PanelTalk March/April 2016

Official Journal of the Collision Repair Association

March/April 2016

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First I-CAR Gold Shop - Ben Thomas Panelbeating Personality Profile - Dean Adamson

The Packard And Pioneer Museum PanelTalk

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NEW FEATURES ~ NEW SOLUTIONS ~ BETTER FINISHING

2 PanelTalk

Official Journal of the Collision Repair Association

March/April 2016

IN THIS ISSUE OFFICIAL JOURNAL

OF THE COLLISION REPAIR ASSOCIATION PUBLISHER Collision Repair Association P.O. Box 9208 Waikato Mail Centre Hamilton 3240

33.

Packard Museum

4.

Ben Thomas Panelbeating First I-CAR Gold

EDITOR Rex Crowther DESIGNER Rebecca Tune PANELTALK MAGAZINE 362 Great North Road Arch Hill Auckland 0612 PO Box 32 362 Devonport Auckland 0744 PHONE: (09) 360 8437 EMAIL: paneltalkmagazine@gmail.com CIRCULATION & SUBSCRIPTIONS Collision Repair Association Ph: 07-847 0216 Fax: 07-847 0217 Email: collision.repair@xtra.co.nz COPYRIGHT No part of PanelTalk may be reproduced in part or in whole without the written permission of the publisher.

ISSN 0113-8685

EDITORIAL DISCLAIMER Views and opinions expressed in this issue of PanelTalk are not necessarily those of the editor or the publisher.

ADVERTISING DISCLAIMER Claims and statements made in PanelTalk are not necessarily endorsed by the Collision Repair Association.

While care is taken to ensure the accuracy of the advertisements, neither the association nor the editor accepts responsibility for them.

Please like us on facebook: New Zealand Collision Repair Association

11.

Personality Profile - Dean Adamson

CRA Contacts

4

Editorial

5

Ben Thomas Panelbeating - I-CAR Gold

6

It’s Just My Opinion

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Personality Profile - Dean Adamson

13

CRA Q/A Longridge

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CRA Q/A Bodyworks Panelbeaters

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CRA Q/A Turners Panelbeating

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Chairman’s Report

29

MLO - Walter Zuber

31

The Packard and Pioneer Museum

35

Room For Improvement - Axalta Coating Systems

40

MITO

43

People. Products. Events.

44

Regional Roundup

I-CAR Technical Pages

48

I-CAR Courses

56

CRA Promo and Compliance

58

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PanelTalk 3

NZ COLLISION REPAIR ASSOCIATION INC

CONTACTS for over

100 years

CRA National Office: 1st floor (above Firestone), 3 Lincoln Street, Frankton, Hamilton, PO Box 9208, Waikato Mail Centre, HAMILTON 3240 Ph: 07 847 0216 Fax: 07 847 0217 Email: collision.repair@xtra.co.nz Web: www.collisionrepair.co.nz

The New zealand Collision Repair Assiciation’s membership incorporates all types of businesses allied to automotive collision repair. The affairs of the Association are managed by the National executive, which consists of a chairperson and a person appointed from each branch of the Association.

CHAIRMAN: General Manager: Association Manager: OFFICE ADMINISTRATOR:

Alan le Noel Neil Pritchard Adrienne Richardson Erin McLean

027 272 5205 021 663 459 021 572 158 07 847 0216

for over

100 years

alan@haurakipanel.co.nz neil@collisionrepair.co.nz adrienne@collisionrepair.co.nz erin@collisionrepair.co.nz

New membership enquiries should be directed to Erin McLean at the Collision Repair Assiciation National Office.

NORTHLAND

AUCKLAND

CENTRAL NORTH ISLAND

HAWKES BAY

National Executive Rep Carl Henty Louie Berkers Collision Repair Centre Ltd 161 Dent Street, WHANGAREI 0110 (09) 438 8997 (09) 438 8991 carl@louieberkers.co.nz

National Executive Rep Brent Mackay A1 Autofinish 11 Crum Avenue, New Lynn Auckland 0600 (09) 827 8462 (09) 827 5751 a1-auto@xtra.co.nz

National Executive Rep Kris Browne Fleet Image NZ Ltd PO Box 364, TE AWAMUTU 3840 (07) 871-6780 (07) 871-6770 kris@fleetimage.co.nz

National Executive Rep Tim McDougal A & M Panel Repairs 2004 Ltd 12 Thames Street, Pandora NAPIER 4110 (06) 835 6267 (06) 835 0588 timampanel@xtra.co.nz

ChairPERSON Brian Hawes John Neal Panelbeaters & Spraypainters Ltd 107 Port Road, WHANGAREI 110 (09) 438 3101 (09) 438 3102 admin@johnnealpanel.co.nz

