Senior Vice President, Gary Edstein, said.

“The pandemic has proved how vital international connections are for sustaining global trade.

Businesses with efficient growth strategies, considered target markets and the support of robust logistics networks such as DHL Express will continue to recover into 2022.”

Businesses concentrate on export markets, with North America now the main target

New export challenges, with increased cost of freight most highlighted

The most common export destinations included New Zealand (targeted by 58 percent of businesses), North America (52 percent), Europe (39 percent), and the UK (38 percent).

Increased freight costs impacted 65 percent

North America also this year took top position as

the main export market, surpassing New Zealand which ranked first in past years.

More exporters use e-commerce to generate orders In 2021, a record 82 percent of export businesses used e-commerce to generate sales. Looking to 2022, they will build on this by investing in online marketing (40 percent), followed by improvements to website design (34 percent), fulfilment and delivery (29 percent), and customer service (26 percent).

For more information, or to view the full report, visit www.dhl.com

AUTOMECHANIKA SHANGHAI ANNOUNCES NEW SHOW DATES The show has been rescheduled to 1-4 December 2022 Players throughout the global automotive ecosystem can look forward to the 17th edition of Automechanika Shanghai returning across the 1st to the 4th of December 2022 at the National Exhibition and Convention Center (Shanghai).

The show was initially put on hold in a swift response to the country’s efforts on containing the spread of emerging COVID-19 cases. Nonetheless, the fair offered several value-added services to support players across the value chain during the interim period.

In the weeks leading up to the decision, a number of factors were considered during discussions between organisers Messe Frankfurt (HK) and relevant stakeholders.

Messe Frankfurt says Automechanika Shanghai is one of the most influential global trade fairs in the automotive industry, offering an arena for marketing, trade, networking and education.

Each year, the show effectively communicates developments in the macro operating environment and filters them into activities across the show floor and fringe programme.

As such, its comprehensive coverage can bridge players across the domestic and international supply chain. From this perspective, the fair will continue supporting business development by exploring effective ways to connect the automotive industry in the year leading up to the new show.

“These included further consultations with the authorities, in addition to assessing an appropriate timeslot in the global Automechanika brand calendar,” Messe Frankfurt (HK) Deputy General Manager, Fiona Chiew, said.

By the same token, Automechanika Shanghai had a duty to bring industry players together during the original show dates, and a strong response on AMS Live during those dates further highlighted the rising need for a resilient digital toolkit while global markets recover.

“In this respect, holding the show from 1 to 4 December 2022 was the most viable outcome for all. We appreciate the support, patience and understanding of everyone in the automotive ecosystem during this interval.”

Buyers could begin sourcing from over 2,900 potential suppliers on 10 November. This further opened up on 24 to 27 November 2021, where players fully leveraged AI matchmaking, lead management tools and real-time analytics.

Over 50 video recordings and livestreamed events on AMS Live also proved immensely popular. For example, 2,049 viewers tuned into How AIoT is Transforming the Active Safety of Commercial Vehicles. Elsewhere, a Dialogue with Automotive Entrepreneurs (Shanghai Stop) collected an audience of 2,440. Several exhibitors also leveraged the show’s global reach by holding their product demonstrations and launches on the platform.

On top of this, a dedicated team from the organisers produced 1,900 appointments and recommendations on Match Up since its launch in August.

For further enquiries about participating in Automechanika Shanghai, please visit: www.automechanika-shanghai.com or contact Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd on +852 2802 7728 or auto@hongkong.messefrankfurt.com Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2022

21

NEWS

BURSON EZYPARTS UNVEILED

A faster, simpler and cleaner way to find what you need from Burson Auto Parts Burson Auto Parts recently unveiled its all new, web enabled, simplified and speedier Burson EZYParts catalogue and ordering system for trade account customers.

Designed to assist automotive repairers find and order the parts they need and ensure that they are operating at the maximum possible efficiency, the Australian trade supplier of parts, tools and equipment says Burson EZYParts reduces the time spent finding, ordering and quoting the correct parts required for the vast majority of general automotive vehicle servicing and repair work.

Burson EZYParts provides a broad view on parts availability, detailed technical information and accurate repair time data to enable repairers to see the stock available at multiple Burson Auto Parts stores within their proximity.

The speed and efficiency of the Burson EZYParts system is enhanced with intuitive vehicle search functions that include Registration, VIN and Free Text capabilities to help you find the exact replacement or service parts required quicker than ever before.

Burson EZYParts also includes more detailed product information and product images covering the vast range of quality service and replacement parts in the Burson Auto Parts range. The system also easily allows for side-by-side parts comparisons to be made before making parts purchasing decisions.

Burson Auto Parts trade customers can also customise their Burson EZYParts interface to perfectly suit their own customised profit, quotation and other cost factor requirements. This ensures greater accuracy of customer quoting, reducing the possibility of invoicing errors and inconsistencies.

Updated vehicle Log Book Service guidelines ensure that customers receive the correct service as required for their specific vehicle requirements.

This also enables Burson Auto Parts trade customers to provide more accurate quotations for specific jobs including labour time to their customers.

“We have invested significantly in making our valued trade customers lives easier. There is no

doubt that once a workshop operator is running this totally updated parts sourcing, ordering and business assistance software package that they will be saving significant time and money,” Burson Trade Executive General Manager, Steve Drummy, said.

“It is easy to use, faster and cleaner as it is a total software package that has been custom designed to suit the specific requirements of Australian automotive repair and service providers.

“We know that once our trade customers use Burson EZYParts anywhere, anytime and on any device, it will become an integral part of their business management.”

For more information, call 1300 BURSON (287 766).

INTRODUCING PARTLY An open data standard for selling online

The increasing average age of vehicles, the booming number of do-it-yourself customers, and the convenience of purchasing parts online have driven strong growth in the e-commerce automotive aftermarket in the post-Covid era.

Partly says the global e-commerce automotive aftermarket is anticipated to grow a staggering 15 percent per year and notes that consumer purchasing preferences are also projected to rapidly migrate from the traditional brick-andmortar model to buying online.

It says this is creating untapped opportunities for auto parts manufacturers, distributors and retailers to expand to e-commerce; allowing sellers to not only own the relationship with their buyers but also create a desirable purchase experience.

However, managing vehicle compatibility (or fitment data) and integrating this data with e-commerce platforms can be extremely difficult due to the data complexity and required updates.

Displaying this data in an intuitive system for the average consumer is another story entirely.

In addition, cross-referencing aftermarket parts with interchangeable OEM equivalent parts can also be a strenuous process, despite being critical. These challenges, combined with the 22

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2022

limited technical know-how, are preventing many businesses throughout the auto parts supply chain from expanding online, in spite of the attractive opportunity presented.

Partly explains that it is an auto data technology company that solves many of these problems through a new open global data standard, regionalised for each country, including Australia.

the Partly API to query fitment data and part information for their own custom development.

With these solutions, part sellers can have a centralised tool to manage catalogues and publish products to their own website and marketplaces like eBay.

The company provides a tool called PartsPal which allow users to manage all parts data and catalogues in one place.

Users can get fitment data automatically from the Partly databases, or add their own fitment data. The software also allows cross-referencing aftermarket parts with equivalent OEMs, allowing sellers access to high-quality data.

Through any subscription with Partly, users will have access to Partly’s databases which have over 20 million aftermarket parts and 25 million OEM parts, covering multiple brands.

This solution aims to enable sellers to build their online channels at a fraction of the cost of custombuilt solutions. It caters to businesses of all sizes, from smaller distributors to manufacturers.

Web developers and agencies can also use

For more information, visit www.partly.com

NEWS

INTRODUCING BETTER ACCESS TO NEVDIS DATA Blue Flag is an authorised provider of Plate-to-VIN NEVDIS data

Customers can use an API to access and integrate data from the National Exchange of Vehicle and Driver Information System (NEVDIS) within their own computer systems and websites.

Alongside the NEVDIS data, Blue Flag says it collects and cross-references many data sources, therefore reducing its clients’ risk when making decisions for purchasing, quoting and valuation.

The Blue Flag system allows its clients to search for cars by VIN, Registration Plate or chassis number.

Blue Flag has established various methods for accessing NEVDIS data, allowing clients to integrate customised solutions using Blue Flag’s API (application programming interface).

It makes life easier by allowing VIN or Registration Plate information to be populated directly into a ‘pre-fill’ form.

Simply enter a vehicle’s registration number to reveal a vehicle’s VIN or chassis number; engine number; basic attributes (for example, model, colour, body type and more); year of manufacture; registration status and expiry date; written-off status (including reason such as accident, hail or flood damage); and stolen status.

Access to NEVDIS data provides security and peace-of-mind. Check the registration status and expiry of your fleet regularly or check vehicles prior to driving. Buying registered cars into stock?

Your job will be a whole lot easier with timely access to stolen and write-off statuses, including the detailed reason for a write-off such as minor hail damage or full-scale flood damage. Keep in

mind, a vehicle written-off years ago could have been rebirthed, but fortunately, NEVDIS has you covered, says Blue Flag.

The Blue Flag API caters to all types of customers, whether it be searching five cars a week or tens of thousands per month.

The system is simple to integrate with your current website or portal and you can visit www.blueflag.com.au to sign up and test the API for free.

For more information, visit www.blueflag.com.au/nevdis or email edward.bunting@blueflag.com.au or call 03 9427 1230.

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2022

23

NEWS

VALE: W.J BLANCHARD

CoolDrive Auto Parts Founder John Blanchard Senior passed away in December at the age of 87, following a long battle with illness John spent his lifetime working within the Australasian automotive industry, with his achievements recognised in 2019 when he was inducted into the Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association’s Hall of Fame.

His illustrious career began at his parents’ garage ABC Motors in Clifton Hill (Melbourne), helping his father as a five-year-old.

That led to the ability to service cars by age 11 and then, after leaving school, a long career with the likes of VW, Kenworth, Land Rover, New Holland and Girling, before a stint overseas and then striking out on his own.

AUSTRALIA’S NEXT TOP MODEL: THE TOYOTA HILUX With the unpredictable year of 2021 finally closed, ACA Research takes a step back and looks at how new vehicle sales have performed

In total, there were 1,049,831 vehicles sold throughout 2021, representing a 14.5 percent increase to 2020. While this is just 13,000 less than 2019, it still lags the 2018 result by more than 100,000 sales, reflecting the ongoing impact of microprocessor shortages on global supply chains, and restricted access to dealerships through the pandemic.

Despite this, there are some positive elements to take away, with a number of manufacturers recording strong results. It is no surprise to see Toyota again claim the top spot, with its 223,642 sales making up 21.3 percent of the market share. Mazda came in second with 101,119 sales at 9.6 percent market share, while Hyundai (72,872 sales) finished just 1,492 sales ahead of Ford (71,380 sales) in fourth place.

Looking at the top 10 models sold, we can see a noticeable shift in consumer behavior. Four Utes made the top 10 in 2021, and by doing so, overtook the number of passenger vehicles in the top 10 for the first time in Australian Automotive history.

In the late ‘70s, John established Melbourne Auto Air with his wife Shirley, being one of the first people to import automotive air conditioning systems into Australia, and since then that business has grown exponentially.

John remained an active contributor to the CoolDrive business where he was fondly known as “Senior” regularly attending the Box Hill Head Office or conducting a surprise visit to a CoolDrive branch.

John was acknowledged for his meticulous attention to detail, high level of organisation and entrepreneurial spirit, and remained extremely proud that CoolDrive continues to be an Australian family-owned business.

A lifelong motor racing enthusiast, John was also heavily involved with the Victorian Historic Racing Register for many years, as well as supporting the racing exploits of son John and grandchildren.

John is survived by his wife Shirley, his children John and Jennie and his six grandchildren Tim, Adelyn, Jack, Harry, Simon and Sam. The team at the AAAA and Aftermarket Magazine extends its deepest sympathies to the Blanchard family at this sad time.

24

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2022

Most notably, as highlighted below, the Toyota Hilux continued its domination of the market, capturing the top position for a sixth year in a row.

Just behind, ranking second for the fifth year in a row, was the Ford Ranger, with Toyota’s RAV4 Corolla claiming the third and fourth positions respectively. With that said, if the Ranger had managed just 2,523 more sales, it would have overtaken the Hilux and made it the first time in 26 years that a Ford claimed the top spot.

and wind down operations in Australia, the number of Commodores on Australian roads will continue to decline, but when will it be overtaken as the most popular vehicle on Australian roads?

As seen below, we predict that the Toyota Hilux will become the most common vehicle in Australia midway through 2022, with the Toyota Corolla also overtaking the Commodore over the next 12 months. Looking even further ahead, by the year 2026, we expect to see the Commodore drop to sixth most registered vehicle in Australia, with the Toyota Landcruiser, Mazda 3 and Ford Ranger all overtaking it, and giving us a top five of Toyota Hilux, Toyota Corolla, Toyota Landcruiser, Mazda 3 and the Ford Ranger.

Figure Two. Source: ABS

So, what decisions can be made off the back of this?

Based on these insights, mechanics may have a better understanding of the cars that are likely to turn up in their workshops, informing training needs, and investment in tools and equipment.

Flowing on from this, manufacturers, wholesalers, and retailers will have a better idea of the parts that will be needed to service these vehicles, and how production and supply might need to ramp up or down over time.

Figure One. Source: VFACTS

A clear absentee from the top 10 list is the Holden Commodore; a vehicle which is still the most common in Australia’s car parc – with 808,591 vehicles in 2021 (based on ABS data). It sits more than 50,000 ahead of the closest competitor in the Toyota Hilux, with 754,662 vehicles registered.

Given GM’s decision to retire the Holden brand

Ultimately, the effective use of data is key, particularly now as the economy resets off the back of an incredibly turbulent couple of years.

This column was prepared for AAA Magazine by ACA Research, the AAAA’s 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

NEWS

VALE: PETER ARMSTRONG

The AAAA staff and members were saddened to hear of the passing of industry stalwart Peter Armstrong in December Peter was extremely popular amongst his peers in the Automotive Aftermarket fraternity and was highly respected by all who knew him.

Peter joined Independent Brake Supplies (IBS), in 1993 as the National Sales Manager overseeing the five state branches.

Peter commenced his career in 1965 with Patons Brake Replacements (PBR) as a Sales and Marketing Cadet and progressed to become a Technical Representative in the power brake equipment department.

It was then renamed IBS Auto Solutions upon acquisition by Australian Truck & Auto Parts in 2008 which itself was renamed to Australian Automotive Distribution (AAD), at which time Peter was appointed General Manager of IBS.

In 1971 he moved to Canada to a position of Sales Representative with Repco Auto Parts, Canada and was transferred to Repco Parts USA in 1974.

During the later parts of Peter’s working life, he then as a result of structural changes became State Manager for AAD in NSW, which incorporated the Sydney sites of the three businesses that were previously known as ATAP, IBS and Partco. Peter remained in this position until his retirement in August 2019.

Peter spent the next five years with the automotive industry in a managerial position with Mandrake Management Consultants, Toronto, Canada.

He returned to Australia in 1981 to take up the position of Victorian Sales Manager with Better Brakes, and in 1985 was promoted to National Sales Manager and transferred to their Head Office in Sydney.

In 1987 Peter was employed by Melbourne Clutch and Brake as NSW State Manager to create a NSW division for that company.

Peter was the past Chairman of the NSW brake specialist division of the Motor Traders Association (MTA) and past National Chairman of the brake division.

Peter was a National Councilor of the AAAA for 17 years and was President of the Association from 2000 to 2002. He was inducted into the AAAA Hall of Fame in 2013.

Peter is survived by wife Jan and sons Craig and Shaun. He was father-in-law to Dianne and Pop to Tianna.

Staff and members of the AAAA extend their condolences and sympathies to Peter’s family.

The team at the AAAA and Aftermarket Magazine extends its deepest condolences and sympathies to Peter’s family.

VALE: DR WALTER W.J UHLENBRUCH AO Dr Walter W.J Uhlenbruch AO passed away in November 2021 At the age of just 25, Dr Walter W.J Uhlenbruch emigrated to Australia where he built the HELLA business from the ground up, to more than 1,200 employees.

Dr Uhlenbruch was included in the Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association Hall of Fame by being awarded the “Outstanding Service to Industry Award” in 1994.

Further highlighting the significance of his contribution to the industry, in 2005 he was appointed as an “Officer of the Order of Australia” (AO), the second highest award in Australia.

“Across his illustrious career, Walter was a former Director, Chief Executive Officer, and Chairman of fourteen private and/or public companies in the automotive parts, construction, and superannuation industries across Australia, SE Asia, and the US,” HELLA Australia Managing Director, Darren Robinson, said.

“Walter was an absolute gentleman, whose caring, compassion and determination were highly regarded by everyone he worked with.

“Walter’s loyalty and love for HELLA, and the Automotive Industry, remained until his passing, but his spirit remains with those of us who were lucky enough to have met him.”

“With Dr Walter Uhlenbruch, we have lost a true HELLA pioneer,” HELLA Gmbh & Co. KGaA Chief Executive Officer, Dr Rolf Breidenbach, said.

“From the laying of the foundation stone of our Australian plant in Mentone in 1961 until his retirement after the turn of the millennium, he shaped HELLA’s presence in the AsiaPacific region for more than four decades like no other.

“HELLA not only has him to thank for the establishment and further development of the HELLA site on the fifth continent, but also for the first contacts in the Korean and Chinese markets, which are so significant today.

“The most important element of the HELLA culture is the realisation that people are at the heart of the company.

“This guiding principle of Dr Walter Uhlenbruch was not only ground-breaking for him in his many years of work for HELLA, but also in his commitment to numerous charitable causes.

“He stood up for socially disadvantaged people and was a recipient of the German Federal Cross of Merit as well as the Australian Order of Merit.

“He distinguished himself through his human

Dr Walter W.J Uhlenbruch AO (left) with Hella Australia Managing Director Darren Robinson

greatness and his entrepreneurial skills and was not only appreciated by employees, but also highly respected by customers and business partners alike.

“With him, we lose a straightforward and determined personality to whom we owe a great deal. We will always honour his memory.”

The Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association and Aftermarket Magazine extends their deepest condolences to all who knew and loved Walter.

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2022

25

COVER STORY

TRIDON LEADING THE WAY IN HIGH PERFORMANCE WIPER BLADES Proudly Australian owned and operated, Tridon has been a leading supplier to the automotive aftermarket for more than 40 years In the 1970s Tridon developed and introduced a range of plastic back wiper refills as one of its core product lines.

With two different plastic profiles, narrow and wide back, Tridon says it had the market covered, establishing itself as a leading supplier of wiper products in Australia.

Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Australian consumers saw wiper refills as the total wiper solution. The metal blade assembly was simply considered part of the car, so if you needed new wipers, you changed your refills and it was job done, says Tridon.

Vehicle design and the humble wiper blade Advancement in vehicle design, along with the influx of many new makes and models, saw a dramatic shift for the humble vehicle wiper.

New vehicles were fitted with advanced wiper designs including flat, curved and hybrid blades.

There were also traditional wipers with long and short lengths, together with new refill styles, new profiles, and the addition of many new wiper connections and adaptors.

Once a universal consumable product, the wiper blade became much more complex. The evolution of the wiper blade had begun, and the days of the simple refill solution were over.

In response to the changing market needs, Tridon undertook comprehensive research and product development. The goal: to provide the aftermarket with a complete range of direct fit, high quality wiper blades and refills that were easy to identify and simple to use.

Today, Tridon says it offers the most complete premium quality wiper range in the Australian market.

Research and development Tridon has invested heavily in local wiper research and development with a dedicated team focusing on quality, innovation and performance, providing technical support specific to the Australian market.

Using proven premium quality natural rubber compounds and selected UV coatings developed specifically for the harsh Australian environment, Tridon wiper blades and refills are manufactured from the highest quality materials for ultimate performance in all conditions.

26

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2022

Tridon wiper range Unrivalled and boasting more than 98 percent vehicle coverage, Tridon says its extensive wiper range is led by the flagship Tridon FlexBlade and Tridon CurveBlade products.

Tridon also offers conventional complete metal wiper blades, metal rail and plastic back refills and rear wiper blade products.

Tridon’s premium FlexBlade range is ideal for car

enthusiasts looking for the very best wiper blades for their vehicle.

Utilising the latest wiper blade technology, Tridon FlexBlade incorporates a low profile aerodynamic clawless design and direct fit connectors, delivering continuous and even pressure distribution for a crisp, clean wipe every time.

For the automotive trade workshop or professional, the FlexConnect range delivers a complete, compact one-stop wiper solution.

COVER STORY

The range includes 12 naked blades and 10 different connectors sold separately. Each connector mounts to the naked blade using Tridon’s revolutionary clip-in system – simply select the correct FlexConnect blade length and match the connector for each vehicle application.

Tridon says its Curveblade wiper range is the ultimate solution for the increasingly popular hybrid market.

Manufactured using the latest Japanese wiper technology, the hybrid blade design features an integrated curved metal rail refill and aerodynamic spoiler design for continuous pressure contact on the windscreen and is designed for the direct replacement of hybrid wipers commonly seen on Japanese and Korean vehicles.

Next in the Tridon wiper blade range are conventional complete metal wiper blades, which Tridon explains are manufactured from the highest quality, powder-coated zinc steel and stainlesssteel rivets for extended life.

Tridon complete blades feature interchangeable OE style metal rail refills and are supplied complete with adaptors to suit various arm style designs.

More recently introduced, the rear blade wiper program was developed to provide broad coverage of rear wipers for late-model vehicles and the expanding SUV market.

Designed as direct OE replacement without the requirement for adaptors, Tridon offers two rear blade types: conventional plastic blade and flat (or beam) blade.

Currently with 39 individual part numbers, Tridon continues to expand this range to meet the needs of the market.