Secretary Mike Verkuylen Wynn Fraser Paints PO Box 348, WHANGAREI 0140 (09) 438 1624 (09) 438 3740 mike@wynnfraser.co.nz

ChairPERSON Tyler Schwalger Turners Panelbeating & Carpainting Ltd 147 Target Road, Wairau Valley Auckland 0627 (09) 444 7217 (09) 444 4926 tyler@turnerspanelbeating.co.nz

Secretary Margaret Watterson

ChairPERSON Jeff Robson Hamilton Panel Works (1963) Ltd PO Box 440, Waikato Mail Centre HAMILTON 3240 (07) 847 8023 (07) 847 1292 info@hamiltonpanelworks.co.nz

Secretary Dean Adamson DBNZ Coatings Ltd PO Box 15039, Dinsdale HAMILTON 3243 (07) 847 0933 (07) 847 0932 dean@dbnz.co.nz

Secretary

ChairPERSON Wayne Zaloum Napier Collision Repair Centre PO Box 12092, Ahuriri NAPIER (06) 835 7490

MANAWATU WHANGANUI TARANAKI

National Executive Rep Stephen Perrin Harts Body Shop PO Box 7137, Pioneer Highway PALMERSTON NORTH 4443 (06) 358 4098 (06) 359 5387 harts.body@xtra.co.nz

ChairPERSON Warren Bradley Dittmer Collision Repairs 934 Tremaine Ave, Roslyn PALMERSTON NORTH 4414 (06) 356 8218 (06) 356 8357 info@dittmer.co.nz

Secretary

WELLINGTON

National Executive Rep Tony Straugheir Hutt City Panel & Paint Ltd PO Box 30780, LOWER HUTT 5040 (04) 939 3625 (04) 939 3620 huttcitypanelpaint@paradise.net.nz

ChairPERSON Gerry Bohan 121 Hokio Beach Road, LEVIN 5510 (027) 430 5124 gerry.bohan@linkup.co.nz

CANTERBURY WESTLAND

National Executive Rep Warren Flowerday Tandem Smash Repairs 1996 Ltd PO Box 10224, Phillipstown CHRISTCHURCH 8145 (03) 982 4862 (03) 982 4862 warren@tandemsmash.co.nz

ChairPERSON Bryan Easton Super Finish Panel & Paint PO Box 7552, Sydenham CHRISTCHURCH 8240 (03) 365 2324 (03) 365 0408 repairs@superfinish.co.nz

Secretary Tristan Hosie 3M PO Box 27150, Marion Square WELLINGTON 6141 (04) 384 1243 (04) 384 5580 thosie@mmm.com

Secretary Darryn Grainger Gary A Smith (1984) Ltd 384 Tuam Street, Phillipstown CHRISTCHURCH 8011 (03) 366 4730 (03) 366 0119 darryn@garyasmith.co.nz

National Executive Rep Warren Burns Gordon Officer (1991) Ltd PO Box 1099, INVERCARGILL 9840 (03) 215 9081 (03) 215 8477 gordonofficer@xtra.co.nz

ChairPERSON Steve de Graaf Harrow Motor Body Works Ltd 26 Wilkie Road, Kensington INVERCARGILL 9012 (03) 455-1773 (03) 455-2746 harrows@xtra.co.nz

OTAGO SOUTHLAND

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Secretary

Editorial Systems and processes have always been dear to my heart, they are at the core of all successful enterprises in my opinion. One of the problems with the collision repair industry in the past was that the business owner was often reluctant to relinquish control of the day to day running of his business.

Therefore it is pleasing to see more people embracing their changing industry and formalising their processes to ensure they run a true business, not one that is almost solely reliant on one person. The CRA Quality Assurance Programme is a case in point, with more people not only signing up to it, but also achieving the standard.

In this issue we feature three shops that have recently passed their first external audit, and the comments are all positive as to the value that has been added to their operations. These three shops are all different, but their operational improvements are very similar and make a compelling case for collision repair facilities to follow their footsteps, if they haven’t already.

Another exciting recent event was the presentation of the I-CAR Gold Class to Ben Thomas Panelbeaters in Hawera. Ben and his business are a great advertisement for meeting the challenges of the ever-changing collision repair industry head on. He and his staff are to be congratulated for their achievements, but instead of resting on his laurels, Ben stated that the next thing for the business was to complete their Q/A.

agreed on the proviso that the article credited the role his parents had in establishing the business and the subsequent opportunities it has offered him. I hope you enjoy reading his story.

I was recently sent an article on a motor and transport museum that has just been refurbished and re-opened in Invercargill, and a subsequent search showed a number of little known motor and transport museums that exist throughout the country. It is my intention to visit and report on a number of these, beginning with Whangarei’s Packard and Pioneer Museum in Maungatapere – well worth a visit. If you have any suggestions as to some lesser-known museums that I could visit, I would appreciate it.