Developed over many years, Tridon wiper refills are available in plastic back, OE style metal rail, and rubber refill designs. They are interchangeable with most conventional complete wiper blades in the Australian market.

Tridon also has a range of high-quality, heavy-duty truck and bus blades and refills available – for more information about these, visit www.tridon.com.au

Selection made easy With so many options to choose from, selecting the correct wiper blade or refill is no easy task.

Developed over many decades, Tridon’s comprehensive applications and detailed product information makes this process easy with listings available on Tridon PartFinder, online and through all major parts catalogues.

A variety of packaging options are available including blister packs or hang style boxes to suit workshops, trade stores and also the retail environment.

A full merchandising solution conveniently displays all Tridon wiper blades and refills, with a modular system allowing for various combinations to meet retail and trade requirements.

Distribution and capabilities Tridon has national branch and warehouse facilities in key locations around Australia and New Zealand which it says ensures products are closer to customers for faster delivery as well as providing local customer service support.

Safe driving starts with clear vision, and Tridon says it is proud to offer a complete range of premium quality wipers for superior performance and excellent visibility at any time of the year.

For more information, visit www.tridon.com.au or contact Tridon on 1300 362 263.

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2022

27

TECHNOFILE

IVS 360 TEAM SUPPORTS CUSTOMER WITH BMW REGENERATION FAILURE FAULT Opus IVS OEM-Trained Master Technicians support customers in the automotive aftermarket They do so via the IVS 360 diagnostic support service delivered from the Opus IVS Head office in Oxford, UK. Using the DrivePro’s market leading diagnostic software and extensive product knowledge, the IVS 360 team identifies the cause and steps needed to fix vehicle faults.

IVS 360 reportedly provides technicians with the confidence to repair the most complex vehicles fast with live repair guidance from OE brandspecific master technicians.

Symptoms:

Opus IVS’ experts remote in real time directly to vehicle communication systems to diagnose, program and calibrate vehicles.

Lack of power; DDE engine management warning light on; DPF filter check control message displayed in cluster and I-drive.

This eliminates the uncertainty, giving workshops the confidence to get the most complex vehicles back on the road safely and fast.

Various fault codes can be stored like the ones listed below:

Globally, the IVS team provides essential diagnostic support to thousands of customers with the aim of improving efficiency and profitability in their workshops.

Diagnostic support cases range across a wide range of vehicle brands and are managed through the OEM-Trained Master Technicians who are experienced brand specialists.

A recent IVS 360 case involved a BMW. The DPF Pressure was too high to achieve successful regeneration. The customer was guided through the following causes and repair steps:

Affected Vehicles: • BMW - All Diesel models (2005 - 2017) - Diesel Particulate Filters fitted but not with the Add Blue system • Mini - All Diesel models (2005 - 2017) - Diesel Particulate Filters fitted but not with the Add Blue system

• 480A - Particulate filter system Engine - DME • 481A - Particulate filter system Engine - DME • 452A - Info particulate filter system Engine DME • 41BA - Exhaust backpressure sensor Engine DME • 41BB - Exhaust backpressure sensor Engine DME • 41CD - Plausibility pressure sensors Engine DME • 245000 - Particulate filter system ash volume in particulate filter above maximum Engine DME • 245C00 - Particulate filter system, flow resistance too high, filter clogged Engine DME

Possible Causes: • Backpressure read by the sensor is too high and causes a fault to be stored. DPF regen can no longer take place.

• Other faults in the DDE relating to glow plug operation, throttle operation, swirl flap operation, EGR valve and cooler will prevent the DDE from regenerating the DPF. • The customer’s driving style can also cause the DPF to become blocked if they do not drive the car for long enough journeys.

Repair Steps: 1. Carry out a quick test and ensure there are no other fault codes stored in the DDE. Other faults in the DDE relating to glow plug operation, throttle operation, swirl flap operation, EGR valve and cooler must be addressed and corrected if they are currently present. The DDE needs to be fault free and the engine must reach a minimum of 76 degrees Celsius whilst driving.

2. Go into the DDE and then diagnostic requests.

Locate the DPF backpressure diagnostic request: - At idle it needs to be under 35mbar.

- At 2000 RPM it needs to be under 65mbar - At 4000 RPM it needs to be under 130/150mbar - Figures a lot higher than the specified values will cause the fault codes to be entered and will stop a DPF regen 3. Use a suitable DPF cleaner, these are available from various sources. Follow the instructions provided with the cleaner to achieve the desired results. Stubborn DPFs can be cleaned by removing the filter and cleaning with an Ultrasonic cleaning machine. Companies who have Ultrasonic cleaning machines normally provide you with a flow test result so you can see how well the cleaning has worked.

Parts Required: DPF cleaner For more information on how Opus IVS can support your workshop, visit www.opusivs-au.com or email sales-au@opusivs.com 28

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2022

PRODUCT R&D

TRANSFORMED BY MILWAUKEE

Rob Herrod reflects on just how far workshop tools have come since the ‘70s With a career spanning over four decades, Rob Herrod, the man behind the legendary Herrod Performance, has witnessed countless advancements in the automotive industry.

He has also witnessed the evolution of automotive tools as workshops have transformed since his early days as an apprentice mechanic, to now, managing his world-renowned Ford Performance specialist workshop.

In 1975, Herrod began his career as a mechanic aged 15. He initially participated in work experience with his father, then left school to embark on an apprenticeship. He recalled the tools that he worked with at this time were limited to “normal spanners and bits and pieces.”

“There was nothing really…of what we have now in the way of tools… We had to make do with what we could find,” Herrod said.

“If we never had a tool, we had to make a tool. The only thing we had back in 1975, and earlier when I was a kid, was an air gun.”

Herrod recounted the first game-changer in his father’s workshop was the purchase of an electric gun for removing wheel nuts. But that came with its own set of challenges – namely, hoses and cords.

“It was a nuisance. The cord would break. The cord would twist. And it would always break down and play up,” Herrod said.

The move to a cordless workshop has been a blessing for Herrod who said that cordless tools have without a doubt revolutionised the automotive industry.

“I have had other cordless tools in the past. And I was not particularly happy with (those tools). They were always breaking down or something,” Herrod said.

He says his switch to Milwaukee cordless products has changed that, significantly improving efficiencies for his team.

30

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2022

“We’ve probably reduced, maybe an hour of build on each car by using a Milwaukee cordless tool,” Herrod said.

One of Herrod’s biggest challenges during his early days was lighting.

Fortunately, that’s a problem of the past.

“If I go back to 1975… the grief we used to go through! We used to have a handheld light, with a little cage around it that you put a normal light bulb in…

And you’d hang that under the car with the electric lead running somewhere,” he said.

Herrod recalled, not only the blinding glare of these makeshift lights, but just how often they would fall and break.

“Then you’d have to go hunting for a globe, and you’d run out of globes. And you’d do this all day long, every day,” Herrod said.

PRODUCT R&D

“Now with Milwaukee tools, this never happens.

Never. The under hood lights, the lighting systems – all that has just revolutionised the industry.”

Edition Mustang, the Dick Johnson Limited Edition Mustang, and the special edition Ford Mustang R-SPEC.

certain guns and certain tools set up… we just reach for the one, the right one and ‘bing-boombam’ and it’s done,” Herrod said.

During the past three to four years Herrod has trusted the Milwaukee range to support his workshop’s greatest projects.

When building the R-SPEC, Herrod and his team heavily used Milwaukee routers, cordless ratchets and cordless guns. These tools were used along a Ford production line, which to Herrod, demonstrates the quality of these products.

“No matter what (Milwaukee) bring out—it’s above and beyond.”

“When we’re doing a build of a car, we’ll have

“I know. I’ve been. I’ve seen. I started when everything was nowhere... to where it is now, and it’s like, ‘wow’.”

Over that time Herrod estimates that they have built, in-house, around 300 supercharged Mustangs, including the Scott McLaughlin Limited

“I keep saying to all my guys that work for me ‘you guys have got it so good. You do not understand how good you got it!’

For more from Milwaukee Tool, visit www.milwaukeetool.com.au

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine Publisher, Cameron McLachlan, takes a look at the products driving the automotive aftermarket. cameron@aaaa.com.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2022

31

PRODUCTS

THREE IN ONE CAR DOLLY SET

The new OmegaLift three in one car dolly set is available from Shinn Fu Australia Shinn Fu Australia’s 3-in-1 Car Dollies are perfect for freely moving vehicles in crowded workshops and garages. Being especially useful for cars needing to be relocated urgently, regardless of the vehicle’s condition such as the suspension or the tyres removed.

The car dolly set comes out of the box pre-built for quick start up. The box contains two dollies (one pair).

The car dolly is designed to ease the movement and storage of vehicles. Like typical car dollies, it has a platform that supports a vehicle’s wheel.

In addition, it has an integrated stand that can be set up without the use of any tools that can support a vehicle by its frame or pinch weld too.

This allows the same set of dollies to be used both under vehicles with wheels or with vehicles that have had their wheels removed.

When not in use they can be safely stored away by stacking each dolly on top of each other with its specially designed build.

It has been designed for smooth flat floors only, typically in workshops and garages. Avoid rolling over bumps and cracks to prevent sudden shock loads.

Features: • Holds vehicle: by the wheel, by the pinch weld or by the frame • No adapters required • Integrated frame adapters • Locking casters • No tools required – comes pre-built • Adapter secured with pins • Self-stacking design for convenient storage • Sold in one pair (two dollies)

Product Specifications: • Working Load Limit: 900kg/dolly • Caster Diameter: 100mm • Minimum Size: 520mm x 352mm x 178mm • Maximum Size: 520mm x 352mm x 352mm For more information, visit www.shinnfu.com.au 34

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2022

NEW AAP BRAKE ROTORS For performance 4x4 applications

Australian Automotive Parts (AAP) has recently released a comprehensive range of performance 4x4 brake rotors adding to Ultima’s extensive range of brake components.

AAP explains that all of the Ultima 4x4 range of performance brake rotors are slotted and dimpled to provide greater braking power while still retaining the strength of a solid rotor.

All Ultima 4x4 rotors are Geomat coated and painted black, ensuring no rust over the life of the rotor.

AAP says Ultima’s Heavy Duty 4x4 disc pad program provides the perfect match to these performance rotors.

It states the range covers all popular 4x4 applications and is competitively priced, making a 4x4 brake upgrade affordable.

AAP’s brake program includes Disc Rotors, Disc Pads, Brake Shoes, Hydraulic Brake Cylinders and Calipers.

Over the coming months an additional 100 new rotor and disc pad SKUs will be added to the ranges.

These will include High Carbon and cross drilled brake rotors for European applications, for direct OE replacement.

This expansion will see Ultima’s brake rotor program exceed 1200-part numbers.

Additional disc pads will also be added to Ultima’s Ceramic pad program.

All of Ultima’s ceramic pads are ECR90 approved, meaning the compound in each individual pad is specifically formulated to suit the vehicle make and model.

AAP explains that today, this accreditation is the standard in Europe and without it for each part number, manufacturers cannot supply disc pads into the EU. For more information, visit www.australianautomotiveparts.com.au

BRINK EUROPEAN TOWBARS SOLUTIONS Now in Australia

TAG Towbars says that thanks to a recent partnership with Brink European Towbar Solutions, Australian drivers can now enjoy the benefits of superior European-style fixed, detachable, and retractable towbars with specific wiring kits.

TAG Towbars says Brink has been synonymous with towbar expertise for over a hundred years, stating that thanks to its core values of innovation, ease of use, and safety, Brink has become a global market leader in designing, testing, and manufacturing European Detachable-Style Towbars.

Vertical Detach Towbars Are you looking for a towbar for your car that becomes completely invisible after use? Then the Brink vertical detachable towbar is the perfect solution, says TAG Towbars. You can take out the ball and store it in the boot, and with most towbars, you can also fold away the socket plate behind the bumper.

Diagonal Detach Towbars Are you looking for a detachable towbar that excels in user-friendliness? TAG Towbars says you will find the diagonal detachable towbar is the solution, stating that in no other detachable system is it

as easy and effortless to unlock and lock the ball.

As an added advantage, the sleeve of the towbar remains largely invisible after the ball is removed.

Fixed Towbars (Swan Neck) Do you frequently use a towbar? Then the fixed towbar is the right fit for you. It is permanently available, maintenance-free, and will last the lifetime of your car, says TAG Towbars. The fixed towbar is suitable for every type of bike carrier, and it can easily take any challenge, be it towing a trailer, caravan, horse float, or boat trailer.

Brink European Towbars Solutions are now available for immediate delivery from TAG Towbars Distribution partners all over Australia.

For more information, call 1300 669 122 or visit www.swd.com.au or www.tagtowbars.com.au

PRODUCTS

XTREME CLUTCH: PERFORMANCE IN THE DETAILS Xtreme Clutch is a specialist brand in performance street and motorsport clutch kits As a division of Australian Clutch Services, Xtreme Clutch draws on over 30 years of experience to provide high quality solutions for vehicle owners looking for a clutch that can handle increased torque, but also remains enjoyable to drive.

With an extensive in-house engineering team and testing facility, Xtreme Clutch are also specialists in the development of custom clutch solutions for vehicles with engine or gearbox conversions.

The capability to develop performance clutch kits in-house is a major factor in the success of the brand both in Australia and overseas.

Xtreme Clutch says it goes to great lengths in the development process of a clutch to ensure the best components are paired for optimal performance whilst minimising the impact on driveability and comfort.

“We are looking at the finer details with each of our kits to ensure we provide the best solution we can for each specific application,” Australian Clutch Services General Manager, Simon Acton, said.

“Our ability to test our products in-house gives us

a great advantage in the market and combined with real world testing and our years of experience, we are able to provide comprehensive clutch kit solutions.”

Australian Clutch Services says it always looks to provide everything the installer may need in one kit, minimising the chances of installers needing to source additional parts to complete the job.

“Whether it be for our performance clutch upgrades or our standard replacement ClutchPro brand, we are always looking to go to that extra level with our kits,” Simon said.

“All of our performance clutch upgrades come with an alignment tool, release bearing and spigot bearing or bush when it is required, but we also offer a variety of different kit options for each application to try and provide the customer with choice for the level of kit they require.

“In these kits we include additional extras such as a replacement concentric slave cylinder, performance flywheel, braided clutch lines, flywheel bolts, pressure plate bolts, spline grease and thread lock. Some of our kits even come with

specific tools to help with the installation process.”

The Xtreme Clutch range includes everything from single disc organic upgrades with a performance pressure plate all the way through to quad plate specialist kits for high powered motorsport applications such as time attack.

Please scan the QR code for a behind the scenes clutch development video from ACS.

The range is distributed through a nationwide distribution network and supported by 10 warehouses around Australia.

For more information, please call 1800 CLUTCH or visit www.xtremeclutch.com.au

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2022

37

PRODUCTS

NEW LOADRYDER ONBOARD SCALES From Pedders

Pedders has recently released its new Pedders LoadRyder Onboard Scales as a cost-effective solution which delivers critical real-time vehicle weight information for light commercial vehicles.

The LoadRyder Onboard Scales system is designed for dual axled vehicles with standard coil or leaf suspension.

Each axle is monitored with a robust I.P666 rated potentiometer, relaying signals via the inbuilt Wi-Fi transmitter.

Utilising an integrated accelerometer, data is then transmitted to the display when the vehicle is stationary, and the handbrake is applied.

An audible alarm will sound if the total vehicle or the axle weight maximum is exceeded.

The breakthrough technology allows users to: • Maximise payloads – by precisely knowing the weight and axle distribution, you can optimise your fleet’s payload and profitability.

• Reduce WHS risks – ensure your vehicle operators have the data they need to protect them from the dangers related to operating an overloaded vehicle.

• Avoid overloading fines – LoadRyder Onboard Scales will provide highly accurate vehicle weight information, ensuring you avoid the risk of overloading your vehicle, preventing costly fines.

• Meet CoR requirements – chain of responsibility is everyone’s business and with LoadRyder Onboard Scales, Pedders says you can ensure your operations are protected.

Vehicle range: • Toyota Hilux Gen 8 • Ford Ranger PX111 (07/2018 onwards)

38

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2022

• Toyota Landcruiser 79 Series Single and Dual Cab • Holden Colorado RG2 and RG3 • Isuzu D-Max (2012 – 06/2020)

Key features: • Easy to read in-vehicle display • Dynamic front and rear axle load weights • Real-time payload monitoring • In-vehicle overload warning alarm • Remote notification capabilities For more information, visit www.pedders.com.au

PRODUCTS

BULLETPROOF SERIES TRAILER LAMPS The new lamps from LED Autolamps will be landing in 2022 LED Autolamps says it is proud to release its latest series of Bulletproof Series Trailer Lamps with two universal sizes (211 series and 212 series) created with a new design, look and appeal.

LED Autolamps, which states its brand name has been known and trusted for over 20 years, says the first thing you will notice is the sleek, uniquely styled blackened no lens design which it says incredibly offers all required functions with Stop/ Tail/ Indicator and a handy inbuilt Reflex Reflector with both left and right-hand sides.

Extreme environments demand a product to be manufactured to withstand these situations and LED Autolamps says it specifically designed the 211 and 212 series with this in mind.

“We have included super-tough polycarbonate construction but, more importantly, sealed the LEDs and circuitry using a specially formulated flexible black resin,” LED Autolamps National Sales Manager, Ashley Piper, said.

Ashley went on to say that the 211 and 212 series are purpose-built and manufactured to the highest standards, and states you can rest assured they are up to any task.

“The high impact plastics with solid-state circuitry ensures shock and vibration resistance, delivering on a super bright even spread output that not only looks distinctive, but is also UV, Acidic/alkaline and saltwater resistant and exceeds all required Australian Road standards with ECE approvals,” Ashley said.

“We are so confident in the specially formulated resin coupled with a no lens design and extreme testing to IP68 rating that we offer a 10-year warranty for peace of mind.”

The 211 series small square has an overall size of 100mm x 100mm x 20mm, with the rectangular shaped 212 Series size measuring 160mm x 90mm x 20mm, which LED Autolamps says is a perfect size to suit most small to medium trailers.

Stainless steel fittings with tinned copper wiring encased in sheathing are included for extra protection for constant environmental exposure and long-term durability. Electrically they run at 12 Volt-only, and have been made to ECE R10 EMC standards for electrical interference.

LED Autolamps states that its entire operation is certified to ISO9001:2015 – the internationally recognised Quality Management Standard – and further explains that its main production facility is certified to IATF16949:2016 standards.

LED Autolamps says that even more importantly, conformity of production, exceptional service, technical expertise, supply reliability and dedicated after-sales care are guaranteed.

Both lamps are available in a twin retail blister pack with left and right-hand side lamps and single bulk packs for OEM manufacturers.

“If you want to provide your customers something unique in design and unparalleled quality that will give you the ‘wow’ factor you are after, then check out our website or give us a call,” Ashley said.

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

GOOD ENGINE MANAGEMENT The key is the use of quality parts

Since the mid-90s, Unique Auto Parts says it has been offering affordable and quality solutions for the repair of European vehicles with a focus on new parts for Mercedes Benz, BMW, Volkswagen, Mini, Peugeot, Renault, Citroen, Volvo, Porsche, Seat, Skoda, Audi, Alfa, Fiat, and Land Rover.

This includes parts for passenger and commercial vehicles.

Unique Auto Parts says its representatives have travelled the world to source the best quality parts from leading aftermarket brands such as JP Group, Quinton Hazell, Meyle, Trucktec, Victor Reinz, Bosch and Hella.

Sensors are the key to engine management and ensuring that cars are fitted with quality sensors which can be relied on is vital.

Unique Auto Parts explains that it has a large range of sensors and solenoids predominantly from well known quality brands Bosch and Hella; with available parts including but not limited to

oxy sensors, crankshaft sensors, coolant temp sensors, oil pressure sensors, knock sensors, DPF sensors, exhaust temp sensors and camshaft variable solenoids.

In addition to sensors, Unique Auto Parts also stocks other vital components including fuel injectors, air flow meters and idle speed actuators.

Engine maintenance also extends to ensuring that you help your car keep its cool when the summer temperatures begin to rise.

Unique Auto Parts says the best way to do this is to guarantee that all the major components of your engine’s cooling system are of the best quality so that they can function at their peak.

Unique Auto Parts says its team can help you out with water pumps, thermostats, radiators and expansion tanks as well other integral cooling components such as hoses and much more.

It states that ordering parts is quick and easy – you

can simply provide a VIN or registration number and the Unique Auto Parts team can ensure that the right parts are received every time.

With five fully stocked warehouses around Australia, Unique Auto Parts says it is well situated to offer a premium delivery service using a combination of its own fleet of delivery vehicles and the fastest and most efficient couriers.

Unique Auto Parts is also a Capricorn preferred supplier, so it encourages you to have your CAP number ready when you call.

For more information, call 1300 864 864 to be connected to your nearest store, of visit www.uniqueatutoparts.com.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2022

41

PRODUCTS

AUTOMOTIVE FLOORING SOLUTIONS Introducing the Industrial Floor Range from TekTile Australia The TekTile Industrial Range was developed with the needs of the automotive industry in mind.

TekTile says its research and development team has ensured its products boast features including non-slip and chemical resistance, noise and dust reduction and provide a level of insulation to cold concrete slabs.

They can be ordered in multiple colours and configurations and logos can be embossed onto the product at time of production.

With point/dynamic loads available up to 130 and 95 kg/cm2 respectively, excellent chemical, abrasion and anti-slip properties, TekTile says its Industrial Range will easily cope with operating vehicles, forklifts and the rigorous activities associated with automotive and workshop environments. Anti-Static/ESD tiles are also available for clients supplying sensitive electronic equipment.

The tiles overlay an existing slab/hard surface and in most cases, can be installed without the need to stop trading.