This issue also contains an article, ‘Room for Improvement’ by Wayne Houghton, Axalta Coating Systems’ Performance Management Consultant for New Zealand, that is well worth the read.

This has been a fun issue to put together; speaking to so many enthusiastic people who are determined to control their own destiny is certainly enjoyable and inspirational.

As well as our loyal advertisers, in this issue we welcome several new ones. I know that I say it every issue, but it is so important to support PanelTalk advertisers in any way that you can as they are the lifeblood of this magazine.

Rex Crowther

Our Personality Profile for this issue is Dean Adamson, who took some convincing to be featured. He finally

PanelTalk 5

Ben Thomas New Zealand’s First I-CAR Gold Shop “At the risk of appearing to have formed some preconceptions about your business and your industry prior to the interview, the judges were astounded at what you presented. Your passion for what you do, the service that you deliver, the quality that you strive for, and the business that you have built was exciting for the judges to see.”

These were just some of the positive comments by Judges of the Taranaki Chamber of Commerce Business Excellence Awards 2015, as they commended Ben Thomas Panelbeating on their business success, the latest in an impressive list of awards the Taranaki business has collected.

It is not surprising then, to see this business, located in the small town of Hawera in the heart of the Taranaki region, become the first to be awarded the coveted I-CAR Gold Class standard. This recognition is another chapter in Ben and his team’s efforts to be the best they can be, and this training culture has been with the company since its inception back in 1989.

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This business is an impressive outfit from the facility itself and its presentation and cleanliness, right through to the apparent enthusiasm for the business by all of the employees. This attitude starts with business owner Ben Thomas, musician, actor, panelbeater and apparent super employer.

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It was back then that a young Ben Thomas purchased a one-man-band panelshop one street over from his current location on a main street of Hawera. Ben worked on his own for just over a year before hiring his first apprentice, one of many that would pass through his business over the years.

By the mid nineties they had outgrown their premises so Ben purchased the building across the road from his painter’s premises, and relocated in 1996. Over the years the business steadily grew, and as Ben matured so did his business outlook.

Ben credits a lot of their success to his involvement with the CRA, the amount he has learned at the annual conferences and the relationships with his peers that

Panelbeating quoted price tag of $150,000. Such an expense made the whole project uneconomic and so everything was put on hold.

As a result, Ben suggests that he must have drawn about 100 paintshop plans to minimise the impact of a sprinkler system and retain some sort of flow. He had employed the services of Seetal’s Terry Blake, who spoke with the council and the best that they could come up with was to build the booth separate from the building with a clearlite tunnel for access, which was hardly ideal.

I-CAR’s Neil Pritchard presents Ben Thomas with his I-CAR Gold Class have developed as a result of CRA meetings. He learned to work on his business as well as in it and so began developing plans to help him achieve his goals.

Around 2012 he realized that in order to absolutely control their workflow, they needed their own paintshop and so he began investigating the possibilities of building one. An early snag presented itself in the form of unclear legislation around the requirement for a sprinkler system throughout the building, a requirement that came with a

Terry had started to price this plan out when he got word from the government that the piece of legislation that required sprinklers had been overturned back to its original state. This was great news both for Ben and also the wider industry and he ordered their booth that same week.

So finally, in 2015, they doubled their footprint by extending their building at the rear to house the paintshop. They located their new spraybooth and mixing room outside the building with the entries through the rear wall, effectively giving them another approximately 70 square metres of workshop space.

Now with the paintshop in full operation they are working hard on their processes to ensure they achieve the best possible workflow through the site.

PanelTalk 7

Ben Thomas

The business premises are easy to find

Ben says he is grateful for the support he received from Resene throughout the project both in advice and training. Another benefit of his relationship with Resene has been access to the services of Wayne Houghton through Axalta, who has been fantastic as a guide through their total business performance.

In October 2015 they were appointed as a Novus agent and so now windscreens are also part of their ever developing business.

When it comes to his training philosophy, Ben said he started using a formal training plan five years ago.

“This has been really beneficial on us making the right decisions around training rather than just reacting to the need to do courses. Already for this year, our training plan was in place before the end of January and everyone knows what courses they are doing this year.”

“As far as the I-CAR Gold accreditation goes, initially we focused our I-CAR training on myself and Clint Hayman, our principle estimator, in order to get a wider range of training into the shop as opposed to having many technicians with a lower level of training. Now that we have achieved Platinum and I-CAR Gold for the facility, we will now bring the next tradesman through to Platinum as well as one more refinisher.”

He went on to add.

“You can not underestimate the importance of the highest possible level of training for your estimator. It is very much the chicken before the egg, you can not quote the repair without knowing how you are going to repair.”