The TekTile Industrial Range can be utilised instantly after installation – there is no need for curing times and the tiles are not affected by moisture. For those on a budget, TekTile says the tiles are extremely easy to self-install, or TekTile Australia can offer an installation service, if required. And should a client relocate to other premises, the tiles can be removed and re-used.

TekTile says it is an easy alternative to Epoxy Resin floors and says its system is proven globally with tens of thousands of square meters laid. The tiles were even laid in the Pit Lanes at the F1 Baku GP last year as an alternative to painted floors that were proving high maintenance for the client.

TekTile says its tiles have been designed and manufactured with the environment in mind. It states that it proudly manufactures its tiles without any wastage as any rejected and surplus material is recycled. Up to 80 percent recycled content is used in the making of TekTile products and 100

If you have a workshop floor, garage or industrial environment that needs upgrading or simply a fresh new look, TekTile says its tiles are a unique solution.

42

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2022

percent of the tiles can be recycled at the end of the life cycle.

The full TekTile Industrial Range is supported with a 10-year wear warranty.

TekTile will be exhibiting at the AAAAExpo in April at Stand E16 and invites you to stop by for a chat to find out more about its product.

Alternatively, you can contact TekTile’s General Manager Steve Deakin, steved@tektile.com.au or Product Specialist Wendy King, wendyk@tektile.com.au or call 1300 662 214 to learn more.

For more information, go to www.tektile.com.au

PRODUCTS

GYS JOINS COOLDRIVE

CoolDrive Auto Parts’ comprehensive range of workshop tools and equipment has once again expanded The company has been appointed as the official importer of GYS Battery Charger/Battery Support Units and Powerduction Induction Heat Tool products into Australia.

The GYS Flash Battery Support Units (BSUs) are ideal for stabilising the vehicle’s battery power, providing energy when the engine is turned off.

This is critical during the diagnostic phase, when diagnostic work is being carried out, or even for the showroom demonstration of vehicles.

Additional advantages of the GYS Flash BSU include charging times twice as fast than traditional chargers, allowing for showroom power supply without a battery fitted to the vehicle, and providing continuous power supply when fitting new batteries without risking vehicle memories.

With multiple configurations available to support a wide array of customer needs, the GYS Flash BSU gives peace of mind.

Meanwhile, the Powerduction Induction Heating Systems heat the core of metalwork in a fraction of a second, making the units ideal for mechanical engineering, car bodywork or general

maintenance, all without affecting nearby rubber or plastic components.

The precision targeting of the system is ideal for releasing or disassembling a range of items, such as steering rods, ball joints, brake discs and hoses, exhaust manifold flanges and pipes, shock absorber nuts, thread-locked screws, bolts and more.

The system is also ideal for straightening bent chassis’ in repair shops, while in general industry it has found favour annealing metal parts, heating to bend, brazing and pre-heating.

Powerduction is available in various power levels, making it ideal for many different environments.

“Over the past 57 years from its base in France, GYS has grown a reputation as a reliable workshop partner, with many car manufacturers worldwide recommending, or partnering with GYS for its products for use in dealerships, including the Volkswagen Group, Mercedes-Benz, Jaguar Land Rover and Volvo, amongst many,” CoolDrive Auto Parts Category Manager - Tools and Equipment, Matthew Douglass, said.

“We welcome GYS aboard, with its products complementing the broad offering we now bring to the Australian and New Zealand markets.”

One of the newest products made available globally by GYS is the GYS Flash 125.12 CNT Battery Charger, which was recently homologated for workshop use by BMW. Completely customisable via a USB connection, the units deliver outstanding fast charging capabilities for most advanced vehicles.

The system is rated for charging 12V lead-acid or lithium batteries from 20 to 1,500Ah, with diagnostic support for 12V batteries of vehicles during the diagnostic phase up to 120A. For more information, visit www.cooldrive.com.au

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2022

45

PRODUCTS

PRESENTS NEW LIDAR NEW LV AUTOMOTIVE VALEO “Making autonomous mobility a reality” SOLUTION For a fast, easy and secure ignition source

JAS Oceania is now supplying an innovative product that provides a vehicle ignition source quickly, easily and importantly, safely.

The LV Alternator Sensing Ignition Relay 12/24V provides a compact design and is ECU safe.

“This LV product is a game changer – it is an ignition relay that is practically plug and play and doesn’t affect a cars’ ECU,” JAS Oceania Accessories Product Manager, Dave Soorkia, said.

“As an Auto Electrical Specialist, JAS Oceania likes to source the latest and greatest products for our customers. We have introduced this product to make the process of finding an ignition source quicker and easier when completing a job.”

It will supply a ready solution for daytime running lights, DC to DC converters and beacons and comes with a three-year warranty.

JAS Oceania says it is thrilled to introduce this new product into the stable for the LV Automotive brand.

It states its LV Automotive brand is a trusted leader in the Australian market for quality and reliability, offering the latest technology and durable components ideal for various applications.

“This LV product is a great solution, as the Alternator Sensing Relay has the same footprint as a five pin mini relay and it’s ECU safe. Plus, it removes the headache of dealing with a CANBUS system for an ignition source,” Dave said.

JAS Oceania explains the LV Alternator Sensing Ignition Relay 12/24V can be installed with as little as three wires, and is a sturdy, solid state construction with no moving parts. It also reportedly offers zero risk to CAN or ECU lines.

JAS Oceania has 35 branches across Australia, employing over 200 people. The LV Alternator Sensing Ignition Relay 12/24V is available in store now.

For more information, please contact JAS Oceania National Sales Manager, Mitch Bullas, via sales@jasoceania.com.au or 03 9317 2608/0437 460 276.

46

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2022

Valeo recently presented its third generation scanning LiDAR, set to make its market debut in 2024.

Valeo says this new technology offers significantly enhanced performance and makes autonomous mobility a reality while providing previously unseen levels of road safety.

“Valeo’s third generation LiDAR is a major technological advance toward the autonomous vehicle,” Valeo Senior Vice-President, R&D and Strategy, Geoffrey Bouquot, said.

“This upgrade strengthens Valeo’s technological and industrial leadership in the field, when it was already the only supplier on the market currently series-producing an automotive-grade LiDAR scanner. Our number one goal with this device remains the same – to save lives on the road.”

Valeo says its third generation LiDAR delivers unrivaled performance in terms of range, resolution and frame rate.

It reconstructs a 3D real-time image of the vehicle’s surroundings at a rate of 4.5 million pixels and 25 frames per second. Compared to the previous generation, the resolution has been increased 12-fold, the range three-fold and the viewing angle 2.5-fold.

Thanks to its unique perception capabilities, Valeo says this new LiDAR can see things that humans, cameras and radars cannot. This means that driving can be delegated to the vehicle in many situations (level two automation and above), including on the highway at speeds of up to 130km/h. Even in such situations, a vehicle fitted with the third-generation scanning LiDAR can manage emergency situations autonomously, says Valeo.

Valeo’s scanning LiDAR detects, recognises and classifies all objects located around the car. If the objects are moving, it measures their speed and direction.

The scanning LiDAR can reportedly adapt to all light conditions, whether it is dazzlingly bright or pitch black. It even measures the density of raindrops to calculate the right braking distance.

It even tracks nearby vehicles, even when they are no longer in the driver’s line of sight, and uses

algorithms to anticipate their trajectories and trigger the necessary safety maneuvers.

Thanks to these features, the scanning LiDAR protects people inside the car and those around it – pedestrians, cyclists and other road users.

Beyond the vehicles it equips, this LiDAR will alert, via the Cloud, other vehicles of road hazards so that the community benefits from its exceptional perception capabilities.

Valeo designs and manufactures the entire system, including the hardware, the software and the associated artificial intelligence, the “brain” that combines collected data and enables the vehicle to instantly make the right decision. Its software automatically adapts to the environment and improves its performance over time through regular updates.

Valeo’s LiDARs are produced in Germany at Valeo’s Wemding plant in Bavaria, where components are assembled with a micron level of precision. The plant’s production lines draw on Valeo’s state-of-the-art expertise in optics, mechanics and photonics (the branch of physics that focuses on the emission and detection of light particles, or photons). Three hundred engineers at Valeo are dedicated solely to this technology, for which over 500 patents have already been filed.

Valeo says it was the first, and to date remains the only, company to produce a scanning LiDAR on an industrial scale. It has already produced over 150,000 units and says 99 percent of cars equipped with a scanning LiDAR scanner worldwide are equipped with a Valeo scanning LiDAR. Up to 30 percent of premium new vehicles are set to reach level three automation by 2030, and to do so will need to be equipped with LiDAR technology, says Valeo.

As well as cars, autonomous shuttles, robotaxis, delivery droids, autonomous trucks or the agriculture, mining and infrastructure sectors will need to be equipped with one or more LiDARs. Valeo states that the LiDAR market is expected to represent more than $50 billion by 2030 and its new third generation LiDAR will be a key contributor to this change in scale.

For more information, visit www.valeo.com

PRODUCTS

NEUTON POWER A propriety brand from YHI Power

Neuton Power’s popular series of enhanced flooded batteries (EFBs) and absorbent glass mat (AGM) car batteries distributed by YHI Power Pty Ltd were designed for vehicles with start/stop systems with very large electrical drains.

EFBs are the improved version of the wet flooded batteries, while AGM batteries benefit from features not found in EFB, such as glass mat separators, a one-way vent system and increased pack pressure.

YHI Power explains both of these battery types incorporate the punch grid technology for better rigidity, reduced corrosion, plate growth and also reduce the possibility of internal short circuiting.

It states all of these provide better active mass utilisation, and therefore improve cycle life and charge acceptance.

Neuton Power EFB This range of batteries is made to deliver durable and reliable performance in harsh environments. It is designed to be maintenance-free and have very low water loss, eliminating the need to add electrolyte. Its innovative operating condition and design can deliver more than two times the engine starts compared to its

standard lead-acid counterpart. YHI Power says the battery is also improved for up to two times quicker charging due to its unique paste formula.

Technical features include an enhanced grid structure, lead-calcium (Pb-Ca) technology; a hybrid paste formula for superior power, durability and improved deep-cycle performance; a special curing process to enhance plate strength; a carbon additive for improved conductivity; a compressed assembly for strengthened vibration resistance; and a special electrolyte additive to reduce acid stratification.

Neuton Power AGM This range of batteries has no free-flowing electrolyte, which makes it safe, green, and maintenance-free.

Its compressed assembly is designed to prevent the shedding of active mass for a longer service life, while its unique hybrid paste formula is formulated to deliver enhanced cycle life and reduced internal resistance.

YHI Power says Neuton Power AGM batteries have more than four times the engine start capacity and double the charge acceptance compared to a standard lead-acid.

These batteries are designed with the electrolyte absorbed in its glass mat, and it ensures there is no free-flowing liquid which eliminates any electrolyte stratification while reducing grid corrosion. YHI Power says it also has improved oxygen-recombination during battery charging to help prevent gas evolution and water loss.

Technical features include a punch grid and lead calcium (Pb-Ca) technology for better oxidation and corrosion resistance; a hybrid paste formula for superior power, durability, and an improved deep discharge life cycle; highly efficient microporous glass mat separators that absorb electrolytes; and the fact that gas evolution and water loss is eliminated from oxygen recombination during battery charging.

For more information, contact YHI Power at 1300 722 028 or inquiry@yhipower.com.au or visit www.yhipower.com.au

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2022

49

PRODUCTS

RECHARGE IN A FLASH

Projecta says its revolutionary jumpstarters can keep you moving Having debuted its revolutionary Rapid Recharge Technology (RRT) in its Intelli-Start (IS) 1500A professional jumpstarter, Projecta says it is now making this remarkable innovation more broadly available, starting with its new consumer-grade IS920 and IS1220 emergency variants, which replace earlier IS910E and IS1210E models.

Like the IS1500 model jumpstarter, the new IS920 and IS1220 do away with traditional recharging.

Instead, once the vehicle is running, the user simply leaves the jumpstarter connected to the running vehicle for 40 seconds to replenish the charge used to start it.

50

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2022

The new models’ Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO₄) battery and clever engineering allows them to accept charge from the vehicle alternator and receive a much higher current charge compared with other Lithium batteries and conventional lead acid batteries.

This saves time and increases convenience and benefits include a longer operational life (up to 1800 battery cycles) – that is around four times higher than competitor products.

Both the IS920 and IS1220 are suitable for use on a wide range of vehicles including passenger cars and four-wheel drives, motorcycles and watercraft and can be used in extreme temperatures, even as low as -20°C. Providing 900A peak amps and 240A clamp power, the IS920 can start four, six and eight-cylinder petrol engines of up to a 6.0l capacity and will have enough charge to jump a vehicle with a flat battery up to 14 times (more of course if the jumpstarter is recharged at the time of use).

The more powerful IS1220 with 1200A peak amps and 400A clamp power provides even greater

versatility and is suitable for petrol engines of up to 7.0l capacity and on diesels as large as 4.5l. This unit holds enough charge to jump start a petrol engine up to 68 times or a diesel as many as 34 times. With the patented RRT though, it is fast and easy to keep the device at full charge all of the time.

As well as being easy, convenient and practical, the new IS920 and IS1220 jumpstarters are extremely safe to use. Their LiFePO₄ batteries have been purpose-built for jumpstarting and specifically for cranking, making them much safer than the Lithium Cobalt (LiCoO₂) batteries found in many competitors’ jumpstarters.

Projecta’s latest Intelli-Start IS920 and IS1220 jumpstarter models can be purchased at all leading transport, automotive and four-wheel drive outlets throughout Australia.

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

PRODUCTS

GATES LAUNCHES NEXT-GEN THERMALPRO ELECTRIC WATER PUMP PLATFORM For Electrified Vehicle Applications

Gates Australia is broadening its presence in hybrid and battery electric vehicle (BEV) applications with the launch of its next-generation technology for electric water pumps (EWP) used in automotive, light commercial and heavy-duty vehicles.

company’s extensive heritage in OEM and aftermarket vehicle thermal management solutions.

The Gates ThermalPro Electronic Water Pump technology is the culmination of significant investments in electronics, software, motor design and computational fluid dynamics.

The proprietary mechanical design completely isolates the electronics assembly from potential exposure to coolant fluids, significantly improving pump reliability.

With more than 30 million Gates water pumps installed, these investments build upon the

Importantly, the patent-pending technology also improves motor efficiency, which is critical on fully electric platforms where electric water pumps can be significant consumers of battery life.

52

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2022

The ThermalPro platform incorporates design advancements that enable it to cover a broad range of applications from 100 Watts up to three Kilowatts. electric vehicle models or developing advanced thermal management technologies to enable improved performance and efficiency of these highly complex systems, we are dedicated to maintaining our leadership position in both aftermarket and OEM applications.

“At Gates, we’ve been anticipating and investing in the exciting new market opportunity presented by the global shift to electrified transportation,” Gates Chief Marketing Officer and Senior Vice President of Strategic Planning, Tom Pitstick, said.

“The energy efficiency, performance and reliability of our next-generation ThermalPro electric water pumps are well suited for the demanding thermal management requirements of electrified vehicles and fully support our vision to provide the best solutions for our customers.”

“Whether it’s building out our extensive catalog of products for over 1,500 applications across 30

For more information, contact Gates Australia on 03 9797 9688 or at salesAUS@gates.com

PRODUCTS

HELLA PAGID BRAKE SYSTEMS

Providing a comprehensive brake service solution for European vehicles With a high level of desirability driving the growth in sales of European cars in recent years, the popularity of marques such as Audi, BMW and Volkswagen is ever increasing.

The Australian Bureau of Statistics 2021 Motor Vehicle Census revealed the number of leading European vehicles on our roads has increased on average over 50 percent during the last five years and shows no signs of slowing.

European styling flair, brand appeal and high levels of refinement are amongst the reasons why European cars are finding favour with Australian car buyers.

However, to meet the demands of their domestic markets, typically European passenger cars are developed to offer different driving dynamics to their American and Asian counterparts too, with steering, chassis, suspension and braking all playing a role in shaping the vehicle’s characteristics and the driving experience.

When it comes to friction components, European manufacturers favour low-metallic brake friction

materials. With a lower metal content, low metallic friction compounds offer improved heat dissipation, more consistent braking performance and are kinder to discs than the semi-metallic friction formulations used by many Asian and American manufacturers.

HELLA says replacing worn brake pads and shoes on European vehicles with anything other than high quality low-metallic friction components can alter the characteristics of the vehicle under braking and result in increased vibration, more noise and longer stopping distances.

HELLA Pagid Brake Systems – the result of a joint venture between HELLA and TMD Friction – provides a comprehensive range of brake pads, brake shoes, discs and drums that are developed and manufactured to the precise specifications of the original part, making them the perfect partner for European vehicles, says HELLA. Its extensive OE program means many European models roll off production lines equipped with Pagid brake friction.

Pagid is also trusted by race teams competing at some of the highest levels of motorsport, a competency which is transferred from the track to our roads, says HELLA. The HELLA Pagid range covers 99 percent of European passenger cars and light commercial vehicles, including all the top selling European models in Australia and New Zealand, such as the VW Amarok, Skoda Octavia and Volkswagen Golf, and performance cars such as the Audi R8 and Porsche 911.

HELLA Pagid products will be on display at the AAAExpo on the HELLA stand, J2.

For more information, call 1800 061 729 or email info.au@HELLA.com

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2022

53

PRODUCTS

PARKSAFE WIRELESS AHD DIGITAL CAMERA SYSTEMS

High performance commercial vehicle camera systems It was not so many years ago that commercial vehicle owners would never have considered installing wireless camera systems on their vehicles due to low product quality and unstable operation resulting in interference and too often very poor picture quality.

Burg Design says now that has all changed and in the years to come this very essential safety feature will become the must have for all commercial vehicles just like it has on passenger vehicles.

DAYCO ENHANCES ITS INDUSTRIAL BELT SOLUTIONS New Drive Design Tool released

Dayco, a leading engine products and drive systems supplier for the automotive and aftermarket industries, is also a major player in the industrial sector where it supplies V-belts under its premium, original equipment Gold Label brand.

These are supplemented with two timing belt brands, HT Power for both imperial and metric applications and HT Power Plus, which caters solely for metric specification machinery.

Accompanying these comprehensive industrial belt solutions, Dayco has developed a useful web-based drive design tool that enables users to identify the correct belt and drive combination for specific applications.

“This free resource is a customer-focused tool designed to help our customers find what they need, for both V and synchronous drive systems,” Dayco’s Emanuele Crotta said.

“Naturally, it allows them to quickly and efficiently identify the correct belt and sheave combinations or belt and sprocket combinations for their machinery requirements.

“However, where the design tool really comes into its own is when the machinery is not of a regular design or is not of standard dimensions, and the user therefore requires a customised solution.

It says it is proud to introduce the new PARKSAFE Wireless AHD Digital Camera Systems for commercial vehicles with many advanced features and benefits such as: • Full High-Definition AHD Monitor with crystal clear images and high performance long range 2.4GHz digital wireless receiver.

• Heavy Duty AHD infrared night vision 2.4GHZ Digital Cameras with long range transmitters for safety when reversing. They can also be side mounted for blind spot turning.

• The cameras have a 110-degree view angle and guidelines that are switchable on/off via the monitor menu.

• Installation is fast and easy and it only takes a fraction of the time it would usually take to fit up a fully hard wired in system, thus saving time and money.

You can choose from the compact size 5” or 7” screen size monitors and both models come with single or split screen images.

The system comes with a two-year warranty.

For further information, contact Burg Design on sales@burgdesign.com.au 54

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2022

“Through the combination of a comprehensive data resource and a highly developed back-end system, users can input multiple parameters such as shaft speed, engine speed, pulley diameter and belt length, as well as service factors, which together provides the options they can select from to optimise the performance of the specific application.

“The tool also allows users to save and share the search results and on-going projects can be tagged to be easily accessed at a later date.

“So, all in all, it’s an incredibly helpful tool that makes the complicated process of correctly selecting the correct drive combination, much more straightforward and less time consuming.”

For more information about the Dayco Industrial product range, please visit www.daycoaftermarket.com/en/ product-category/industrial

GEAR UP WITH WHEEL PRODUCTS From Gear-X

Gear-X has an extensive range of wheel and wheel related products – so many that distributor HPP Lunds now has several catalogues to cover the collection.

The newest is the Gear-X Wheel and Tyre catalogue which includes its tyre plug repair kits: the larger comes in a handy carry case with several tools and plugs; the smaller has two hand tools and three plugs.

Also in this catalogue are tyre valve cores, valve tools, valve stems, valve caps, brass tyre deflators and a tyre gauge.

Another catalogue is devoted solely to wheel nuts, lock nuts and washers with sizes to suit metric and imperial bolts. There are open ended nuts, conical, mag and long shank versions of wheel nuts and lock nuts available.

The third catalogue has a range of wheel trims to suit wheels from 12” to the largest at 17” with trims in bright silver, matt silver, black, black and silver, black and red, black and white as well as

spinner style wheels in silver with red or blue, these are in 14” or 15” sizes. A single band trim in silver is also available in 13”, 14”, 15” and 16” sizes.

Gear-X products is a brand that is owned and distributed by HPP Lunds with trade enquiries welcome. Catalogues are available in both hard copy and digital format.

For more information, visit www.hpplunds.com.au or call Ben Leonard on 07 3722 1111.

PRODUCTS

STERLING PARTS EXPO BOUND The company is set to make its debut at the AAAExpo Sterling Parts is proud to announce it will be an exhibitor at the long-awaited Australian Auto Aftermarket Expo (AAAExpo) in 2022.

Sterling Parts says it welcomes the opportunity to take part in this significant event amongst 250 leading brands and key players of the performance automotive aftermarket industry in Australia, Oceania and the broader Pacific region.

As part of its debut at the AAAExpo, Sterling Parts will be showcasing its brand, services and a range of premium quality aftermarket replacement parts from over 40 worldwide brands.

Sterling Parts has also announced that for some lucky visitors, there will be surprise giveaways.

Sterling Parts also prides itself on being its client’s first point of call for high quality and reliable parts, which it says rivals and at times even surpasses that of the original equipment manufacturers (OEM).

At this year’s AAAExpo, Sterling Parts will take the opportunity to shine a spotlight on MECHS; its premium suspension range.

Sterling Parts says its team has developed MECHS to provide customers with the highest quality aftermarket suspension products at an affordable price, built to outperform the competition and rival their OEM. MECHS has a wide range of control arms for all vehicle makes and models designed for ease of installation and to save time for the installer.

Sterling Parts says all MECHS control arms are manufactured with OE-equivalent materials and manufacturing technology, making them fundamentally strong while providing better wear characteristics, longer service life and improved customer confidence.

It says the MECHS range of strut mounts are manufactured with high quality OE Duro rubber and is supplied with ultra-low friction bearings, to provide exceptional longevity along with reducing noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) resulting in a smoother driving experience.

While some strut mounts are known to fail sooner than others, Sterling Parts says its high quality

MECHS strut mounts are built to withstand Australian roads and conditions.

Whatever your needs are, Sterling Parts says it is confident you can always rely on MECHS for exceedingly exceptional suspension that assures sharper steering, better handling, more grip and less body roll.

If you are looking for premium quality suspension at an affordable price for your vehicle or business, or if you want to find out more about the MECHS range of parts, Sterling Parts invites you to visit it at the AAAExpo on Stand F51.

If you are unable to make it to the Expo, you can visit www.sterlingparts.com.au for more information.

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2022

57

PRODUCTS

KÄRCHER BLASTS OFF World’s first dry ice cleaning technology launched Kärcher has launched a new product using dry ice blasting, the first of its kind in the cleaning industry.

It produces the ice pellets required to clean on demand from liquid CO2. This is easily available in bottles and can be stored for long periods of time.

The global leader in cleaning technology says the IB 10/8 L2P is the only machine on the market with integrated dry ice production, which allows industries such as the motoring industry to reduce lead times, dry ice waste and improve efficiencies of cleaning using a dry ice method.

The Ice Blaster creates the pellets and uses them as a spray agent. The method is non-abrasive, produces zero spray agent residues and allows users to remove dirt from sensitive surfaces with minimal effort.

Typical dry ice blasting requires the purchase of dry ice pellets from a specialist supplier. The pellets have a limited lifespan and often last no longer than a few days.

Knowing the exact amount of ice required for the cleaning task at hand can be difficult; order too much and you have waste or don’t order enough, and you can’t complete the clean.

Dry ice blasting in this way also requires planning to order the pellets ahead of time and taking into account lead times for delivery.

Kärcher says its latest innovation, the IB 10/8 L2P, removes these challenges.

58

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2022

The IB 10/8 L2P works particularly well in the motoring sector where the maintenance of vehicles from the inside out is essential to machine operation.

The IB 10/8 L2P is able to clean rubber seals and rebates, remove stickers and labels with adhesive residue, as well as the removal of traces of rubber folds. It is also ideal for cleaning particularly sensitive and valuable wheel rims.

Where the vehicle interior is of concern, the dry ice blaster can remove dirt and stains from fittings and fixtures, buttons, upholstery, box covers, roof liners, carpets and ventilation slots both gently and efficiently, and without any moisture.

The technology is based on the clever connection of mechanical and thermal energy, where dry ice pellets, in the form of solid CO2 at the temperature of -79 ∞C, hit surfaces at a high speed of 150 m/s. The cold causes the dirt to become brittle, allowing for the seamless removal of dirt and stubborn stains.

The product’s ergonomic jet gun is suitable for the cleaning of narrow, angled areas which are often hard to reach. The IB 10/8 L2P also includes an easy-to-use control panel which allows for easy and intuitive operation.

The Kärcher IB 10/8 L2P will be available for order from all Kärcher Centers and Authorised dealers.

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

PRODUCTS

WORKING FROM THE WILD

For many people, the home office has become the new normal in recent times For those with caravans, campers and 4WDs, home is where you park it, creating exciting new possibilities for functional workspaces in wild places.

The biggest challenge when working off grid is keeping your mobile workspace powered up.

Without enough power for your tools of trade, working away from home becomes impossible.

On top of your basics, like a laptop and phone, many can’t work without their daily brew to keep their energy up, and others look forward to a cold drink from the fridge at knock off.

Whether you need printers, cameras, monitors, or lights for the late nights, REDARC says it has everything you need to keep your productivity at its peak.

At the heart of the off-grid office is a sufficient power source. REDARC says its range of lithium (LiFePO4) batteries are lighter than their lead-acid equivalents, store more usable power and offer a lifespan up to ten times longer.

However, while some laptops can run directly off 12V, a lot of office equipment requires mains power.

REDARC’s Pure Sine Wave Inverters convert 12V DC battery power to 240V AC power, allowing you to run your laptop and printer, as well as appliances like coffee machines, kettles, and heaters.

Whilst a sufficient power source is a must, a system without a DC-to-DC battery charger won’t get you very far.

Suitable for all battery types, REDARC says its compact, robust and weatherproof BCDC range will safely maximise the performance and lifespan of your auxiliary batteries, and thanks to their patented charging profiles, keep them topped up to a proven 100 percent.

When you want to spend longer periods off-grid, solar power can provide a constant supply of electricity without the need for main power, your vehicle’s alternator, or a generator, keeping your office open for business indefinitely.

REDARC says its monocrystalline fixed solar panels feature double channel aluminium frames and tempered glass coatings and are available in a range of sizes to maximise the generating capacity of any vehicle’s roof space.

However, if roof mounting isn’t possible, REDARC says its folding panels offer the same robust construction and efficient performance of the fixed panels, in a compact and lightweight package.

If space is at a premium in your office, REDARC says its latest power generation innovation, Amorphous cell solar blankets, are the solution.

Light in weight and able to capture the full spectrum of light for power generation, these flexible blankets are more efficient in shady conditions than traditional cells and can be folded up for compact storage.

For a more cost-effective blanket, REDARC

explains that its Monocrystalline blankets are an efficient and compact solar solution. Light, and with a tough ETFE anti-reflective coating that’s non-stick and scratch resistant, they’re also easy to handle and stow.

When it’s time to work, you need to concentrate on what’s important. With REDARC’s RedVision Total Vehicle Management System, you can monitor and control your entire power system from an app, meaning you can see your state of charge, or get the coffee machine started right from your desk.

Featuring the award winning Manager30, the RedVision System lets you keep multiple batteries charged, monitor power input and usage in real time, and control your appliances remotely.

With storage, solar generation, charging and monitoring, REDARC says it allows you to build an off-grid office that works for you, stating that whether it’s for a few days or for months on end, with the right setup, the world is your oyster – and your office.

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

THE ULTIMATE RACING FILTER

FRAM Filters offers a premium performance range to cover a number of performance engine specifications Filpro Automotive says that the FRAM Racing Filter range is a further addition to the quality of the globally renowned FRAM brand, which has more than 88 years of experience, research and development behind it.

Filpro Automotive explains that racing engines or engines for high performance passenger cars require unique oil filters to meet the demands of these vehicles. It states that the FRAM Racing Filter range provides maximum performance on the street or on the track.

Designed to provide superior high performance engine protection, FRAM Racing Filters are compatible with all engine oil formulations and use precision filtration for optimal performance for both racing, and high-performance street cars.

The racing filters are designed with low-restriction racing media, providing high oil flow to maintain lubrication of moving metal surfaces and to meet the demands of racing conditions.

The filter media features 94 percent efficiency at

20 microns (FRAM Group testing of average filter efficiency of HP3, HP8, HP17, HP20 under ISO 4548-12 for particles greater than 20 microns), for exceptional engine protection.

Filpro further explains that oil pressure levels in racing and performance engines can also far exceed that of the on-road daily driver.

This added pressure requires the racing filters to be made with a heavy-gauge tapping plate and an outer casing made from extra-thick steel (thicker than a standard oil filter) to withstand high pressure flexing from challenging operating conditions.

A spiral-shaped centre tube and tough steel end caps protects against filter collapse; whilst the added screen-over 22psi filter bypass valve (on most part numbers), gives greater engine protection against larger contaminants.

With a history across the United States, FRAM says it has long been synonymous with a renowned racing heritage, most notably within the NASCAR scene.

With applications to fit various vehicle makes and models, including many classic and current high performance drag and circuit racing engines, FRAM Racing Filters have been designed and manufactured to offer a premium quality, premium performance and racing engine filtration product option for racing enthusiasts, high performance vehicle technicians and racing teams.

The range coverage includes a wide number of performance engine specifications including GM, Ford, Chrysler, Nissan and Honda engines, including GM LS1 and LS6.

For more information visit www.framfilters.com.au or contact Filpro Automotive on 08 8193 9675 or info@filpro.com.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2022

61

PRODUCTS

TEKNOROT COMES TO AUSTRALIA

The pioneering company in the global steering and suspension sector is now Down Under Teknorot explains it is Europe’s largest aftermarket manufacturer of steering and suspension components for passenger cars and light commercial vehicles.

Teknorot now has Australian representation through a local business, Teknorot Australia Pty Ltd, which will carry a wide range of steering and suspension products distributed throughout Australia utilising 3PL partners to ensure high standards of delivery times.

Starting its journey in 1992, Teknorot’s production area spans a total of 190,000 m2 with more than 2,700 employees globally.

In line with the growth in the aftermarket and increase in demand of its production, Teknorot launched a new, world class facility in Düzce, Turkey in 2008.

It says its production plant uses the latest technologies and new production methods guaranteeing high quality parts.

Ninety percent of the production is exported to more than 90 countries worldwide. Every year, more than 900 new products are added to the product portfolio which currently has over 12,000 references.

62

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2022

Today Teknorot produces more than 130,000 pieces per day where ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO 27001, ISO 3834 and ISO/TS 1949 quality standards are maintained by Bureau Veritas. They are accredited to supply various OEM and OES components too.

Teknorot produces sheet metal wishbones, aluminium, forged and cast-iron control arms, ball joints, tie rods, tie rod ends, link stabilisers and other rubber/metal parts and delivers them to countries worldwide through its production and distribution centres in Turkey, Spain, India and China.

Teknorot says that as one of the leading automotive production companies in the world, it prioritises advanced technology and customer satisfaction.

Teknorot provides a major contribution to Turkey’s economy and is among Turkey’s top 500 industrial companies.

The company says it has proven that customer satisfaction is its priority by having a strong reputation for ‘on time delivery’ of its exports to Europe, Asia, North America, South America, Middle East, Africa, Oceania and now Australasia.

With its production and distribution facilities in four

different countries and “Always Ahead” motto, Teknorot says it can support its local Australian distributor, Teknorot Australia Pty Ltd, with 95 percent of the Australian automotive market demand.

Teknorot Australia has the sole distribution rights for the Teknorot products and has the global support with local flexibility to supply both existing and new business partners.

Products will be available within the TecDoc and Autoinfo (OSCAR) catalogues as well as on the Teknorot Part Finder apps. Alternatively, contact Warren Wolman at warren@teknorot.com.au For more information, visit www.teknorot.com.au

PRODUCTS

COOLDRIVE OFFERS NEXT GEN BRAKING The company has positioned itself to be a new market leader in brakes

CoolDrive Auto Parts has an impressive selection of brakes from a wide range of leading brands covering street, performance, and track vehicle applications.

Bremtec Brakes At the front of the pack are the Bremtec brake pad and rotor ranges, which include more than 4,000 part numbers that cover over 21.5 million cars.

Bremtec’s Trade-Line brake pads are made with a new advanced Ceramic+ formulation, which leads to reduced wear and significantly less dust.

The Pro-Line Ceramic+ brake pads are Bremtac’s heavy duty brake pad line.

It features an advanced friction formulation that provides improved stopping distances and endurance while eliminating brake dust.

Bremtac also has Endure-Line 4WD Ceramic+ brake pads for 4WDs and SUVs; Euro-Line brake disc rotors for European vehicles; Evolve Performance+ brake pads for superior braking while street driving; and Evolve F2S Street Performance high-carbon brake disc rotors for advanced braking characteristics in high demand driving conditions.

ICER ICER Brakes is one of Europe’s leading independent brake manufacturers with great value for the money, says CoolDrive.

Project-Mu Project-Mu, originating in Japan, is a specialist manufacturer that offers performance brake upgrade kits, top-quality motorsport pads, OEM street replacement pads and discs, and more.

Brembo Brembo has brake discs and pads in its Low-Metallic, NAO, and Xtra ranges with a focus on high performance and minimal noise.

Bosch The headliner of the Bosch braking range at CoolDrive is the Blue-Line range of brake pads, which are ideal for Australian, European, and Asian vehicles.

Fremax Fremax brake discs and drums combine innovation, quality, and safety. Every brake disc rotor in its range is High-Carbon as standard with a patented groove on the surface face that allows for faster bedding in.

Hulk 4x4 Then there’s CoolDrive’s own Hulk 4x4 range, featuring the performanceboosting Big Brake Upgrade kits with forged six piston calipers for the front slotted and dimpled rotors, rear brake drum to disc conversions, pad and rotor upgrades and dual diaphragm brake boosters.

Stolz Wrapping up the main product lines are the Stolz FEX and SFZ premium performance braking system upgrades for a host of applications, including general and sports driving.

For more information, visit cooldrive.com.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2022

65

PRODUCTS

KONI TOPLINE SHOCK ABSORBERS Toperformance says Koni sets the standard for performance shock absorbers Manufacturing adjustable shock absorbers in the Netherlands since the 1940s, Koni’s quality manufacturing and market experience has led to a myriad of applications throughout the automotive industry.

Race programs such as Formula One have utilised Koni’s expertise and brands like Porsche, Lamborghini and Ferrari have all used Koni to enhance their specialised production vehicles.

Koni shock absorbers are available as an upgrade to suit vehicles right across the Australian market.

From classics like 1970s Fords and Holdens through to late model European cars, plus many American muscle cars, Koni has a shock absorber to suit most models.

Toperformance says once a set of Koni shock absorbers is fitted to your vehicle, they will not only outperform other shock absorbers but last much, much longer.

It says it is not just the technology that goes into the construction of each Koni shock absorber that adds to the reliability and longevity, it is also the smart design.

66

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2022

All Koni twin tube shock absorbers are serviceable and most are re-bound adjustable. After long periods of service, the shock absorber can be removed, adjusted, and refitted rather than replaced.

Additionally, most Koni Sport are ‘on car’ externally adjustable. Toperformance says all of this coupled with replacement bushes means that Koni shock absorbers not only outperform the competition, but they also save time, money and waste.

Koni offers a comprehensive range of options individually designed to enhance your vehicle’s handling far beyond the original factory specification, including: • Koni Special Active (with FSD Technology) improves the handling, comfort and safety.

FSD (Frequency Selective Damping) controls large vehicle body motions and corner forces while also smoothing sharp bumps and rough roads for improved comfort.

• Koni Special and Classic are individually designed for earlier model and performance cars. These shock absorbers upgrade the

existing suspension to give modern technology handling characteristics for unique and classic vehicles.

• Koni Sport gives legendary handling and control with external rebound damping adjustment. The ability to set the rebound of your dampers with the twist of a knob gives the operator a wide variety of choices. Whether you are a track day enthusiast or just like to have more control over your ride, Koni Sport gives you the option at your fingertips.

No matter your type of vehicle or your driving style, Toperformance says Koni offers outstanding performance, durability, adjustability and the ‘lowest cost per kilometre’ shock absorber on the market.

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

PRODUCTS

FUTURE PROOFING YOUR BUSINESS Analysing the past to predict what comes next

Imagine how easy business would be if you had a crystal ball and you knew what was going to happen tomorrow, next month, or in the next decade.

Imagine if you were a workshop owner and you knew what vehicles you were going to be working on in five years’ time.

Hence, you could plan what sort of equipment you needed to be investing in today. You could decide what sort of skills the technicians you employ tomorrow needed, or even better still, what skills you need your current staff to be retrained with.

While automotive data specialist company Blue Flag can’t offer you a crystal ball, it says its

people can predict the future with a strong level of confidence. It states this is achieved by analysing data to accurately predict what the future will bring.

Blue Flag is an Australian Research and Software Development company specialising in business intelligence products and services for the Automotive Industry.

It says its diverse product and service offering empowers its clients with operational insights and market transparency to help them manage day-today operations and competitively grow market share.

“We are experts at predicting things,” said Matthew Farrell, who is the Head of Blue Flag Product and Sales Development and Co-Founder.

“Did you know, for example, that sales of the Tesla Model 3 last year outstripped all other manufacturers’ models in that vehicle segment?

“What does this mean? Well, if this trend continues – which is likely – in five to 10 years time there will be a lot more EVs coming into workshops for servicing than ICE vehicles in that vehicle category.”

Unlike figures supplied by the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI) Blue Flag’s data includes information on Tesla sales.

Businesses can access this data by purchasing a subscription to the Blue Flag portal, or by purchasing individual reports.

Blue Flag also offers an API so that data can be accessed by its clients’ internal systems and websites (see separate article in this issue of Aftermarket Magazine).

Blue Flag’s data products include vehicle identification; vehicle releases; vehicle desirability; vehicle pricing; and future market analysis (new car sales forecast) data.

For further information, visit www.blueflag.com.au

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2022

69

PRODUCTS

OPTIMUM PROTECTION

Bilstein says it offers suspension optimisation for Jeep Grand Cherokee and Commander Jeeps of all kinds are among the stars of the offroad scene. Even the rather comfortable Grand Cherokee III (WH, WK, built 2004-2011) and Commander (XK, XH, built 2005-2010) models perform impressively off-road.

What’s more, Bilstein has various options in its range to further improve the handling of both models – both on and off the road.

Workshops may wonder, however, why most of these Bilstein shock absorbers have neither a boot nor a tube to protect against dust.

After all, this important detail is found on every passenger car shock absorber and should be present on an off-road vehicle all the more – shouldn’t it?

Were the accessories simply forgotten in the end?

On these questions, Rainer Popiol, the Head of the Bilstein Academy, gives the all-clear – explaining “on both models, Chrysler engineers already decided not to use dust boots or tubes with the original shock absorbers. The problem was solved elsewhere in terms of design.”

“That’s why various Bilstein shock absorbers for Jeep Grand Cherokee and Commander are also

70

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2022

supplied without additional dust protection and can be installed as they are without hesitation,” Rainer said.

The Bilstein B6 4600 shock absorber, for example, is available as a suspension upgrade for the two Jeep models.

Bilstein says it stands for better handling for offroad and on-road, and its precise tuning reduces the uncontrolled movements of the high body typical of off-road vehicles and SUVs. At the same time, Bilstein says steering precision and suspension load capacity are increased, which ensures more vehicle control, safer handling and better traction.

The Bilstein B8 5100, in turn, is said to be the ideal shock absorber for increased ground clearance and optimum grip.

Bilstein explains that thanks to its extended design, it also fits perfectly with height-adjustment kits.

Grand Cherokee and Commander Jeeps can be raised by up to 50 millimetres.

The Bilstein monotube technology and the

patented degressive valve system of the Bilstein B8 5100 are specially designed for these requirements.

For the Grand Cherokee, the “normal” Bilstein B6 is also available, which Bilstein explains is not a dedicated off-road damper, but an improved OE replacement.

Its additional damping force reportedly ensures more traction, more precise handling, optimum road grip and increased track stability in everyday use. At the same time, body movements are reduced.

For more information, visit www.workshop.bilstein.com Photos: Copyright BILSTEIN 2022

PRODUCTS

ONE SENSOR DOES NOT FIT ALL

NTK talks Direct-Fit (OEM Specification) versus Universal (Commonise) oxygen sensors Every vehicle is unique with its engine design, capacity, coding and manufacturing period, and therefore requires specific oxygen sensors.

be very detrimental to your vehicle, as particular sensor differences are explained in the table below.

Oxygen sensors are designed with a variety of different internal ceramic elements and heaters, wiring lengths and connectors, specifically engineered and manufactured to ensure your engine operates at its optimum fuel efficiency, while at the same time producing as few emissions as possible.

NTK has an extensive Australian and New Zealand range of oxygen sensors that are manufactured ‘Fit for Purpose.’

Installing a universal or generic oxygen sensor can

Each oxygen sensor has its own unique characteristics specific to its application. One generic oxygen sensor that may appear to be the same cannot be used to replace a range of these specific oxygen sensors.

CERAMIC ELEMENT Differences

Potential Problems

Result

Element Plating

Voltage values, response times and frequency can vary

ECU rejects sensor, increased fuel usage and emissions, premature catalytic convertor failure

Element Anti-Poisoning Prevention

Lifetime and response time can be affected

ECU rejects sensor, premature sensor failure

Differences

Potential Problems

Result

Voltage Level

Heater may never reach operating temperature, or too much voltage may be supplied

ECU rejects sensor, premature heater and element failure due to excessive voltage

Light-Off Time

Sensor may light-off too quickly, or take too long to reach operating temperature

ECU rejects sensor, increased fuel usage and emissions

Heater Element Design

Heat could be concentrated at the element tip, or distributed evenly

ECU rejects sensor, delayed closed-loop mode

Duty Cycle

High voltage heaters require a duty cycle to ensure the heater is not energised all the time.

ECU rejects sensor, premature heater and element failure due to excessive voltage

HEATER

Please note: NTK sensors vary in heater resistances: 2 – 13.3Ω

There are many key elements that cannot be seen from visual inspection, and NTK warns that the usage of a generic oxygen sensor will result in a compromise of fuel efficiency, exhaust emissions and engine performance.

“There are many reasons why you should choose NTK Oxygen Sensors,” NTK Group Product Manager, James Filshie, said.