8 PanelTalk

Ben Thomas Panelbeating’s dedicated team

Currently the training levels of the staff within the facility are: Ben Thomas: I-CAR Platinum – Estimating/Manager

and an I-CAR Welding tester.

Clint Hayman: I-CAR Platinum – Repairer.

Clint is also enrolled in MITO’s First

Line Management course.

Greg Thompson: I-CAR Platinum – Refinish All of their collision repair technicians have I-CAR Welding certificates and all of the tradesmen are working towards achieving I-CAR Platinum in time.

Hawera, despite being a wonderful town, is not exactly the centre of the universe and so there is an added cost to all of their training. They sometimes travel to Auckland or Wellington, as well as Palmerston North and New Plymouth for their training. A recent I-CAR initiative around the grouping of courses is proving a big help, allowing them to travel to Wellington for example and attend two courses in the one day, which is far more cost effective.

When asked for a defining moment in his business career Ben responded that it was not a moment, but the best thing that has influenced his career is communication, being able to talk to people and share experiences. He is currently a member of a tradies group with the Taranaki Chamber of Commerce, and this has proved immensely beneficial in sharing experiences with people from other industries. There have been times when he has spoken to, for example, insurance personal at CRA conferences

Panelbeating where has got an answer or information that he had been seeking for some time.

Communication is king, according to Ben, by talking and listening to people in your own or similar industries, you pick up so much information as well as being reminded that you are not alone in the issues you face.

Apart from communication, Ben points to his loyal and committed staff, including several long-term employees such as Colin Day (20 years), Clint Hayman (13 years), Janice Bewick (12 years) and Prasad Lalantha (7 years).

Ben and his entire team are justifiably proud of what they have achieved to date, and the following awards have recognized their efforts.

2012

2013

2014

2015

Bizlink Business Awards: Trades – Best Service CRA – Commitment to Training Award Bizlink Business Awards: Supreme Award – Service Trades – Best Presented Bizlink Business Awards: Trades – Best Service Trades – Individual Best service – Ben Thomas Taranaki Chamber of Commerce – Primary Industry & Trades – Commended CRA: Best Promotion of the CRA Brand Taranaki Chamber of Commerce – Primary Industry & Trades – Commended

Ben Thomas Panelbeating is a fantastic business, staffed by great people, indeed a very worthy enterprise for the I-CAR Gold Class facility standard.

The paintshop, panelshop and new lunchroom

PanelTalk 9

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10 PanelTalk

NATALIE S.

people • products • events It’s just my opinion JTAPE Customising Tape12mm X 10m

Customising tape has eight lengths of pre-cut fine line tape most whichrepairers can allowin New Zealand today are While curved patterns be their lot, albeit while still struggling reasonably happytowith created when customising to find the elusive profit, two issues seem to be regularly vehicles. causing frustration for some.

For more product information phone The first is the commonly used time schedules applied in 0800 227 422 or visit New Zealand and the apparent shortfalls in some of the www.tradesaver.co.nz process times. It seems obvious to me that there will be

either operations in any schedule, or interpretations of tasks, that will require a rethink and possible amendment from time to time.

The frustrating thing for me, though, is how a number of repairers handle this when it arises. They actually do nothing, just carry out the repair and bear the cost, then complain about it later to other repairers.

Think how much more constructive it could be if they would put the problem in writing to the insurance company concerned, and also send a copy to the CRA. Ash and the at T AofPanelbeaters Aroha All it would take is boys an outline the task with in theTesuggested test-driving their replacement courtesy thethe amended time allocation.

The point is if youcar doafter not tell recent storm passed appropriate people, how through. can they ever effect change.

PanelTalk’s sympathies go to all repairers who suffered damage flooding in the storms.

If this happened on aor regular basis, therecent CRA would have some facts to take to an insurer for discussion. Some will not agree with me, but I believe that most insurers, when presented properly with an issue, will investigate and address it if necessary. When you think about it, it is in an insurers interest to have any time schedule as robust as possible because negativity helps no one.

The second issue is one that surprises me, as the answer is so obvious. This one stems from the use of manufacturers specifications; where the requirement is to mig plug weld a replacement panel. If this panel requires replacement again, the operation is obviously far more time consuming than the original replacement.

TRAINING PROGRAM

I have heard of insurance assessors suggesting that it is the repairers issue as the assessor has a schedule that they must follow and that is it. Others have suggested that the repairer looks to the owner for a contribution, but what usually happens is the repairer just carries out the task and wears the cost.

In my opinion, the responsibility lies with the insurance company without a doubt. They insured the vehicle and so are contracted to pay for its repair if it is accident damaged. The only way that they could not be responsible is if they had carried out a detailed inspection prior to insuring the vehicle, duly noting anything out of the normal and tagging it as a possible owners contribution.