“There are more than 750 direct fit automotive sensors available, with continual new product development. We offer superior manufacturing and quality control processes, and are the largest OE supplier of oxygen sensors globally.

“Our products are manufactured with state-ofthe-art techniques and NTK’s dedication to quality ensures outstanding reliability across a range of products that are vehicle specific, direct fit.”

NTK explains it is the world’s largest oxygen sensor manufacturer, which now offers more than 1,000 part numbers which are vehicle specific, direct fit.

“All NTK Aftermarket Oxygen Sensors are designed to match or exceed original equipment specifications, so next time you need to replace an oxygen sensor, choose NTK,” James said.

For more information, visit www.ngkspark.com

HSP ROLL R COVER SERIES 3 LOAD BAR RELEASED This is the first of many modular products from HSP made to fit the Series 3 Track Rail System The HSP Load Bar to suit Roll R Covers is a purpose-built full metal frame roll top rack that was created specifically to fit the HSP Roll R Cover Series 3.

While it is the first modular product designed for the Series 3 Track Rail System, there are many more to come.

tested and have a load-carrying capacity of 80kg.

While HSP offers many options of roll tops, hard lids, and tub accessories, it says it also wanted to ensure the load bar would be compatible with other brands’ accessories.

HSP says it is dedicated to ensuring its products can adapt to the 4x4 accessory market today and for years to come.

To this end, the load bar was designed with a common channel that makes it easy to integrate accessories from a variety of roll top roof manufacturers, including Thule, Rhino-Rack, Yakima, and many more.

HSP explains that it has three ute tub rack kits available with different cross bar lengths to ensure a perfect fit for every vehicle.

The load bar has been designed to perfectly suit the HSP Roll R Cover, so installation is quite simple.

For more information on the HSP Roll R Cover Series 3 Load Bar and HSP’s many other products, contact info@hsputelids.com

The company decided against using a plastic bottom for this load bar and opted instead for a full metal frame to give the load bar a very strong and sturdy foundation.

You only need to slide the assembled roll top cross bar rack into the HSP Roll R Cover T channel, and you will be ready to go.

The company is also hiring, so anyone interested in working with or for the HSP family is encouraged to reach out through that same email address.

The product-specific design perfectly complements the Roll R Cover, says HSP.

For more from HSP, visit www.hsputelids.com

The heavy-duty cross bars have been thoroughly

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2022

73

PRODUCTS

WORKSHOP EQUIPMENT PROLEC EXPANDS HYDRAULIC MCASE FUSE RANGE From Karmot Prolec’s fuse range has expanded further to include the new MCASE+ Slotted fuse from Littelfuse USA

The MCASE+ Slotted fuse is a time delayed fuse designed to withstand inrush currents within a miniaturised footprint for optimal performance in minimal space.

While the original Unslotted MCASE+ cartridge style fuse can protect up to 40A with female terminals for 2.8mm male terminals, the MCASE+ Slotted fuse is rated up to 60A and can mate with 6.3mm male terminals or even mount performance in minimal space directly onto a busbar.

Further product models now include the MCASE+ Slotted High Temperature (HT) fuse which have a lower voltage drop and are designed to operate with a lower temperature rise in harsher environmental applications.

Karmot says that for 36 years, it has been at the forefront of the Hydraulic Workshop Equipment industry, offering leading insight into the products most essential to running a successful, efficient and safe workshop.

It says this dedication to the industry over the last three and a half decades has meant the Karmot brand has become synonymous with the highest quality of products.

Karmot says that working closely with the Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association, Australian Standards and now the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator allows it to keep a finger on the pulse of the industry, and enact improvements for all of the users of the equipment available for sale.

Karmot is headed by David Hutchins, a founding member of the Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association who brings to the industry a wealth of knowledge and guidance from his 50-plus years of experience.

David’s dedication has taken him across the globe to choose the right products to offer the Australian market, ensuring that each and every single product is tested and meets stringent and exacting Standards and quality.

Karmot’s portfolio of brands includes: • Liftech; • Ritch; • Masada; • Autopstenhoj; and • Sherpa.

It is currently looking for a major distributing partner for the Sherpa Plate Brake and Suspension Tester.

The SPBT4000 Sherpa 6 Plate brake and suspension test lane measures four wheel braking forces left and right as well as front to back realistically as on the road.

Key features include: • Slip plate test allowing a fast check of toe in and toe out.

• Weight cells showing total weight with four wheel distribution.

• Shock absorber test which evaluates shock absorber condition.

• Provides a full test report including a picture of the vehicle for test authentication.

• Pedal force reader supplied for NSW registration purposes.

• Low profile.

• Low running costs.

• European NMI Standards approved.

• Made in Germany.

For more information, visit www.karmot.com

INTEREQUIP AC SOLUTIONS Prolec says the MCASE+ Slotted fuse has other standard features to assist the installer or consumer when fitting or replacing.

The top face of the fuse has a double-sided OCR amperage stamp, the fuse body is colour coded to the industry standard amperage codes and the side panel of the fuse is clear so that the user can visually inspect the fuse element.

An MCASE fuse puller accessory is also available to make inserting or extracting fuses from the fuse box “effortless.”

The MCASE+ Slotted fuse is available in a range of packaging sizes and styles including bulk zip lock poly bags, spare part retail blisters, emergency assortment retail blisters and assortment trade kits.

For more information, call 03 9521 6133 or visit www.prolecproducts.com.au 74

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2022

Air conditioning services can be a necessary job for every workshop Interequip has been importing Air Conditioning machines since 2006, supplying fully automatic AC refrigerant R1234yf gas recharge, recycle, recover machines.

Interequip says these machines are easy to use, reliable, and come with the “best affordable price.”

The Zell AC1800 comes with a seven-inch touch screen, built-in printer and a large 22.5 litre tank for cars.

The AC1800F comes with a ten-inch touch screen and a sight glass for built in flushing function.

The Zell brand AC machine has been used by dealerships and many independent workshops Australia wide.

Interequip also supplies the upper model

AutoCool A1000 unit with touch screen LCD display and the A2000, which has a monitor style display.

For truck and bus applications, Interequip supplies the Ecotechnics Bus-Pro model or the ZELL Heavy Duty series.

For more information, please contact Interequip on 18000 EQUIP or visit www.interequip.com.au

MEMBER FEATURE

THRIVING IN THE WINDS OF CHANGE ADRAD has been manufacturing radiators in Australia since 1985 In the 35 plus years that have passed since they first opened their doors, the team at ADRAD have successfully navigated the winds of change on numerous occasions.

Today, ADRAD is still a proudly Australian owned family company specialising in the manufacture, importation and distribution of quality radiators, automotive air-conditioning parts, other heat exchange products, plus a growing range of automotive service and replacement parts.

“Our range of radiators available in copper, brass, aluminium and steel is the most extensive in Australia and New Zealand,” ADRAD Business Development Manager for Aluminium Performance Products, Darren Duncan, said.

“The quality of our range and our commitment to the highest levels of service continues to raise the industry benchmark.

“Our products are diverse and meet the needs of automobiles, light trucks and commercial vehicles, heavy on-highway vehicles and heavy off-highway vehicles; but my passion lies in our customised aluminium products for racing and performance vehicles.”

In May this year, Darren will celebrate 20 years of working in the radiator industry, and 38 years in the automotive industry.

“I’ve seen the industry evolve significantly during that time. Still, the one constant has been the value of maintaining a range of quality products that match the shifting range of popular applications,” he said.

When the ADRAD leadership team needed someone with experience to develop their range of aluminium performance products, Darren took the opportunity.

“It quickly became a passion of mine, and to this day, I still get a buzz when I work with customers to develop a bespoke heat transfer solution,” Darren states.

During his time managing ADRAD’s aluminium performance division, Darren has witnessed massive change and innovation.

ADRAD’s founder, Gary Washington, and the company’s talented manufacturing team have invested in significant upgrades to enhance their design and manufacturing capabilities.

“In the last five years, we’ve seen the evolution of 76

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2022

aluminium radiator configurations advance at an ever-increasing rate,” Darren explained.

The significant increases in engine performance have been the driving force behind this new era of innovation in the range of aluminium products for racing and performance vehicles.

“Five or six years ago, a streetcar with 500 horsepower under the hood was considered a beast,” Darren described.

“But today, more and more cars are pushing out in excess of 1000 ponies at the rear wheels, and more horsepower means more heat, and this has driven innovation across our entire range.”

It is a challenge to develop new products to help tame these high-performance thoroughbreds.

“Back in the day when all we had was the old

copper and brass radiators, the only way to keep performance engines cool was to keep adding rows of tubes which made them thicker and thicker and thicker,” Darren explained.

“But these days, there’s not much room in modern engine bays. That, along with the increasing trend towards LS and Barra engine swaps, means that the space between the engine and the radiator support panel is at a premium and as a result, building thicker radiators is no longer an option in most applications.”

Armed with these insights, ADRAD’s design team focused on innovating within the core and experimenting with fin profiling and design.

From the outside, any radiator core looks pretty simple; it just consists of water tubes and cooling fins. But in reality, selecting the right combination

MEMBER FEATURE set-up our customer is planning to run so we can ensure there’s adequate airflow to the radiator.”

A large part of Darren’s job is to help educate customers and debunk the widespread belief that simply installing a larger radiator will increase thermal efficiency.

He goes to great lengths to ensure they understand how all the components in their cooling system must work together to deliver the thermal exchange required to match their specific performance application.

“In most cases, if we simply installed a larger capacity radiator without making any other changes, the coolant flow inside the radiator slows significantly, resulting in what we call laminar flow,” Darren said.

Laminar flow becomes evident when the coolant makes a smooth passage through the radiator.

While it sounds ideal, a radiator experiencing laminar flow has reduced thermal exchange efficiency.

of these two components is a highly specialised and technical process.

“We’ve got a number of different tube sizes and profiles available,” Darren explained.

“We can build a radiator using tube diameters ranging from 16 millimetres to 73 millimetres.

Then, depending on the application, we can marry these with low profile fin height.”

ADRAD has invested heavily in fin technology. Its unique, low-profile design allows them to increase the total number of tubes in the radiator and increase the rows of fins, the combination of which increases thermal efficiency.

Helping customers select the right combination of tube diameter and fin profile is where ADRAD’s technical knowledge really adds value and proves its expertise.

“We have a series of questions that we ask all customers before we start the design process,” Darren said.

“It’s critical to understand what set up the vehicle is running and how it will be used before we even start engaging with our design team.”

Obviously, a car that will be towing for long distances will require a very different radiator configuration to a drift car, just like a track car’s radiator will run very different specifications to a dedicated burnout car.

“We ask questions like what water pump are they are running, because if we’re going to be increasing the capacity of the radiator, it’s critical that we match the water flow rate,” Darren explained.

“In addition, we also need to confirm what the fan

“To ensure optimal thermal exchange, we want the water to be churning and tubulating as it flows through the radiator tubes,” Darren explained.

“This maximises the contact of the water to the inside wall of the water tube, in turn, dissipating the heat to the tube, then through to the fin and out to the atmosphere.

“That’s why it’s important to match the right radiator configuration with the right water speed or tube velocity.”

Many of ADRAD’s aluminium performance radiators also feature a hemmed fin design.

During the fin manufacturing process at their facility in South Australia, the fin material is folded back over onto itself to increase rigidity and reduce the potential for damage.

This adds additional strength and helps keep the fin profile intact, helping to maintain optimal performance over the life of the radiator.

In the more recent past, and possibly as a side effect of the COVID-19 pandemic, Darren has observed that the market has moved away from cheaper, imported products, particularly in the performance market.

“The cost of building a modified engine can cost from a few thousand dollars to several tens of thousands and many consider a quality radiator, that has been designed and manufactured to suit their specific requirements, as an insurance policy that will protect their investment,” Darren said.

“ADRAD is committed to innovation, customer education and to providing excellence in service and delivery of product through our extensive network of warehouses throughout Australia and New Zealand and that’s what sets us apart from the competition,” he added.

To find out more about ADRAD, visit www.adrad.com.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2022

77

LUBRICANTS, FLUIDS & CHEMICALS

REPCO AUTO PARTS – DRIVING AUTOMOTIVE OILS

The Repco engine oil range covers the needs of most of the Australian car parc With more than 300 locations nationally, Repco Auto Parts explains that it remains number one in the Australian automotive aftermarket.

Repco says it is proud to offer a market leading range and more than 100 years of experience providing exceptional service to automotive specialists, generalists, and enthusiasts.

Repco Merchandise Manager – Oils and Lubricants, Tania Karinja, says it’s the wide range from leading brands that keeps specialists coming back.

“As a GPC business, it’s important to align ourselves with the leading brands that our customers know, trust and can rely on,” Tania said.

MEGUIAR’S HOT SHINE TYRE SHINE A lot of premium workshops return their customer’s cars freshly washed

Providing a complimentary car wash often generates greater gratitude and appreciation than shaving hundreds of dollars of profit off a service/ repair bill.

Meguiar’s says that adding a tyre dressing is an absolute must as it is that finishing touch that takes any car wash from pretty good to pretty perfect.

It says what customers don’t appreciate is when you use a cheap, nasty tyre dressing that flings all up the side of their car – especially when it starts attracting unsightly dirt and road grime.

Meguiar’s says its Hot Shine Tyre Shine is super quick and super easy to apply thanks to its trigger action spray applicator.

It reportedly gives tyres a deep, black wet look, and thanks to its higher solids content, it lasts for weeks, instead of days – even after rain and regular washing.

Meguiar’s says it doesn’t sling off and end up all over the paint, explaining that it has highly waterresistant polymers combined with patented antiozonant technology to keep your tyres looking blacker longer, while preventing cracking, browning and premature ageing.

As such, Meguiar’s Hot Shine Tyre Shine not only keeps tyres looking all shiny and nice, but it also keeps them young and resilient.

The two-way adjustable trigger nozzle (narrow spray and wide spray) makes a potentially messy job so much neater and cleaner and also gives you the necessary control to dial in the spray pattern to suit short-sided, low-profile tyres, all the way up to tall SUV and offroad monsters.

Also, by varying the amount of product applied, you can vary the level of gloss. And if you happen to add too much product, Meguiar’s says that is no problem as any excess is easily buffed off with a cloth.

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

MOREY OIL HUB OIL LUBRICANT Within the commercial trucking industry there are many vehicles that run oil filled hubs “We’ve proudly partnered with Penrite and Castrol to lead our Oils and Lubricants category; not only are they iconic Australian brands, they offer a tried and tested product range with solutions to protect all moving parts in a vehicle.

“More mechanics and automotive specialists are choosing Repco branded engine oils and specialty fluids to keep engines running smoothly.

“Repco engine, transmission and gear oils are made in Australia from the highest quality oils and additives providing quality assurance and extra value at a competitive price point.”

Available in 1L, 5L, 20L and 205L in synthetic, semi-synthetic, mineral and diesel options, the Repco engine oil range covers the needs of most of the Australian car parc. Each type of oil is available in a range of viscosities, with all options meeting Australian OE specifications.

For more information about Repco Auto Parts, Repco branded products or the wider range of automotive specialist and mechanical brands for your workshop, speak with your local Repco team.

Visit www.repco.com.au for your nearest branch.

78

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2022

Morey Oil says the main reason people like oil bath hubs over grease hubs is the oil bath hubs have a less involved maintenance schedule than greaseable hubs which require daily maintenance.

Steering axles and oil filled hubs hold minimal amounts of oil, and left untreated this oil can tend to burn quickly.

Standard oil has more of a chance of experiencing a higher temperature, resulting in burning of the oil. If this happens you will then have the risk of hardening your seals.

Once your oil is burnt you now have a less effective oil, and an underperforming oil is not going to lubricate to the specifications it should and can cause considerable damage to your bearings.

Once your oil is burnt, it starts to harden your seals and these seals will start to crack and leak.

Leaking seals are a common cause to damaged bearings and damaged axles as there is not enough oil in the system to lubricate, leaving you with costly repairs.

Morey Oil says that when choosing an oil filled hub, you should use Morey’s Hub Oil Lubricant because you should go with a brand you can trust.

It states Morey Oil have put together the perfect

blend of specialty oils and oil conditioners designed to improve the life of the Oil Filled Hubs.

It explains that Morey’s Hub Oil Lubricant has been specifically designed to assist in better lubrication, lower oil temperature, reduce seal leaks, reduce oil loss, help to rejuvenate older seals, extend wear life, keep new seals newer for a longer period of time, and also prolong your bearing life.

Morey’s Hub Oil Lubricant can also be used in steering axles and boat trailer oil filled hubs.

The Morey Oil website carries information about Morey’s Hub Oil Lubricant and other lubrication products you may need, or you can contact Morey Oil’s Brisbane Head Office for information or the details of your nearest re-seller.

For more information, visit www.moreyoil.com.au or free call 1800 637 173.

LUBRICANTS, FLUIDS & CHEMICALS

CHANGE TRANSMISSION OIL WITH CONFIDENCE Transmissions, including the transmission oil, are subject to wear and tear In order to optimise service life and performance, ZF Aftermarket recommends regular checks, and where necessary, regular transmission oil changes too.

The cycles for transmission oil changes depend on the design of the transmission itself, and its configuration within the vehicle.

For example, in operating conditions with high temperatures and loads, or when a vehicle’s usage is unknown, ZF recommends changing the transmission oil at shorter intervals. In case of doubt, the service instructions of the vehicle manufacturer must be observed.

ZF transmissions are generally designed for an average vehicle service life, as is the transmission oil.

ZF says its automatic transmissions are filled maintenance-free with specially developed partially synthetic ATF oils; however, due to the many factors that can influence the service life of transmissions in individual operation, ZF recommends – when using ZF LifeguardFluid – an oil change after 150,000 kilometres (at the latest) for its transmissions.

ZF LifeguardFluid If a transmission oil change is required, ZF recommends workshops use ZFLifeguardFluid oil and oil change kits.

As ZF manufactures both transmissions and transmission oils, it says it understands how the two work together and customises oils specifically to the transmission’s requirements.

ZF LifeguardFluid is a premium grade lubricant that headlines the ZF Aftermarket range of transmission oils.

ZF LifeguardFluid has been developed to deliver maximum transmission performance so that passengers enjoy smoother gearshifts and the vehicle enjoys optimised fuel economy and reduced wear on components, thus decreasing maintenance and operating costs.

which delivers excellent lubrication and friction properties even under the most extreme of operating conditions.

ZF Aftermarket explains that it additionally markets a range of premium quality oils suited to the broad spectrum of vehicles on our roads.

ZF LifeguardFluid oils are available for four, five, six, seven, eight and nine speed applications in a variety of sizes, depending on the application.

These specialised ZF Aftermarket transmission lubricants contain a matched combination of high-quality base oils and special additives,

For more information, visit www.zf.com/lubricants or call 1800 ZF SALES (1800 93 72537).

MANAGING YOUR WORKSHOP MORE EFFICIENTLY With Valvoline Professional Multi-Vehicle 5W-30 Engine Oil A major burden of workshops is requiring so many different engine oils at any one time. Valvoline recently introduced the Valvoline Professional Multi-Vehicle 5W-30 engine oil which is exclusive to workshops.

The new engine oil is intended to rationalise workshop engine oil requirements and is designed to service the fastest growing segment in the Australian automotive marketplace. The Multi-Vehicle engine oil comes in 20L, 60L and 208L drums.

Catering to over 45 percent of Australian vehicles sold since 2009 Many cars on the Australian car park are late model Japanese and Korean cars. According to V Facts, last year these brands accounted for 70 percent of the top 10 brands sold and over 45 percent of all new car sales in Australia – that is over 4.5 million petrol and diesel vehicles sold over the past 10+ years.

Many of these vehicles can now be serviced with the Valvoline Professional Multi-Vehicle 5W-30 engine oil. The Multi-Vehicle engine oil will suit Petrol vehicles that specify SAE 5W-30 requiring API SN PLUS, SN, SM or earlier.

In addition, Valvoline Professional Multi-Vehicle

5W-30 engine oil contains Mid SAP’s technology.

This means it is ideal for use in various Japanese and Korean diesel vehicles fitted with DPFs. Many of these vehicles can now be serviced with the Valvoline Professional Multi-Vehicle 5W-30 engine oil where the vehicle specifies SAE 5W-30 requiring ACEA C2 or ACEA C3.

Protects against LSPI and improves fuel economy Valvoline Professional Multi-Vehicle 5W-30 engine oil meets the API SN PLUS specification which protects against Low Speed Pre-Ignition (LSPI).

LSPI is an abnormal, uncontrolled combustion event that can occur in modern Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) and Turbo Gasoline Direct Injection (TGDI) engines. In some cases, this can result in catastrophic engine failure.

Research suggests that LSPI most commonly occurs during rapid acceleration and in GDI and TGDI engines operating in low speed and high load driving conditions.

Another benefit of the Valvoline Professional Multi-Vehicle 5W-30 engine oil is that it can improve fuel economy up to 1.5 percent in certain vehicles. It also protects engines from wear by up to 72 percent when compared to standard engine oils.

Helping to improve your workshop Valvoline says that not only does the Valvoline Professional Multi-Vehicle 5W-30 engine oil service the fastest growing segment in the Australian automotive marketplace, it can rationalise up to five engine oils from the Valvoline range.

This means workshops could save time in choosing which oil to use and improve workshop efficiencies by potentially holding less stock. The one engine oil could mean less oil storage space on the workshop floor, leading to greater efficiency.

For more information on the Valvoline Full Synthetic Professional Multi-Vehicle 5W-30 engine oil, speak with your local Valvoline representative or contact Customer Service on 1800 458 237.

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2022

79

LUBRICANTS, FLUIDS & CHEMICALS

GET AN OCTANE BOOST

X-1R Engine Oil Treatment comes with a free Octane Booster Burg Design – the exclusive Australian distributors of X-1R products – says that X-1R Performance Products have been developed, proven and used daily by the NASA Space Technology team.