- Rex Crowther

Motor Trade Association (MTA) announces appointment of new Chief Executive

areThe going to replace the panel, along with accompanying Motor Trade Association (MTA) National President David images to support their The of assessor Storey has announced thefindings. appointment Warwick should Quinn togo back to the repairer as soon Officer as he (CEO) is able, the the position of Chief Executive forauthorising MTA. additional provided is fair and reasonable.

Mr Storey said he that was itdelighted to secure the services of such a seasoned business professional. “We’re delighted has accepted role. He bringshappens to MTA aa lot I Warwick already know that thisthis is what actually of business experience and ahandles proven track record in ofwealth the time; a responsible repairer the matter of appropriate developing and a membership organisation an waypositioning and is treated fairly. The problem is as an industry of leader.

Warwick’s extensiveto experience that a number repairers are reluctant approach the will assist MTA to deliver its vision to ‘Create Sustainable insurance company for fear of a backlash, but as I have Business Advantage’ for its no members,�

Mrpersonal, Storey says. stated many times before, insurance when Mr Quinn joins MTA with an impressive approached correctly is going to take a management negative view of career having held positions CEO of Registered Master someone for expressing an as opinion.

Builders Association and Master Build Services Ltd, General Regulatory Land Information New to The worstManager of it though, is that– these people complain Zealand, Chief Crown Property Officer – and Landwhen Information everyone but the insurance company, they New Auckland City wait Council, do thisZealand, they areValuations showing Manager a lack of–spine as they for and Regional Landcorp Limited. other repairersManager to fight –their battlesProperty for them. “I am delighted to have the opportunity to lead such a strong Quinn says. “MTA is So heremembership is the thing,organisation,� if you are notMrprepared to put a case a highlyfor respected brand with a powerful voice incopying the motor forward something that you think is unfair, the industry of New and I believe the futurehappens, for MTA as CRA as well, do Zealand not complain when nothing its members very exciting.� itand never will unlessis people know about it.

Mr Quinn will commence in his new role with MTA in August 2014.

PDR TRAINING For more information visit

www.dentman.co.nz or call Brent 027 240 6530

Again though, repairers have to stand up for themselves, as it surprises me that in a case like this, there is even a discussion around it. Repairers should go back to the insurance company, with a detailed process of how they

PanelTalk 45

PanelTalk 11

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PERSONALITY PROFILE - DEAN ADAMSON

Link Up Paints and DBNZ Head Office and Training Centre in Hamilton When approached to appear in PanelTalk’s Personality Profile, Dean Adamson was reluctant to the point it looked unlikely to eventuate. Fortunately, in the end he agreed with the proviso that the story is more than just about Dean – it is about the vision of his mother and father, or as he puts it, mum and dad (Allan and Joan Adamson). Dean insists that his story also involves a significant team of people that assist them in achieving their goals, day after day and year after year.

The Adamson story, where we pick it up, began when Linkup Paint Supplies was established in 1982 by Allan and Joan Adamson in Hamilton.

Allan had a history of involvement with the automotive paint market having been previously employed by Dulux paints working with people such as Rodger Scorgie (Autopaint Marketing) and Ken Smith (Car Colors) amongst others.

Paul Williamson, then owner of Santano Paints, offered Allan a job managing the Waikato, Bay of Plenty and Gisborne regions for Santano. After three years with Paul, Allan and Joan set up Linkup Paint Supplies and worked

from a small warehouse in Frankton, Hamilton.

In those early years, life was pretty simple. They used to make their own thinner blends, and all of the paint was acrylic lacquer and enamels. Allan used to compare notes with other well-known entities, such as Lyndsay Smits, Paul Wyatt and numerous others.

In the early years Linkup Paint Supplies distributed a number of paint brands including Fountex Paints, Santano, Special Finishes, Triton and Lusteroid to name a few.

Their first auto refinish colour system was Berger Delstar.

Eventually Berger was purchased by ICI Autocolor (now PPG), and Allan gained distribution of ICI for the Waikato and Bay of Plenty.

Allan was very successful in those early years, providing the best level of personal service to all of his customers.

Every one of those customers knew exactly what day and time Allan would come calling.

Dean enters the story in the middle of 1984, being Linkup’s first employee. Allan had been in sales for almost ten years and Dean liked the idea of selling, especially the idea of getting a company car. He was 21 at the time, and had no sales or paint experience when he joined Linkup PanelTalk 13

PERSONALITY PROFILE - DEAN ADAMSON In 1998 they were offered an opportunity to import their own brand of auto refinish into New Zealand. The brand was DeBeer Refinish from Holland, which was not a new company, but certainly new to Australia and New Zealand.

In fact the De Beer company was founded in 1910 and had been manufacturing car refinish paints since 1951.

With an eye to the future they launched the first DeBeer products in early 1999 and built a small training centre and employed Mat Peace as their technical manager.