Over 21 years ago, NASA faced a very serious situation and closure when the traction bearings in the Shuttle Crawler broke down.

Soon after, Burg Design explains the engineers and industrial chemists at NASA and the X-1R Corporation got together to see if they could develop a unique lubricating grease that could help resolve this major problem, and the rest is history – soon after NASA and the X-1R Corporation joined forces in the development of what Burg Design calls “the most technological and proven range of lubricants in the world.”

Burg Design says the program isn’t just useful when it comes to space exploration, with major vehicle makers such as Honda, Toyota, Nissan, Hyundai and Proton using X-1R additives in engines and transmissions.

WORLD-CLASS LUBRICANTS CoolDrive’s Petronas range includes top quality lubricants for Australian motorists

CoolDrive Auto Parts says it is dedicated to stocking only top-of-the-line OEM approved lubricants, with the PETRONAS range leading the way.

PETRONAS has been associated with highperformance Formula 1 competition for many years due to its partnership with the MercedesAMG PETRONAS F1 team that has achieved eight Constructor’s and seven Driver’s Championships since 2014.

CoolDrive Auto Parts says PETRONAS combines the lessons learned at the height of competition with research and development carried out at its state-of-the-art facility in Italy to provide the best quality products for its consumers.

CoolDrive has been consistently expanding its PETRONAS range since 2018, offering worldclass lubricants in its Syntium, Tutela, and Urania product lines.

CoolDrive’s PETRONAS stock is headlined by the PETRONAS Syntium with °CoolTech range, which is designed to reduce heat and maintain optimum performance, particularly in the stop-start traffic commonly encountered in cities.

PETRONAS Syntium with °CoolTech has unique strong oil chains that absorb and divert excess heat away from critical engine parts in order to protect them from damage.

This lubricant offers multiple benefits, most critically preventing engine failure by protecting

components from wear and tear caused by heat.

It also delays the thickening of oil by resisting oxidation, and it reduces harmful deposit buildups to ensure peak engine performance.

The PETRONAS Tutela range of automatic transmission fluids is streamlined in order to reduce the inventory that workshops are required to carry.

This range features Multi ATF 700, which PETRONAS describes as a state-of-the-art, ultra-high quality, fully synthetic, low viscosity automatic transmission fluid ideal for many modern European, Asian, and US vehicles.

In addition to being approved for various power steering systems, Multi ATF 500 is backward compatible with many transmissions with older specifications. Other PETRONAS products are targeted toward manual transmissions, CVTs, dualclutch transmissions, axles, and general gear oils.

The PETRONAS Urania line is focused on heavyduty applications with ViscGuard technology that protects against engine build-ups like ash, soot, varnish, and particle deposits.

For further information, visit www.cooldrive.com.au

NULON LAUNCHES ALL NEW GREASE RANGE It says X-1R products are well known around the world as “the most tested and proven range of additives money can buy.”

To prove a point of how effective X-1R really is, Burg Design says it has now released a new trial pack of the famous Engine Treatment that includes a free bottle of Octane Booster.

It says when these two products are added to the engine oil and the petrol fuel tank you can not only hear the difference, but you can also actually feel the difference too with more power, reduced fuel consumption and a much quieter and smoother running engine.

X-1R Products are on display at the Smithsonian Institute Hall of Fame Washington, DC, USA as well as the Kennedy Space Centre.

For more information, contact Burg Design on 03 9555 9277 or sales@burgdesign.com.au 80

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2022

10 new premium performance grease products launched in the automotive retail network

Nulon Products Australia has significantly expanded on its successful and long-standing P.T.F.E grease range with the introduction of ten new compound and aerosol grease products covering a wide range of industry applications.

“The new grease offer from Nulon has been developed with the end user in mind and presents as an easy-to-understand solution for a wide range of applications across varied consumer and industry segments,” Nulon Products Marketing Manager, Tom Murray, said.

“In a product category that is often confusing, our consumer-friendly approach is designed to cut through the industry jargon and make the products easy to understand.

“We have done this by aligning product and label

messaging to the application and in addition, added visual aids and colour coding.”

The new greases are formulated from global, market-leading technology and will be manufactured locally with locally sourced materials.

“We’re proud to be able to continue to manufacture our products in Australia. It’s a very important part of our heritage.” Tom said.

The new grease range includes 10 new grease products in cartridge, tub and aerosol packaging for automotive, construction, marine, industrial, agricultural and general/multi-purpose uses.

For more information, please visit www.nulon.com.au/grease

LUBRICANTS, FLUIDS & CHEMICALS

HIGH QUALITY GREASES From Eiffel Lubricants

Eiffel Lubricants says it is proud to offer a range of high-quality greases featuring leading technology which help protect your equipment, extend relubricant intervals and help enable problem free operation.

It says its greases are based on carefully selected mineral and scientifically engineered synthetic base fluids, in combination with “the best thickener technology and synergistic additive system.”

Eiffel Lubricants explains that its grease products are specifically designed to meet a wide variety of operating conditions in both industrial and mobile equipment, including very high and low temperatures, water contamination and shock loads.

Lithium Complex EP greases Eiffel Lubricant’s performance Lithium Complex EP Greases – such as the Eiffel Xtreme Protect Grease EP series – are available in NLGI grades ranging from 00 to 3 with base oil viscosity of ISO VG 220.

They are suitable for most types of Automotive and Industrial applications, including where high temperatures, heavy loads and extreme unit pressures are present.

These greases are suitable for operating temperatures ranging from -20°C to 140°C, while EP 00 and 0 greases are suitable for operating temperatures ranging from -25°C to 130°C.

Lithium Soap EP and MP Greases The Eiffel Protect Grease MP2 and Eiffel Protect Grease MP3 Series are available in NLGI grades 2 and 3, which are suitable for general purpose automotive applications at moderate temperatures and loads.

The suitable operating temperature range is from -20°C to 120°C. It doesn’t contain lead or any other heavy metals which are considered harmful to human health and the environment.

They are suitable for passenger car and light truck applications, including for all kinds of bearings and joints where temperature and loading conditions are normal. In applications where heavy or shock loading is involved, Eiffel Lubricants says extreme pressure greases should be used.

Lithium EP Moly Greases Eiffel Protect Moly Grease EP series products are high performance greases, formulated with lithium-based thickeners fortified with Molybdenum Disulfide (MoS2) solid lubrication,

high quality base oils and an extreme pressure additive system to provide excellent protection against wear, rusting and water washout.

They are available in NLGI grades ranging from 00 to 3 with base oil viscosity of ISO VG 460 and 320.

They are suitable for most types of Automotive and Industrial applications, including heavy-duty Marine applications where high temperatures, heavy shock loads and extreme unit pressures are present.

Moly Grease EP 1, 2, and 3 greases are suitable for operating temperatures ranging from -20°C to 130°C, while Moly Grease EP 00 and 0 greases are suitable for operating temperatures ranging from -25°C to 120°C. For more information, visit www.eiffellubricants.com.au

PERFECT FOR HIGH-STRESS SITUATIONS Mobil 1 5W-50 is said to be ‘number one’ for high-stress applications Over the last 20-plus years, the automotive industry trend towards ever thinner engine oils has continued, with the OEMs typically opting for viscosities like 5W-40 and 5W-30 – both of which are now commonplace.

Mobil 1 always advises using the OEM specification, however, in older cars that have racked a tonne of miles (and have experienced noticeable engine wear), it says it has been shown they can benefit from using a thicker oil like Mobil 1 5W-50 FS X2.

A 5W-50 is also said to be ideal for classic and collector cars, along with motorsport and punishing driving conditions such as heavy towing.

Mobil 1 5W-50 is safe for use in engines operated under brutal conditions and high operating temperatures.

turbocharged applications where high-boost levels and extreme temperatures are maintained for extended periods of time.

Mobil 1 explains that as with all of its lubricants, this advanced full synthetic motor oil delivers excellent all-round protection and will keep your engine running like new – even during service intervals as long as 15,000km.

Mobil 1 5W-50’s proprietary blend of ultra-high performance synthetic base stocks is said to not only prevent deposits and sludge build-up for long and clean engine life, but also delivers an exceptionally broad viscosity range – and will maintain that range for the entirety of a typical service interval.

Even under sustained temperatures of up to 235 degrees Celsius, it reportedly does not suffer from oxidation or breaking down.

Mobil 1 says this enables Mobil 1 5W-50 FS X2 to deliver unrivalled protection at the extremes of low and high temperatures, as well as under high load, high stress conditions, while simultaneously minimising frictional losses for maximum fuel efficiency and maximum horsepower.

Mobil 1 says this makes it ideal for use in competition race engines, along with high-output,

It states it is ideal for use in high-performance turbo-charged and supercharged petrol engines,

along with certain diesel multi-valve fuel injected engines as found in passenger cars, SUVs, light vans and trucks.

For Mobil 1 product details, along with distributor and stockist info, call MotorActive on 1800 350 622 or visit www.m1oils.com.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2022

83

LUBRICANTS, FLUIDS & CHEMICALS

PENRITE SPECIALTY FLUIDS No matter what fluid or lubricant, Penrite says it has it covered Australian owned and operated lubricant specialist, Penrite Oil, is well known for its range of engine oils but it also manufactures a full range of specialty lubricants for Automatic Transmissions, Manual Gearboxes, Transfer Cases, Differentials and Power Steering, as well as Brake and Suspension fluids.

Automatic Transmission Fluids Penrite manufactures 10 different types of automatic transmission fluids covering conventional step type automatic transmissions, CVTs (Continuously Variable Transmissions) and DCTs (Dual Clutch Transmissions).

Products such as Penrite ATF BMV can be used for many of the very latest transmission types including where Ford Mercon ULV is specified in vehicles such as Ranger/Everest and Mustang 10 speed transmissions.

It can also be used in GM vehicles where Dexron ULV is required, in Mercedes Benz vehicles where MB 236.17 is specified as well as in vehicles with ZF six, eight and nine speed transmissions.

Gear Oils Penrite produces a range of mineral, semi and full synthetic gear oils for manual gearboxes, transfer cases and differentials.

Penrite Premium Mineral Gear Oils are API GL-5 grade oils that feature the correct dosage of limited slip differential additive, making them suitable for both Hypoid and LSD differentials, reducing the amount of inventory needed by the trade.

Another key component of the Penrite Gear Oils range is that they are made using non-aggressive extreme pressure additives, making them safe to use in transmissions that have yellow or white metals in them.

Power Steering and Suspension Fluids Penrite has Power Steering and Suspension Fluids available to suit most makes and models.

Penrite Power Steering Fluid is a premium multipurpose power steering fluid designed for use in power steering units that specify conventional type automatic transmission fluids (ATFs) ie.

DEXRON II and III fluids. It also meets Ford M2C934-C/D specifications for use in Ford EF-FG series Falcons and SX/SY Territories, replacing the need for a separate product.

Not just another ATF in a bottle, Penrite Power Steering Fluid contains anti-shudder additives for long and smooth service life and features “Stop Leak” technology to prevent seal failure and leaking.

Brake Fluids No matter if you drive an everyday runabout or a V8 Supercar, Penrite says it has a Brake Fluid suitable for you.

Penrite DOT 5.1 Fluid brake fluid is designed for use in a wide range of brake and clutch applications. Penrite says it is perfect for use in vehicles with ABS, AEB and ESP systems.

Penrite states it has a very high boiling point for exceptional stopping power as well as a high wet boiling point ensuring retention of stopping power over the life of the fluid.

No matter what fluid you need, Penrite says it has most fluids to suit most vehicles, made right here in Australia by an Australian company, by Australian people.

To find out more about Penrite and its Australian Made products, visit www.penriteoil.com.au

BAD FUEL KILLS ENGINES

Trico Products Australia says Sta-bil is the solution for fuel degradation and oxidation Any fuel, be it petrol, diesel, or heating fuel, is made up of many different organic compounds.

These organic compounds are constantly changing over time. They can react with oxygen and other elements in the environment and form new molecules that build up to form gummy residues or varnish-like films that can clog up passages in fuel lines, carburetors, and injectors.

Stored fuel can begin to break down in as little as three months.

One way to avoid fuel breaking down is to completely drain the fuel tank and fuel lines.

However, it is virtually impossible to get every drop of fuel out of the system by simply draining.

Draining the fuel also exposes the metal in the tank and fuel system to air and moisture, which could result in rust and corrosion forming, gaskets drying out and cracking, and fuel leaks.

Drained fuel is a fire and safety hazard, and properly disposing of this fuel is difficult. For all these reasons, Trico Products Australia says draining is not the solution.

84

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2022

Instead, it presents Sta-Bil – a blend of scientific additives that act together to prevent fuel from undergoing degradation and oxidation during prolonged storage.

Trico Products Australia explains that Sta-Bil acts as a protective wrapper around fuel molecules so they cannot combine with oxygen or other molecules to form new “bad actor” molecules.

The “sweetened” fuel will perform its job just like it’s brand new.

The average fuel is reportedly extended from three months oxidation life to 15 months with Sta-Bil. According to Trico Products Australia, Sta-Bil is four to nine times more effective than any other products claiming to extend fuel life according to accepted standard fuel stability tests IASTM D5251.

Trico Products Australia says any engine stored for 90 days or more needs Sta-Bil, including all twocycle or four-cycle engines used in lawnmowers, motorcycles, chain saws, recreation vehicles, garden tillers and so on.

To use, just add Sta-Bil to the fuel, agitate the fuel tank if possible, and then start and run the engine for five minutes or more. After that, simply shut off the engine and store the equipment away.

Sta-bil is available in three handy sizes - 118ml (treats 38 litres), 236ml (treats 76 litres) and 473ml (treats 150 litres).

Sta-Bil is distributed exclusively by Trico Products Australia.

For more information and stockists, visit www.sta-bil.com.au or call 03 9271 3288.

LUBRICANTS, FLUIDS & CHEMICALS

PROVEN PERFORMANCE IN DIESEL ENGINE PROTECTION Pertamina says its Meditran range provides benefits for engine acceleration and superior protection From high temperatures and oxidation to wear and corrosion, Pertamina says the Meditran range of premium heavy-duty diesel engine oils allow long term engine durability, protection and cleanliness to ensure peak engine performance.

The range of oils for diesel engines include Meditran Le Ultimate, Meditran SX Ultra GLE, and Meditran SX Plus.

Available nationwide, these oils are designed to help diesel engine owners get the most out of their vehicles with long-term protection characteristics.

The Meditran range of oils reportedly come with a multitude of performance benefits such as excellent oxidation and thermal stability, outstanding sludge build-up prevention and longer drain intervals which in the long term reduce industrial waste.

The range also provides stable multigrade viscosity that provides optimum engine protection during start-up and high-temperature operation.

Importantly for diesel engines, Pertamina Lubricants Diesel Engine oils are said to provide optimum protection for control of catalyst

poisoning and particulate filter blocking to increase after-treatment system durability.

Pertamina says the products were formulated to provide the best protection against the build-up of wear metals as well as deposit and soot control.

Meditran LE Ultimate, Meditran SX Ultra GLE and Meditran SX Plus are formulated for use in heavyduty diesel applications such as buses, trucks, mining equipment, power generation equipment and more.

Pertamina Meditran LE Ultimate SAE 15W-40 API CK-4 meets or exceeds the performance standards of API CK-4/SN, ACEA E9, Cummins CES 20086, Volvo VDS-4.5, MB-Sheet 228.31, Renault RLD-4, MACK EOS 4.5, Caterpillar ECF-3 and more.

Meditran SX Ultra GLE SAE 15W-40 API CJ-4 has the approvals of API CJ-4, Cummins 20081, Volvo VDS-4, MB 228.31, Renault RLD-3 and Mack EO-O. It meets or exceeds the performance standards of API SN, ACEA E9, Caterpillar ECF-3 Detroit 93K218, Deutz DQC III-10LA, MTU Category 2.1 and MAN 3575.

Pertamina Meditran SX Plus SAE 15W-40 API CI-4 approvals are API CI-4, MTU Category 2, MB 228.3, Volvo VDS-3, Mack OE-N, Renault Truck RLD-2. It meets or exceeds the performance standards of API SL, ACEA E7, MAN 3275, MACK EO-M Plus, Cummins 20076/77/78.

The Pertamina Meditran range of oils is available for purchase nationwide through its major distributors, including ASV Euro Car Parts.

For more information, please visit the website of Principal Distributor, Business Automotive Solutions Pty Ltd, at www.basauto.com.au Alternatively, contact info@basauto.com.au for information or business enquiries.

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2022

87

HANDTOOLS & DIAGNOSTICS

KNIPEX PLIERS WRENCH XS

Offering 100 millimetres of pure gripping strength: small, handy and versatile Tridon says the tried and tested Knipex Pliers Wrench is now also available as an XS version.

Knipex’s Pliers Wrench XS (86 04 100) is the smallest pliers wrench in the product portfolio of the German based pliers manufacturer.

With a length of only 100 millimetres, the versatile tool with a width across flats of up to 21 millimetres can tighten and loosen screws gently and much more. It has a continuous gripping capacity for all common widths, both metric and imperial.

The high lever transmission joint means that workpieces can be securely gripped, held, pressed or bent.

Thanks to its compact design and very slim head, the Pliers Wrench XS is also perfect for working in the most confined spaces.

The tool can be easily fine adjusted with one hand and has ten adjustment positions for different workpiece sizes by simply pushing.

The sturdy slip joint offers great stability and long-term resilience, while a pinch stop prevents crush injuries.

Small enough to fit in a pocket, the classically embossed and chrome-plated Pliers Wrench XS is extremely versatile: it can be used in precision engineering, plumbing applications or model making, and is also suitable as a compact onboard tool for cyclists or motorcyclists.

It is a real “everyday carry tool” that is the perfect solution for many everyday tasks.

The smallest pliers wrench is also highly suitable for delicate materials. Smooth jaws ensure absolutely gentle assembly of delicate fittings with surface finishes. This means you can work on the entire surface of a fitting without worrying about damaging the chrome.

Tridon is the exclusive distributor of Knipex in Australia.

For more information, call 1300 362 263 for your nearest distributor or visit www.tridon.com.au

SP TOOLS PREMIUM BATTERY ANALYSER Tools.com says this analyser is essential for workshops

The SP Tools Premium battery analyser (SP61065) has a built-in printing functionality, providing instant hard copy test results ensuring you have all the details of your job when needed.

Features for this workshop analyser include: • Capacity: 100-2000CCA. • Displays and prints time stamped reports: effective CCA, battery voltage, percentage of battery health and condition, charge system analysis and starter system analysis.

• Auto-saving function ensures the latest test results are automatically saved for reviewing or to store digitally via USB cable.

• Multi-function testing: accurately tests battery, alternator charge current, starter function and diode ripple • Easily adjustable date/time printing mode.

• Extremely simple interface provides quick and easy battery analysis.

88

The SP Tools Battery Analyser is available to purchase online from www.tools.com

AUTEL MAXISYS ULTRA Those behind the product says it offers “unparalleled performance for all workshop types” The MaxiSys Ultra is Autel’s most ambitious diagnostics tablet designed to maximise technician intelligence.

It features a 12.9-inch touchscreen tablet with Android 7.0 OS powered by an Octa-core processor (2.3GHz Quad and 1.7GHz Quad) and substantial 256GB built-in memory, all powering the new split-screen multi-application navigation to provide diagnostic guidance and test components to confirm repairs.

Combined with the dynamic topology module mapping, enhanced Autoscan features and Intelligent Diagnostics options, the Ultra offers the technicians step-by-step repair guidance.

The new MaxiFlash VCMI functions as a fourchannel oscilloscope, waveform generator, multimeter, and CAN BUS tester. The convenient docking station ensures you always have power to scan.

Those behind the product say it takes intelligent diagnostics to the next level with diagnostic trouble code symptom-based repair assistance with Technical Service Bulletins from OEM manufacturers for common vehicle issues.

This allows technicians to compare TSBs with

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2022

• Circuit protection provides the analyser with reliable protection against short circuiting.

• Reverse polarity connection protection ensures reverse connection will not damage the tester or affect the vehicle and battery.

• No additional batteries required – unit is powered via test battery.

current issues, eliminating unnecessary stripping of components and improving efficiency.

The topology module tree is a new, exclusive feature from Autel, in which the tool automatically displays all the modules on a single page and highlights the modules that have faults.

Technicians can then see which modules are linked directly, for a better understanding of how faults are related, and which faults are a priority.

For more information, contact your local Repco or NAPA store today.

Visit www.repco.com.au or www.napaparts.com.au for your nearest branch.

HANDTOOLS & DIAGNOSTICS

GO CORDLESS

With the Lithium-Ion Soldering Iron Tradeflame is home to an extensive range of soldering irons which it says have stood as an industry benchmark for many years.

Tradeflame says its soldering irons have been designed in-house to be more versatile and ergonomic and are loaded with innovative features for improved function and ease of use.

The range varies from 8W to 100W, fully portable to 240V, and has an iron to suit any level of user, project, or location.

Portable Soldering options are the way to go for many tradies and caravanners, and the 4.2V 12W Rechargeable Lithium-Ion Soldering Iron is a new firm favourite.

Powered by a 2900 mAh, 4.2V lithium-ion battery which recharges in two hours with the provided USB-C cable, Tradeflame says this little power iron reaches the maximum temperature of 480°C in a record time of three minutes and provides continuous use for up to 50 minutes per charge.

Not only is this soldering iron a fast-charging powerhouse, Tradeflame says it has included the

best features that every soldering enthusiast has always asked for.

“We learned that many users worked for extended amounts of time on certain projects, and with a bad grip design comes tiredness and soreness in the hand. With this is mind, we gave it an ergonomic design for maximum comfort in every way, including safe anti-roll wings to stop it rolling off surfaces when placed down,” Tradeflame Category Manager, Scott Archibald, said.

“We’ve also taken into consideration that certain portable areas can be quite dark to work in, so we’ve added an LED working light so you can always see what you’re soldering no matter how small or dark the space.

“Some copper soldering iron tips can deteriorate quite quickly, but with our long-life conical tip, the tip is iron plated for anti-corrosion, the inner core is copper for good conduction of heat resulting in a longer lifetime for the tip if properly maintained, you’ll also get great value for money and a more cost-effective option for serious users.”

Recently, Tradeflame sent the Lithium-Ion

Soldering Iron on a road-test with avid caravanners Grant and Linda Bloffwitch on a trip around Australia. Upon their return, they were incredibly happy with their new iron.

“No longer do we need an inverter and extension lead specifically for using the soldering iron. The LED illuminated the soldering tip for the times when we were working in dark areas such as under a vehicle’s dashboard, and the unit heats up in minimal time,” Linda said.

Whether you’re on the go or just like the freedom of soldering without a cord, Tradeflame says the Lithium-Ion is ideal for any job faced by a mechanic, 4WDer or carvananner, electrician or DIY enthusiast.

For more information, visit www.tradeflame.com

BOSCH OFFERS A UNIQUE DIAGNOSTIC SOLUTION Cyber security measures may change how diagnostic testing is approached The “Secure Gateway Module,” often called SGW, is a technology that has been developing in the aftermarket diagnostic repair arena.

The SGW acts as a firewall between a vehicle’s multimedia system, diagnostic port, and other electronic systems to prevent unauthorised access.

As the electronic systems in cars become more powerful, they also become more vulnerable to failures in cyber security.

For example, in 2015 a pair of hackers demonstrated that they were able to access and gain control of a Jeep Cherokee’s electronic systems from a remote location.

This was achieved by infiltrating the connected

vehicle’s multimedia Wi-Fi connection. Chrysler quickly corrected this particular problem, but it brought awareness to the need for better cyber security for vehicles.

This is where the SGW comes in, and it’s expected that all vehicles with integrated connected technology will have a form of SGW installed within the next five years.

This will affect aftermarket workshops in a few different ways. It’s possible that the scan tools that many shops utilise now will have very limited access when it comes to vehicles fitted with the SGW. Something as simple as a service reset function may become impossible to complete. Users might not be able to access any Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) to calibrate. It could be that a scanner could read fault codes but not clear them. Nobody knows for sure yet what will and will not be possible as this is still a developing technology.

Bosch Diagnostics has created a solution to this looming problem with its Secure Diagnostics Access (SDA) technology, which is integrated into Bosch’s KTS 250, 350, 560, and 590 range of diagnostic tools with the latest ESI[tronic] 2.0 software.

This software offers comprehensive vehicle coverage while also giving unrestricted access to vehicles with the SGW. The diagnostic tool will need to be connected to a stable Wi-Fi connection, and the user will need to register a Bosch ID and possess a valid and current ESI[tronic] software license.

It offers an added advantage of eliminating the need to register employees and the business with each individual vehicle manufacturer and paying a subscription fee every time the diagnostic tool is used (which is currently the case with FCA vehicles).

For a demonstration on the Bosch KTS250, KTS560 and KTS590 diagnostic tools, please contact your nearest CoolDrive Auto Parts branch.

For more information, visit www.cooldrive.com.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2022

89

HANDTOOLS & DIAGNOSTICS

NEW ZENITH Z5 AUTOMOTIVE DIAGNOSTIC SCAN TOOL Locally designed and engineered for the Australian/New Zealand and Oceania markets G-Scan Oceania would like to introduce the exciting new Zenith Z5 which continues on the highly successful G-Scan professional scan tool series.

The Zenith Z5 is described by G-Scan Oceania as a world class, premium quality, compact, ruggedised eight-inch industrial tablet made in Korea, which features an enhanced user interface designed to seamlessly integrate with new Australian fair to share legislation.

It features EZDS’ “unparalleled” diagnostic software program familiar to the Australian/ New Zealand market since 2009 and is driven by a powerful octa-core processor for optimum performance and efficiency in the workshop.

offers higher resolution and is clearly seen in bright sunlight conditions.

Featuring the Android 9 operating system for fast and easy menu selection, quick boot up, multitasking, fast networking and enhanced security, the Zenith Z5 offers advanced graphing, recording and logging of vehicle data analysis and momentary glitches can be monitored, saved and reviewed very simply.

The first model of the new Z series is a result of demand from tech savvy automotive professionals in various world markets including Japan and South Korea.

The Zenith Z5 supports 12 and 24v light and heavy vehicles with Bi-Directional functionality to perform functions such as key programming, DPF regeneration, injector pilot learning, steering angle calibration, electronic park brake service mode, automatic transmission learn functions, module coding and programming, ADAS calibrations, J2534 pass thru programming (internal), hybrid and electric special functions, battery registrations and more.

EZDS has opted for an ergonomic, light weight, workshop friendly ruggedized tablet with an eightinch Eyellumicate crystal clear display. It says the premium field optimised full high-definition display

The professional Pre and Post scan diagnostic

The Smart update system allows the user to remain up to date easily using Wifi and files can be printed or shared via Wifi and Bluetooth.

report function provides an intuitively designed diagnostic report created quickly and easily, including business logo, workshop and customer details, diagnostic trouble codes, saved image files, camera images, personalised notes and more.

The Z5 offers diagnostic software programmed by engineers with technicians in mind, including fast access to Service functions menu and Auto selections, all backed by a professional, local technical support team to assist.

The Zenith Z5 is available to purchase throughout Oceania from the same reseller network.

For more information or to order, call 02 9905 8055 or email sales@zenithdiag.com.au for an upgrade option available in your location.

TIMING TOOLS

Specialist Tools Australia has an extensive range of timing tools The relationship between the moving parts of an engine is kept in check by the very precise timing of the engine components.

Specialist Tools has a wide array of tools for the job.

The engine timing and supply pump removal tool for the Ford/Mazda Duratorq 2.0L/ 2.2L/ 2.4L and 3.2 litre engines combination kit (SA-8033 and SA-8033A) can assist with the positioning of gears, retaining of the timing belt and holding of the supply pump gear.

The SA-8366 timing belt replacement set is said to be very comprehensive and versatile, suiting many Honda, Mazda, Hyundai and Daewoo (diesel and petrol) vehicles. This kit contains 25 different components that will lock and align the camshafts, crankshaft, tensioner etc during the removal and installation of the engine timing belt, chain and other engine servicing and repairs while removing

90

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2022

components. It also contains a comprehensive range pulley holding and pulling tools suitable for popular Australian, Japanese and Korean applications.

When an engine is fitted with a VE type rotary fuel pump the setting is expressed as plunger lift measurement in mm at a specified point, usually ATDC (At Top Dead Centre). It is often difficult to ascertain “Top Dead Centre” before the engine or casing needs to be dismantled as this position will be critical for all other timing operations – Specialist Tools Australia’s Top Dead Centre tool (SA-5193) is a pneumatic indicator for finding top dead centre.

Measurements can be checked and set with dedicated tooling containing a dial indicator and specific adaptors like those found in Specialist Tools’ Diesel Fuel Pump Timing Set (SA-8214A) which is designed for many vehicles in Australia

such as Toyota, Nissan, Mitsubishi, Mazda, VW, Audi and Ford. This kit contains the dial indicator, DTI bracket and probe with adaptors, Injection pump locking pin and camshaft alignment pin and locking bracket.

In the Specialised Govoni range is a number of tools for European vehicles including kits for the removal of fuel pumps, injection Fuel Pump and engine timing tools.

Amongst the range is the Audi/VW Kit with specialised components for locking the camshaft, crankshaft and fixing the chain tensioner (G310215000), while the Govoni Timing Tool Set for Fiat, Ford, Volvo, Peugeot and Citroen vehicles includes special tools for the flywheel and locking pin for the camshaft/crankshaft.

There are also many other timing tools available on Specialist Tools’ website.

For more information or assistance in finding the right tool, visit www.specialisttools.com.au or call 02 6280 4334.

HANDTOOLS & DIAGNOSTICS

CENTURY YU-FIT BATTERY CONFIGURATOR TOOL Proper battery configuration matters now more than ever Today’s vehicles are becoming increasingly complex, with a variety of technologies now being employed by manufacturers to improve fuel efficiency and reduce carbon emissions.

With the introduction of C02 production control systems including Idle Stop Start, it is essential that vehicles have a battery of the correct type and specification installed.

More importantly, several automotive manufacturers have introduced active energy management systems that require the replacement battery to be correctly configured to the vehicle following installation.

This configuration is required because a brandnew replacement battery requires a very different charging strategy compared to the battery which has reached the end of its serviceable life.

Applying the old charging strategy to a new battery could result in a loss of Stop Start system functionality, loss of vehicle system functionality, plus increased fuel usage and C02 emissions.

Luckily, the configuration of these vehicle energy management systems can now be carried out simply and easily using the Century Yu-Fit battery configurator tool.

The Yu-Fit tool can be used to configure the replacement battery to the vehicle’s active energy management system – informing the vehicle that

a new battery of the correct type and performance has been installed.

It will also inform the charging system of the new battery characteristics and ensure the correct charging strategy is applied right from the start.

Century says configuring a vehicle with the YuFit tool following battery replacement will ensure the vehicle’s charging, energy management and system functionalities will perform as intended, and ensure that your customer will receive the best possible performance from their battery purchase.

The Century Yu-Fit tool comes pre-loaded with profiles for all common vehicle manufacturer makes and models and receives regular updates to help keep pace with the latest changes to the Australian new car market – all by simply connecting the tool to your PC.

Don’t leave your customers stranded - test every battery Research has proven the correlation between the more batteries you test, the more you sell.

In Australia, approximately 750,000 vehicles per year require a roadside battery replacement – and over 70 percent of these vehicles would have been in a service bay or retail outlet within the last six months.

Century says proactive battery testing using

a handheld tester like the DHC BT521A from Century Yuasa provides an accurate on the spot test result in minutes.

It can help identify suspect batteries before they fail and highlight problems with the vehicle’s starting and charging system. But more importantly, it helps your customers avoid the financial and emotional costs associated with a flat or faulty battery.

For more information, please contact your Century Yuasa representative on 1300 362 287 or visit www.centurybatteries.com.au

NEW CSC-DIGITAL CALIBRATION TOOL HELLA GUTMANN invites you to join the digital revolution It is common knowledge that more and more vehicle models are being equipped with modern safety assistant systems such as Autonomous Emergency Braking, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keeping Assist or Lane Change Assist.

HELLA GUTMANN states that with its CSC-Tool Digital app technicians now have access to more than 20 calibration targets across multiple makes and models.

As quickly as ADAS – now a feature in most new vehicles – change and evolve so too does the equipment that services these systems.

It explains that these targets are easily interchanged at the touch of a button, greatly reducing set-up time in comparison to conventional systems while there is no need to physically store multiple panels.

HELLA GUTMANN says it holds a strong sense of innovation and forward thinking in all products it has developed and the latest CSC-Tool Digital calibration solution is testament to this.

Targets are projected in high resolution onto a 200cm screen, using a state-of-the-art ultra-short throw projector – reportedly the largest of any ADAS calibration tool currently available.

Designed with workshop technicians, HELLA GUTMANN says the CSC-Tool Digital is efficient, easy to use and provides even more flexibility than ever before.

In addition, patented green line laser technology makes it quicker and easier to ensure absolute alignment of the vehicle’s camera or radar sensor using its rear axle.

Australian workshops service a wide range of vehicle makes and models, each with unique calibration requirements. As a result, the versatility necessary from calibration and diagnostic tools is even more important.

With HELLA GUTMANN’s flexible licensing options users can choose between purchasing and renting target images based on their needs, allowing workshops to easily service a wider range of vehicles.

92

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2022

In addition, when used in conjunction with the HELLA GUTMANN mega macs series of diagnostic tools, a calibration report can be generated as a permanent record that calibration has been carried out.

HELLA GUTMANN calibration and diagnostic solutions will be on display at AAAExpo with live demos also available throughout the duration of the show – visit the HELLA stand (J2) to find out more.

For a no obligation discussion with one of HELLA GUTMANN’s specialists, call 1800 061 729 or email hgscustomersupport@hella.com

HANDTOOLS & DIAGNOSTICS

REPLACE OR REPAIR?

It all started with simple ignition modules, closely followed by the enigmatic ECM Since then, the OEMs have taken electronic control to the extreme. Modern vehicles commonly feature a slew of complex, electronic modules controlling the driveline, braking/stability systems, security systems, climate control – there’s even controllers working the wipers (auto rain detect) and automatic headlight levelling.

As we all know, these control modules are prone to failure – with correct diagnosis and rectification anything but straightforward.

Injectronics launched in 1984 and says it has become the industry leader in the remanufacturing and repair of automotive electronic modules. It states the service is not only cost effective, it is also fast and worry free thanks to its 12-month warranty, making it the most viable option for many workshops.

Why new modules need programming Control module programming is and will surely be the topic of conversation for the next decade or so, as many more electronic modules require specific programming. They are programed with unique, VIN-specific data relating to the vehicle’s individual engine, transmission, driveline, safety, security, instrumentation, infotainment and comfort systems.

Brand new modules have none of this information and require programming, often completed by an OEM diagnostic tool using a process called PassThru Programming. And it gets worse.

When a new module is introduced to a vehicle, if the components it operates, along with the other modules it links to do not all communicate correctly, completely new issues can emerge within seemingly unrelated systems.

Plug ‘n’ Play convenience Few shops have the specialist diagnostic equipment to carry out the necessary reprograming. After replacing a faulty module, the vehicle still has to go to the dealer on the back of a truck. So, Injectronics asks, is replacing a control module the only option?

In most cases, Injectronics says it is able to repair electronic control modules, without losing any VIN-specific or functional programming data and return it ready for re-installation. It explains this means there is little to no additional programing required, no need for specialised programing equipment, no need to download software from the internet and no need to send the customer’s vehicle off to the dealership.

When repair is not possible, Injectronics says it can typically ‘Clone’ the original VIN-specific data and move it across to the replacement module.

The age problem As vehicles get to the age where new, replacement modules are no longer available – or the dealer no longer caters to a vehicle, the ability to make these repairs and maintain original programming is vital – otherwise the vehicle essentially becomes a throw-away proposition.

This was a prime motivation for Injectronics to heavily invest in developing the specialised equipment and expertise necessary to assess, repair and reprogram a myriad of automotive electronic modules.

Injectronics states that it utilises its very own designed and built Virtual Automotive Simulator (VAS). With this sophisticated computerised testing station, there is no probing of wiring looms or circuit boards, rather the VAS is able to run and verify a module’s every function. Which in turn enables repair technicians to quickly and confidently identify any operational faults, plus ensure the completed repair is ready to plug and play.

Intermittent faults are the worst With its VAS machine, Injectronics states it is able to repeatedly cycle a suspect module to induce the intermittent fault to reveal itself. It is also not uncommon for intermittent faults to only occur under certain temperature conditions.

The engineers place modules in Hot and Cold conditions, while using the Virtual Automotive Simulator, to replicate both real-world operating conditions but also extreme temperatures.

800 and counting Currently Injectronics lists over 800 different electronic control modules with an identified and proven repair procedure. As impressive as this number is, Injectronics says it is particularly proud of its ‘First Unit’ department which is constantly evaluating, decrypting and problem-solving new units to add to Injectronics’ database, which is why Injectronics encourages enquiries regarding units not listed on the website.

The diagnosis dilemma Injectronics says that yes, the recent passing of the Australian Data Sharing Legislation is going to prompt more opportunity for independent repairers and the replacement of new electronic control modules. It states that diagnostic and reprogramming equipment will still be required – along with specialised, in-depth training to complete the tasks. It encourages you to keep in mind that Injectronics provides a dedicated technical support hotline to discuss issues and asses the best direction for repair – a service which is offered for free to customers.

Both light and heavy It is not all about passenger vehicles for Injectronics. The widespread use of electronic control modules in heavy vehicles (trucks) and plant equipment has made servicing this industry a major area of growth and resource allocation for the company.

With its strong focus on research, development and innovation, combined with its extensive experience – Injectronics says it is the perfect workshop partner, stating that it can take the headache out of dealing with the myriad of unfathomable electronic control modules fitted to modern vehicles.

Visit www.injectronics.com.au for a full listing of services, or to book a repair and speak with the technical team call 1300 308 060.

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2022

93

TRADE TALK

LEADING FROM THE FRONT Rapid Tune’s Chief Executive Officer is a hands-on leader and his passion and dedication are getting results From humble beginnings in a small office of his first store in Ferntree Gully, Victoria, Rapid Tune Chief Executive Officer Mark Rippon developed his franchising vision for the future.

He grew up in a family that was always involved in the automotive industry and after completing his mechanical apprenticeship he joined an automotive brand and eventually ran his own multiple franchise business.

Having been a franchisee himself with other brands, Mark had personally witnessed the pitfalls of other franchise networks and intimately understood the needs of franchisees. He set out to create a franchise brand with a unique culture and high franchisee satisfaction.

His dedication has paid off, as late last year, Rapid Tune was awarded the Franchise Council of Australia’s Australian Established Franchisor of the Year award.

“Winning the FCA Australian Established Franchisor of the Year award is a great honour and testament to the amazing culture we have built together and are renowned for at Rapid Tune,” Mark said.

“Australian small business owners have demonstrated their ability to adjust and adapt during one of the most economically disruptive periods in history.

“It is a surreal feeling to be put up on a pedestal alongside some of Australia’s top franchisors including Chicken Treat, Couriers Please, Pirtek, and RAMS. I commend all of the award finalists and winners on their outstanding efforts and welldeserved recognition in 2021.”

Since its inception in 2003 Rapid Tune has steadily grown its brand, franchise footprint, customer and franchisee satisfaction scores and revenue. It has deliberately chosen to expand sustainably with

94

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2022

an initial focus on Victoria and now Queensland.

Following that it will turn its attention to New South Wales.

Rapid Tune is an innovative and rapidly growing franchise within the automotive aftermarket repair sector. Today it has 32 locations, 30 franchises and two company stores based in Victoria and Queensland, 22 of which were launched within the last five years.

It performs a wide range of mechanical repairs on all makes and models of vehicles including logbook servicing, brake repairs, air conditioning, management system diagnostics and a complete range of tyre fitting services.

“We see marketing as a vital tool to building brand recognition and consumer trust. In 2019, we saw an opportunity in the market to create brand differentiation from Rapid Tune to other organisations in the car servicing industry,” Mark said.

“Our ‘We’ll keep you moving’ campaign not only represents our strong customer service philosophy and range of products, it promotes the values and professionalism of our people who deliver those services every day.

“Throughout the last 12 months our first marketing priority has been to build brand awareness with the end customers to generate leads for our franchisees. Rapid Tune has invested in local area marketing, especially in Queensland which has a smaller group of franchisees and marketing budget.

“Our national marketing plan was developed by our senior leadership team and external suppliers including our digital marketing and website development agencies. We also involve our franchisees in the planning process, consulting them on our campaign approach and even including them in our creative (for example, some franchisees have starred in our advertisements).”

The multi-channel campaign, which initially ran for the duration of 2019/20, was extended into 2020/21 and now into 2022. This predominantly includes TV commercials on Channel 7 and Channel 9, supported by radio campaigns on MMM and 3AW. “This campaign has had an excellent impact on brand recognition, building more trust and credibility for the Rapid Tune franchisees,” Mark said.

“The connectivity, TVC campaigns and social media presence have all had a knock-on effect to our online reviews, resulting in high levels of customer satisfaction reflected in our Google ratings.

“We undertake extensive research to inform and

keep the business plan current. For example, research is undertaken to identify new store locations including demographic research from local councils and Commonwealth Government Census data.

“We always consult the Group and encourage our franchisees to share their ideas on new products, opportunities and best practices. To further encourage collaboration, we have provided cloud-based software and mobile apps for groupwide communication and to enable the sharing of technical information on the ever-changing industry standards. The same tools help us to capture customer feedback and deliver training for employees and business owners.

“Our cloud-based RMS system also enables the head office to undertake real-time analysis and provide immediate support as needed for all of our franchisees. The sophisticated software delivers valuable data analytics that enable us to pair customers’ most needed services with opportunities for franchisees to generate profit and repeat business.

“Our intranet also helps us to maintain communication and connection across the organisation. In 2020, we established a COVID-19 channel to quickly provide government updates and other forms of support.

“Fears and anxieties about business performance often stem from what’s happening in our personal lives. I’ve learned that you can’t focus on performance without taking into account the personal and emotional needs of the business owner.

“That was especially the case throughout the pandemic when we really needed to provide both professional and personal reassurance for our people.

“Business performance is often measured within spreadsheets, business systems and KPIs, but

TRADE TALK

what’s often overlooked are the personal needs of the business owner.”

The past few years have provided unique challenges for all businesses and Rapid Tune has been no different, but Mark says it was important to get on the front foot and work with his franchisees so everyone could come out the other side safely.

“The onset of COVID-19 enabled us to uncover several opportunities to modify our business planning process and adapt accordingly,” Mark said.

“For example, during Melbourne’s second lockdown our services were reduced to emergency repairs only, which put an enormous strain on Melbourne franchisees. We intervened to lessen the impacts and protect franchisees from the financial fallout out.”

These measures included negotiating rent relief on behalf of franchisees; royalty relief; supporting franchisees to apply for government subsidies and support, financing assistance and loan deferrals.

“These measures not only helped franchisees weather the storm, they also helped us build integrity and bolster our franchisee relationships, demonstrating our proposition of being one of the

most supportive franchise systems in the country,” Mark said.

“We realised early on that aspiring franchisees with great potential didn’t always have access to the capital required to attain business ownership.