Alan and Joan Adamson.

Paint Supplies. His first insight into why his parents were so successful came when he was given a van full of paint – hardly a “company car” and around a dozen customers, with his dad commenting, “he best go create some new customers and sales.” And that was pretty much Dean’s induction program.

Taking on their own refinish brand was probably the single most significant development within the history of their business. The growth of the DeBeer brand meant that they required a specialist group of people to manage it, so they formed a new company called DBNZ Coatings, dedicated to this task. This allowed them to grow a national chain of distributors and expand the business in many new areas.

Luckily his dad had built a solid platform and so servicing people was an enjoyable experience, so long as he provided the same basics of service that his mum and dad had provided in the first couple of years.

Now with the extra salesman on board, the business grew quickly, and in 1990 they opened a branch in Tauranga, with Dean moving from Hamilton to Tauranga to manage it. Prior to that they had serviced the Bay twice a week from Hamilton. Linkup Paints Tauranga started off with four employees including Dean, and within just two years staff numbers had tripled. It was at this time Dean acquired a 50 percent share of Linkup Paints Tauranga.

It was a busy time as Dean was playing in a band three nights a week, with the associated band lifestyle creating some challenges in the management of the growing branch.

Part of the reason for Linkup’s growth was the fact that they serviced a broad range of spray paint related industries, including automotive, industrial, wood and marine, and their product range was extensive featuring many market leading products and brands. However, the core business was always the automotive sector.

14 PanelTalk

Dean Adamson They opened a branch of Linkup Paints in Penrose, Auckland and this growth required Dean to move back to Hamilton where he took on the role of Sales Manager for Auckland, Hamilton and Tauranga.

In 2003 the Auckland branch was sold to Wairau Paint Centre and around this time Dean was promoted to National Sales Manager for DBNZ, responsible for promoting the DeBeer brand. Over the next several years Linkup expanded further, opening branches in Wellington in 2011 and Christchurch in 2013.

PERSONALITY PROFILE - DEAN ADAMSON Dean says he feels extremely fortunate to run the company that his parents established all of those years ago.

“I have travelled to many places around the world with dad and experienced many cultures, all in the name of adding value to our business and our customers.”

Dean the travelling salesman - 1987 There are two independently owned Linkup “sister” branches, one in Tauranga sold to former long time employee Jason Barry in 2005, and Auckland, set up by John Weyers in 2008.

The company, now called Linkup Group, the holding company for DBNZ and Linkup, is very much a family business, and part of the success is attributed to Brian Peden, Dean’s brother in law, who joined the company in 1992 and is the financial and internal systems manager and a fellow director. As with a lot of well-run family businesses, they have a very dedicated team, with numerous staff members that have worked for them for over 20 years and others that exceed 10 years of service.

Allan and Joan retired from an active role in the company in 2010, though both retained directorships. They attend the monthly director’s meetings but Dean still often runs things by them, seeking their advice on strategic developments.

When asked to comment on his personal life, Dean said.

“I have a wonderful wife, Andrea and a bunch of kids who all put up with me and my antics. I have a musical background, and have been especially lucky to play with numerous iconic New Zealand artists over many years.

I also enjoy lots of sports including surfing, golf and mountain biking. I also love attending the annual CRA Conference.”

(A lot of us have witnessed that! - The Editor) And regarding the industry he said, “The refinish industry has been pretty good to me over many years. I have made a lot of friends across this great country of ours, and overseas as well. I have witnessed many changes within our industry, which has at times been both exciting and challenging. Right now I see various transitions or changes taking place with insurance company directives, water base paints taking on more popularity, and certainly a demand for more service and support from the industry operators. I also like to look further in to the future to see where our industry is headed, and I foresee many changes through technology and the need for a new generation of repairers that will lead our future.”

In 2012 Dean took on the role of Linkup Group General Manager, responsible for both DBNZ and Linkup Hamilton, Wellington and Christchurch. Today DBNZ Coatings maintains its position as a successful supplier to the refinish market. In 2014 they built a brand new training centre in Hamilton, and in 2015 they became the first New Zealand refinish supplier to offer I-CAR approved training courses. While they still offer a selection of other products and services, their core focus is still the automotive and associated markets Dean, the musician - 1991

PanelTalk 15

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16 PanelTalk

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Longridge – Waipukurau Gains ‘Quality Assured’ Status When Walter Edgecombe purchased a panelshop in Waipukurau a decade ago, he had a vision that stretched far beyond what that panelshop represented.

He started by renaming it Longridge’s and just two years later, in 2008 had relocated the business to modern premises in the town’s main street and started upgrading the gear to ensure the business was equipped to carry out all modern motor vehicle accident repairs.

As impressive as this new operation was, it was only one part of Walter’s enterprise. Despite serving his time as a panelbeater, he had been involved in building trucks and motorhomes, as well as all sorts of general engineering over the years.