“This not only restricted individuals from achieving the personal goals and career advancement, but also robbed the Rapid Tune network of highly skilled and experienced business operators. This led us to create Rapid Tune’s financing arm to make business ownership more accessible to the right people.

“Through our vendor’s finance product, we have opened doors to deserving franchisees to achieve their dreams of becoming business owners. This has also supported the wider Group’s successful growth and expansion objectives by retaining highly accomplished and dedicated professionals within our network.”

The automotive aftermarket industry regularly confronts two consistent challenges. Firstly, the ever-changing land scape of vehicle innovation and technology and secondly, the recruitment and training of Automotive Technicians.

“Through the support of the AAAA, we as an industry have the ability to address these issues and enjoy continued success well into the exciting future of the automotive industry,” Mark said.

Mark is convinced team culture is one of the main ingredients in developing a successful automotive business.

“We have a high-performing, adaptable and allhands-on-deck team culture. Our employees have a shared sense of purpose, ownership and love of the brand which shines through in everything they do,” he enthused.

There are not many other businesses where the Chief Executive Officer is as hands on as Mark, who regularly meets with staff one-on-one to offer mentoring and support.

“Staff are given the opportunity to contribute to other functional areas, take on work outside of their comfort zone, undertake extensive training and take on more responsibility to contribute to their professional development,” Mark said.

He is a strong advocate of the mantra that no team member is more or less important than any other, including the franchise owners themselves and their employees.

“We work hard to build trusted relationships, with open and honest communication, with our franchisees. This enables us to have the tough conversations when needed and encourage accountability in order to help our franchisees succeed,” Mark said.

“We’ve planned for further national expansion without compromising the quality of our franchise network.

“We will never succumb to expanding for expansions sake, selecting the right franchisees for the network always comes first.

“We have a structured step-by-step franchisee recruitment process and are particular when selecting franchisees. We carefully screen candidates to assess suitability and alignment with our business model and culture.

“This is achieved via detailed information gathering in the application phase followed by one-to-one meetings with either our GM or myself as CEO. “Over 90 percent of franchisee candidates come from within. The rest are attracted via social media campaigns and word of mouth. Candidates are attracted by our extensive franchisee support and personal touch.”

So, with Victoria and Queensland well on the way to being conquered, Australia’s most populated state, New South Wales, is Rapid Tune’s next frontier. There’s no doubt some well-established automotive repair and servicing brands in the Emerald City and its surrounding regions are currently feeling just a little nervous about the prospects of taking on the new player about to enter their territory.

For more information, visit www.rapidtune.com.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2022

95

CONSUMER LAW

DIRECTOR IDENTIFICATION NUMBERS There is a new requirement for directors, and alternate directors, to apply for a director identification number (director ID), under the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth) (Corporation Act)

The Government is aiming to prevent false or fraudulent use of director identities and unlawful activities.

What is the requirement?

A director, including an alternate director (acting in that capacity), is required to have a director ID if they are a director of a company, registered Australian body, registered foreign company or Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander corporation (registered under the Corporations (Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander) Act 2006 (Cth)).

A director ID only needs to be applied for once, regardless of whether a person is a director of multiple companies (unless directed otherwise by the registrar of director IDs).

When must a person apply for a director ID? The timing for applying for a director ID varies depending on when a person becomes a director: • a person who was an existing director on or before 31 October 2021 has until 30 November 2022 to apply; • a person who becomes a director between 1 November 2021 and 4 April 2022 must apply within 28 days of their appointment; and • from 5 April 2022 a person intending to become a director must apply before being appointed as director.

If a person applies for a director ID before being a director, but does not become a director within 12 months, the director ID is cancelled.

Directors of an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander corporation have longer to apply (please visit the

Australian Business Registry Services for further information).

Linking the director ID to companies It is anticipated by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) that your director ID will be linked to companies that persons are directors of in September 2023. Until this is implemented a person is not required to disclose the director ID to ASIC or to the company a person is a director of.

How does a person apply for a director ID? The Australian Business Registry Services (ABRS) website provides a detailed guide on how to apply for a director ID. A person can apply for a director ID through the myGovID online app. Once the myGovID is setup, a person can log onto and provide information and documents to verify their identity. A guide is provided on the ABRS website.

If you are unable to apply online using the myGovID app, the ABRS can be contacted and a director ID applied for by way of telephone or by using a paper form.

What if a director does not have a director ID? Penalties apply for the failure to comply with the director ID requirements, such as having a director ID or applying for multiple director IDs. For example, failing to have a director ID has a maximum pecuniary penalty of up to $1,100,000 (civil, based on matters considered by the court) or $13,200 (criminal).

Applying for multiple director IDs can result in one year imprisonment. Infringement notices may also be issued.

Takeaways The key takeaways are: • a director must apply for a director ID; • application timeframes vary, for directors registered under the Corporation Act: directors appointed on or before 31 October 2021, by 30 November 2022; for directors appointed between 1 November 2021 and 4 April 2022, within 28 days of their appointment; and for directors intending to be appointed from 5 April 2022, before they are appointed as a director; • only one director ID may be applied for.

This document is intended for general information purposes only and should not be regarded as legal advice. Please contact Industry Legal Group if you require legal advice.

Individual liability limited by a scheme approved under professional standards legislation.

AAAA Member Benefits Industry Legal Group provides advice to members on commercial law matters.

If you have any questions relating to the above information, please contact Industry Legal Group on 1300 369 703 or aaaa@industrylegalgroup.com.au 96

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2022

HR

COVID19: LEAVE ENTITLEMENTS DURING QUARANTINE AND SELF-ISOLATION

In this article, Employer Assist explains the leave entitlements for various COVD-19 related scenarios With the rising number of positive COVID-19 cases, Employer Assist is receiving enquiries from members about leave entitlements for employees who are absent from work because they have COVID-19, are a close contact of someone who has COVID-19 or are getting tested. This article will explain the leave entitlements for each of these scenarios.

MY EMPLOYEE HAS COVID-19 Employees who have tested positive for COVID19 must not attend work and are required to self-isolate in accordance with the applicable enforceable government directions.

Your permanent employees are entitled to take paid personal/carer’s leave if they cannot work because they have COVID-19.

If they have no paid personal/carer’s leave available, their absence is unpaid unless they come to an agreement with you to take some other type of paid leave (for example, annual leave).

Personal/Carer’s Leave Entitlement In accordance with section 97 of the Fair Work Act 2009 (Cth), an employee may take personal/ carer’s leave if the leave is taken: • because the employee is not fit for work because of a personal illness, or a personal injury, affecting the employee, or • to provide care or support to a member of the employee’s immediate family or household who is suffering from a personal illness or injury or there is an unexpected emergency affecting the member.

MY EMPLOYEE IS A CLOSE CONTACT If your employee is a close contact of someone who has COVID-19 and required to quarantine or

self-isolate because of an enforceable government direction, options include: 1. Flexible working arrangements – ie: consider whether the employee can work from home; 2. Paid personal/carer’s leave if eligible (see above). However, usual rules apply – ie: they must let you know as soon as possible and provide evidence if requested (for example, a medical certificate); 3. If there are no suitable flexible working arrangements and the employee is not eligible for personal/carer’s leave, the absence is unpaid unless they come to an agreement with you to take some other type of paid leave (for example, annual leave).

MY EMPLOYEE IS ABSENT FROM WORK TO GET A COVID-19 TEST AND IS WAITING ON THE RESULTS There are various reasons why an employee may be getting tested which may impact what leave they are entitled to (if any). For instance, the employee may be getting tested because they are ill, in which case they would be eligible for paid personal/carer’s leave if available.

Alternatively, they may be getting tested because they are a close contact, in which case see above options under “my employee is a close contact.”

If you direct your employee to get tested for COVID19 in circumstances where there is no enforceable government direction (for example, a public health order) requiring the employee to get tested, then the employee is entitled to be paid for the time spent getting tested as if they had worked. This is not the case where the employee is complying with an enforceable government direction at their own discretion unless they are taking paid leave as detailed above.

UNPAID PANDEMIC LEAVE Some limited awards provide employees access to up to two weeks of unpaid pandemic leave (or more by agreement with their employer) if they are prevented from working as a result of a requirement to self-isolate or government enforceable directions.

Relevantly for members, the Vehicle Repair Services and Retail Award no longer has unpaid pandemic leave. However, the Manufacturing and Associated Industries and Occupations Award does have unpaid pandemic leave provisions ending on 30 June 2022 (unless extended).

PANDEMIC LEAVE DISASTER PAYMENT Subject to eligibility criteria, employees who cannot earn income because they have to selfisolate, quarantine or care for someone with COVID-19 can apply to Services Australia for a Pandemic Leave Disaster Payment. If required, refer employees to Services Australia for more information on this payment.

This article is intended for information purposes only and should not be regarded as legal advice. Please contact Employer Assist for advice.

AAAA Member Benefits Employer Assist provides all AAAA members with advice regarding all aspects of your workplace and employment law.

It can assist you in understanding your employment obligations in relation to leave entitlements.

Please contact Employer Assist on 1300 735 306 or aaaa@employerassist.com.au if you require any assistance.

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2022

97

4WD

4X4 CRAWLER BAR RELEASED BENDIX ULTIMATE UNEEK 4WD BRAKE DRUM For the new Isuzu D-Max UPGRADE KITS Now available for popular 4WD wagons and dual cab utes

Bendix has released an advanced Ultimate 4WD Brake Drum Upgrade Kit for a range of popular 4WD vehicles and dual cab utilities as a direct bolt on replacement making installation relatively simple for a qualified automotive technician.

The kit contains two Ultimate 4WD Brake Drums, one Ultimate 4WD Brake Shoe Kit plus a can of Bendix Cleanup and Bendix Rotor Wipes.

Bendix explains that the advanced high carbon metallurgy drum increases brake performance and stopping power and has a protective ‘Swiftfit’ zinc coating making it ready to fit.

The hub is coated with epoxy with corrosion inhibitors that will not regrade over time, making it look attractive and very functional.

Bendix says the bake shoes in the kit are GG friction rated with higher friction capabilities than the OE parts, improving stopping performance overall especially with heavy loads.

Available now from Uneek 4X4 is the Crawler Bar for the 2021 Isuzu D-Max dual cab 2WD HighRide and 4WD models including the SX, LS-M, and LS-U. Designed, tested, and manufactured in Australia, Uneek 4X4 says its products support the continued growth of Australia’s local manufacturing sector.

Uneek 4X4 says its line of Frontal Protection works seamlessly with the Intelligent Driver Assistance System and the addition of the bar will not impede on any OEM safety features.

All Uneek 4X4 Crawler bars feature a full steel channel designed for an increased approach angle and swept back wings to fit tight to the body for an aggressive and rugged look. The no-hoop design allows you to add an optional two-inch centre hoop for mounting led light bars.

Uneek 4X4 Crawler Bars come standard with Hi-Lift jack points, LED fog lights, recovery points included, and have been designed to accommodate up to a 11,000 Lb winch. They are backed by Uneek 4X4’s five-year structural warranty.

“Our business is very proud to be building this Crawler Bar out of Australian steel, in our factory right here in Melbourne,” Uneek 4X4 General Manager, James Burt, said.

“Our research and development team has put a lot of effort into designing a product that is well thought out and genuinely tough enough to be used off road anywhere in Australia.This is why we can offer our market leading warranty.”

Founded in 2013, Uneek 4X4 is part of GUD Holdings, has resellers around Australia and exports to several countries worldwide. It states each of its products are 100 percent ADR compliant, airbag compatible and covered by its five-year Warranty.

For more information, please visit www.Uneek4x4.com.au

NEW EXTREME DUTY ELECTRIC WINCH LAUNCHED From Carbon Offroad

The latest release from Carbon Offroad is the allnew premium Scout Pro Extreme Duty 12000lb Electric winch.

This product is the new standard in extreme winch performance, says Carbon Offroad.

The Carbon Offroad Scout Pro Extreme Duty Performance Series winches are built with the frequent use winching user in mind.

The black painted steel shoes also incorporate improved corrosion resistance and are said to have superior strength and durability.

Designed to perfectly complement the Ultimate Bendix 4WD Brake Upgrade kit, the Ultimate 4WD Brake Drum Upgrade kit covers the rear brake drums on vehicles such as Ford Ranger; Colorado; Isuzu D-Max; Mazda BT50; Mitsubishi Triton; Nissan D40, D23; Toyota Hilux and VW Amarok with a simple straight forward upgrade.

With a recommended retail price of approximately $549 the Bendix 4WD Brake Drum Upgrade Kit is available from leading automotive Bendix stockists nationwide.

For more information, visit www.bendix.com.au 98

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2022

It features larger modulus gearsets, increased motor horsepower and standard inclusions from Carbon Offroad’s premium accessory range including the Mega-Pro Winch Rope Thimble and Mega-Pro Premium Fairlead.

“This new winch will outperform most winches on the market with superior loaded line speeds for a quicker recovery and a beefy seven hp motor and a larger heavier duty gearbox to take even more punishment during recoveries,” Carbon Offroad Business Development Manager, James Don, said.

Key features: -

Carbon Winch 2021 V2 winch chassis Seven HP Motor (the current standard 12k features a 6.2hp motor)

-

180:1 super-fast gear ratio (the current standard 12k features a ratio of 216:1) - 12mm synthetic rope with a nine-tonne minimum breaking strain rating (the current 12k features 10mm rope) - based on Carbon Offroad’s new upgraded V2 platform - IP68 Waterproof rating - Carbon Offroad MEGAPRO Premium CNC billet type 3 hard anodised multi position fairlead - Carbon Offroad MEGAPRO 16 tonne soft shackle compatible winch rope thimble - High performance heavy duty upgraded solenoid unit - Packaged complete with all wires, control box, isolator switch, wired / wireless remotes and fitting hardware ready to bolt into most winch compatible bull bars.

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

4WD

MILFORD ULT1MATE ELECTRONIC CODING SYSTEM The next generation in towbar coding

Milford designs, tests, produces and distributes a range of Towbars to suit most vehicle applications including modern passenger motor vehicles, Sports Utility Vehicles and Light Commercial Vehicles including Vans, Cab Chassis and Pickup Utility vehicles.

Milford also catalogues a complete range of application specific, plug-and-play trailer wiring harness kits.

Advances in vehicle safety systems and drive train technologies have progressed significantly in recent years with most vehicles now requiring electronic ‘re-coding’ to operate safely and to improve the vehicle’s performance when towing.

This is particularly the case with increasing vehicle GVMs and larger towing payloads.

A few vehicles arrive in Australia ‘trailer prepared,’ however most require some form of vehicle recoding. Any towbar installation that does not include this when required is simply incomplete and will not only compromise vehicle performance but moreover, may result in a potentially dangerous towing situation.

Milford says its new Ult1Mate Electronic Coding System can perform these vital re-coding requirements.

The system includes a portable coding handset which easily connects to the vehicle OBD II port via the supplied OBD II Male to 15 Pin DB15 Female connecting cable and a PC based support suite which backs up the handset with regular data updates and new vehicle applications.

The handset features a high contrast OLED display, easy to navigate user menu and requires no WiFi or internet connection to operate. It is IP rated and made from sturdy, workshop grade materials, says Milford.

The PC based Application/User interface is said to be intuitive and easy to use and further supported

by Milford’s “legendary” customer service support program which includes video format operating instructions and user guides, print format operating instructions and user guides via download and the 1800 MILFORD Technical Support Hotline.

Boasting more than 400 individual vehicle applications and regular vehicle updates, the

Ultimate Electronic Coding System enables the operator to perform guided or manual vehicle coding changes to Trailer Stability, Sway Mitigation (VSC/ESC) programs, Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Body Control Module (BCM) enhancements and Advanced Driver Assistance system adaptions.

Additionally, Dashboard notifications, displays and alerts can also be updated to reflect the coding changes made.

The Milford Ult1Mate Electronic Coding System is available Australia wide and is ready for immediate delivery.

For more information, contact the Milford team on www.milford.one or 1800 MILFORD.

NEW FROM TERRAIN TAMER Terrain Tamer now offers GVM Upgrade kits with Parabolic Leaf Springs for the Ford Ranger This new offering from Terrain Tamer adds to its already existing range of GVM Upgrade Kits for popular Toyota Hilux and Landcruiser models.

Built into the GVM is also the imparted Tow Ball Mass when towing, and a Rated Axle Capacity; a limit set for how much weight should be distributed to each axle.

Adding 180kg to the Ranger’s original GVM, the Terrain Tamer Parabolic GVM Upgrade Kits include Terrain Tamer Parabolic Springs and all required suspension components, including Smart Coils where applicable.

Terrain Tamer says this provides both a safe and comfortable upgrade solution, with more flex, less shock and exceptional load carrying ability for vehicles that are pushed to their GVM and axle loading limits when towing or loaded with essential gear.

Parabolic Spring GVM Upgrade Kits are also available for the Toyota Hilux GUN/ KUN 125/126 and VDJ78/79 Landcruiser models.

Along with the rest of the full range of kits, Terrain Tamer says its Parabolic GVM Upgrade Kits have been thoroughly tested and analysed by Multidrive Technology to reach Secondary Stage Manufacturers approval and can be installed either prior to registration or on existing registered vehicles at approved workshops.

For more information, visit www.terraintamer.com/suspension or call 1300 888 444 Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2022

99

SHOPFRONT

PRECISION AUTOMOTIVE EQUIPMENT OPENS NEW SA/NT BRANCH

The new branch is located in Regency Park

One of Australia’s largest automotive workshop equipment suppliers and service providers, Precision Automotive Equipment, has become truly national with the opening of the company’s new South Australian branch.

Centrally located at 17A Birralee Road in Regency Park, this new Precision Automotive Equipment branch office includes a showroom and service centre, taking care of the automotive equipment requirements of customers located both in South Australia and in the Northern Territory.

This new branch office provides a hub for Precision Automotive Equipment’s South Australia-based team of business development managers and service technicians, ensuring prompt and local service for their ever-growing customer base in that region.

Testament to Precision Automotive Equipment’s commitment to customer service is the appointment of a Rotary authorised and qualified hoist technician along with a wheel service equipment technician who are permanently based in this new South Australian branch.

Precision Automotive Equipment says this complements the Australian company’s unparalleled network of authorised service technicians located throughout Australia.

Former South Australian service technician, Mark Holloway, now leads the team as branch manager, overseeing the sales and service requirements of all Precision Automotive Equipment customers across South Australia and in the Northern Territory.

An integral part of BAPCOR Limited, Australasia’s largest automotive aftermarket specialised company, Precision Automotive Equipment now has a complete national footprint with branches located in Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Hobart, and Perth.

“We are delighted to be truly national with the opening of our new South Australian branch,” Precision Automotive Equipment General Manager, Peter Hewitt, said.

“This enables us to continue providing the world’s highest quality workshop equipment along with

a premium level of after sales service to our customers, no matter where they are located.”

Precision Automotive Equipment says Mark Holloway and his enthusiastic South Australian Precision Automotive Equipment team look forward to taking care of automotive workshop modernisations, completely new workshop design and fitment projects, along with specific equipment replacements and service requirements.

You can contact the team by calling 1300 366 252.

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

NAPA AUTO PARTS NEVER STOPS 2021 was another very exciting year for NAPA Auto Parts NAPA Auto Parts has just celebrated the opening of another NAPA Auto Parts branch at Kewdale – its sixth branch to open since November 2021 and its 46th branch across Australia in just over two and a half years.

The new location joins the ever-growing NAPA Auto Parts network as Western Australia’s 15th branch, coming in at over 1,000 square metres in size with further space utilised by a spacious mezzanine.

NAPA Auto Parts Kewdale is equipped with the product range and capacity to help service the West Coast, as NAPA Auto Parts continues to expand its offering to the country’s leading Mechanical and Specialist automotive aftermarket professionals.

With 19 branch openings under their belt for 2021, it was a year of many advances for NAPA Auto Parts, who continue to exhibit their promise of “delivering “market leading range, NAPA Know How and every day great value” to the Australian market with the expansion of their own NAPA branded range.”

The NAPA range now offers mechanical workshops a comprehensive suite of engine oils, filters for air, oil, fuel and cabin, wipers, timing kits and power steering kits, with drive belts landing in branches in January 2022.

100

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2022

NAPA Auto Parts says its NAPA range is designed with workshops in mind, creating reliable, staple products, with value for money – perfect for completing that logbook service.

NAPA Auto Parts Merchandise Manager of Filtration, David Cattunar, says his new NAPA filtration range is second to none, offering innovative filtration ranges designed to take oil filtration to a new level.

For instance, NAPA’s spin-on filters feature extra sealing between the gasket and base plate which increases the performance of the anti-drain-backvalve by 98 percent.

“We’ve also developed a new synthetic blend media for our range of oil filters, delivering a premium quality filter with optimal, life, flow and efficiency,” David said.

The NAPA branded collection complements the wider range of products available from NAPA Auto Parts, which includes the world’s most soughtafter brands in the automotive aftermarket.

Not only has NAPA Auto Parts been busy expanding their own brand product offering, adding to the wider range of products available to customers nationwide, but it has also launched its online NAPA Know How Motorsport Academy.

The online Motorsport Academy portal saw hundreds of eager motorsport enthusiasts join the Academy, offering drivers many tools, resources, and tuition to be the best they can be - on and off the track. The program will continue to expand throughout 2022, offering drivers access to more resources and the Know How to succeed.

Throughout the year you can also expect to see many more blue and gold NAPA Auto Parts boxes pop up throughout the country as NAPA Auto Parts continues to enhance its offering to workshops, and continue to optimise its network expansion throughout the country.

For more information about the exciting NAPA Auto Parts developments for the new year, NAPA branded products, or the wider range of automotive specialist and mechanical brands for your workshop, speak with your local NAPA Auto Parts team.

For the details of your nearest branch, visit www.napaparts.com.au/locations