Making the decision to get into the engineering side in a serious way, he built an engineering and heavy vehicle repair shop a few kilometers out of town. He also factored a paintshop into the new build, to help with the increasing productivity of the panelshop.

With these two sites growing year on year, Walter realised that something had to be done to manage the consistency of performance both in the workshops and in the administration side. To this end they looked to the

CRA Q/A Programme, enrolled and then embarked on formalising the various operations of the business.

The implementation of the programme was left to Megan Campbell who passed on to Walter a steady stream of operations for him to put a formal process around.

They both say that it was a relatively easy process to implement as they already had some systems in place.

As a result, the great advantage as far as Walter is concerned is that there is now a consistency of process throughout the organization and everyone knows what is required in any given situation. Being fully compliant, backed by an externally audited Q/A system is a big help in any tendering process that the company is involved with, as tendering is common when dealing with large companies and heavy vehicle and machinery work.

As for Megan, she is confident that everything administration wise is consistent throughout the organisation, that there are robust processes in place to ensure as seamless an operation as possible in the two site business. Things like pitching for ACC accreditation PanelTalk 17

Longridge – Waipukurau Gains ‘Quality Assured’ Status

Heavy vehicle and engineering department on the left with the paintshop on the right

and the IAG H & S become easy as a result of their Q/A system.

Today Longridge’s consists of the panelshop in the centre of town, complete with the main office and reception area and an impressive showroom displaying the various items that are manufactured, often to specific order, by the engineering division. Behind this is the fully equipped panelshop, complete with a specific restoration area where high-level restorations are carried out.

The heavy vehicle repair and modification centre and engineering shop are impressive, equipped with many formers, lathes and welding equipment. At the moment

Showroom and main reception 18 PanelTalk

Steamcleaning building

this shares the same building, albeit completely divided off, as the paintshop. There may well be a new building constructed on the site in the near future to take the business to another level and accommodate the growth.

This business is a credit to Walter’s enterprise, especially for one who is so young. His enthusiasm is contagious and was demonstrated when the subject came around to his hobby of fishing. He fishes 100 kilometres offshore for Blue Nose and Bass in an 8 metre boat and when queried about the safety of such an endeavour, he responded that it is fine, “I have fishing guru Matt Watson’s last boat.”

Training is important at Longridge

Longridge – Waipukurau Gains ‘Quality Assured’ Status Examples of Longridge’s work

160lt 250lt 350lt

$1495+gst+freight $1670+gst+freight $1770+gst+freight

$1244/week $1404/week $1484/week

PanelTalk 19

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www abe.co.nz 12 20 PanelTalk PanelTalk

Bodyworks Panelbeaters - Auckland CBD Gains ‘Quality Assured’ Status This story began back at the beginning of 2000, when Bruce Rosoman and Selena Shaw purchased a small panelshop in Beaumont Street on the Auckland CBD fringe.

This was a small, somewhat scruffy building that had been a panelshop for many years under many different proprietors. But it was a start as Bruce and Selena set about establishing their name as reputable repairers.

They had only been there for three years before the landlord invoked the Demolition Clause, giving them six months to vacate the premises. Keen to stay as close as possible to the centre of Auckland, they were fortunate to find a building at 73 Wakefield Street, right in the CBD that had been a panelshop but was currently a mechanical and paint shop.

been crucial, yet despite their best efforts, business growth was moderate for a number of years, regardless of how they tried to increase their throughput volume.

Situated on a corner sight, they could immediately see the potential, and so in 2003 they opened their doors for business. With their bright green colour scheme, the business stood out and the work continued, bringing new clients with the existing ones.

After a short time they noticed they were putting more vehicles through because they planned their bookings more efficiently.

There are many advantages to having a shop right in the heart of a major city, namely the constant flow of business, however it is not without its challenges. Along with the higher inner city costs, their building is not large and is spread over two floors that are accessed from two different streets, so organisation is essential. The other problem is carparking, as the building is right on the street there is no off street parking, so they have to lease parking spots from a carpark opposite them.

Faced with these constraints, organisation has always

They always knew they had the capacity to increase their throughput volume, so after much research and analysis they installed the Daytona scheduling program, Plan-It.

The next step was the CRA “Quality Assurance” programme, something that Bruce was initially doubtful about, but Selena, having been involved in systems and processes in the corporate world, was keen to implement.

Selena admits that at first she was confused, as some of the questions had multiple criteria to check, but once she got into it, she found it relatively easy.

“I actually enjoyed the implementation process formalising, but certainly did not enjoy the commitment of time that is required,” she says.

PanelTalk 21

Bodyworks Panelbeaters - Auckland CBD Gains ‘Quality Assured’ Status

Bruce and Selena are grateful for their staff’s commitment to the Q/A programme She built up a good relationship with the progamme’s external auditor, Mike Van Uden, who she found extremely helpful. “Mike would even ring me if he had not heard from me for a while, to encourage me on to the next step, but in the nicest possible way.”

Bruce adds, “As a result of the programme, staff meetings have been formalised, and the buy in from the staff has been fantastic. It took a while, but now everyone knows how important it is, for example, to have a maintenance schedule and to report any issues with equipment to avoid a problem down the track.”

Now everything has its place, whether it is equipment, rubbish, recyclables or stock. “Being constrained as we are for space, it is essential that every bay is utilised and everything is tidy and organised all the time. If the staff were not involved with the programme, they would not so readily see the importance of space, so big ups to them for their efforts over the last two years,” says Bruce.

were awarded the CRA 2015 Commitment to Training award.

With this team, now following a more streamlined process, maximising their space, Bodyworks has finally enjoyed some good productivity gains over the last two years. The growth has been between 10 and 12 percent year on year since 2013, and they are currently on track to process around 15 percent more vehicles this year.

They now have absolute confidence in their processes, the monthly internal audits are proving extremely valuable and Selena is looking forward to their second external audit.

“This is the real check that we are on the right track, and while I am confident that we are, the reassurance will be welcome.”

Today, Bodyworks Panelbeaters is equipped and trained to carry out all collision repairs to modern motor vehicles. The staff includes three qualified panelbeaters, one of whom has just completed his apprenticeship, two qualified painters plus a prepper and one new part-time Germany-trained panel/paint technician.

In administration there is Bruce and Selena, as well as Cole Watson, who is the main estimator and customer liaison. Training has always been an integral part of the Bodyworks business plan and culture and as such they 22 PanelTalk

Bodyworks close proximity to Auckland University leads to some interesting work diversity

Bodyworks Panelbeaters - Auckland CBD Gains ‘Quality Assured’ Status Space constraints mean organisation is essential

Waterbourne Air Distribution System Infrared arches for booths and prep bays Fire suppressing system for booth, prep and tint rooms Odour Blaster for exhaust stacks PanelTalk 23

GLASURIT ALWAYS GIVES YOU A GREAT FINISH. IT CAN ALSO GIVE YOU A GREAT PRIZE. WIN BRANDING FOR YOUR SPRAY BOOTH - SHARE A PHOTO OF YOUR BEST GLASURIT WORK TO ENTER. We know you’re good at what you do, and we want to reward you for it. Share a photo of a paint job refinished in Glasurit you and your team are particularly proud of, make sure to feature ‘Ara’ the Glasurit parrot or the Glasurit logo in the image, and we’ll give the winning entry personalised branded signage for their spray booth wall.† For more information and to enter visit facebook.com/GlasuritAustralia

BASF New Zealand, Level 4, 4 Leonard Isitt Drive, Airport Oaks, Auckland, New Zealand 2022 Tel: 09 2554 300 www.glasurit.com.au †Open to Glasurit bodyshops in Australia and New Zealand only. Personalised signage is for one spray booth wall only and only the spray booth wall.

24 PanelTalk

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BASC0352/FB

18/02/2016 3:22 pm

Turners Panelbeating Gains ‘Quality Assured’ Status They say patience is a virtue, and this can certainly be said of Tyler Schwalger, who worked for Turner’s Panelbeating for 26 years before he had the chance to take a stake in the company.

It was 2004 when Tyler got his chance, prompted by owner Glen Turner’s decision to prepare to exit from his business. He offered Tyler a 50 percent shareholding with the opportunity to take 100 percent in 2007.

Tyler Schwalger

Glenn was very much a hands-on, old school repairer who had built a fantastic business through quality repairs and honest service. He was respected throughout the industry, from his peers to the insurance companies and their assessors, but he could see the writing on the wall with rapid technological advancements, and so decided to retire early and enjoy life.

Tragically, just over a year later Glenn passed away, a sad ending when one considers that he had organised his life through hard work and planning, only to have life snatched away just he was about to reap the rewards.

Glenn’s death had a huge effect on Tyler. Not only had he lost a close friend, but also his mentor. Fortunately, the first thing he had done when he completed the purchase was to join a business planning and marketing group, where he learned about goal setting, planning, KPI’s and most importantly, about accountability.

Tyler also was one of the first to sign up when Glasurit launched their Vision Plus programme. Such was the effect on Tyler’s business, that the planning board with all of his strength and weakness analysis and goal setting over the years, stays as a constant reminder of the business’s journey.

PanelTalk 25

Turners Panelbeating Gains ‘Quality Assured’ Status

View from road into panelshop area One of those goals was to get involved with the CRA, and so he was elected to the Auckland Branch committee and has served as branch chairman for the last two years.

It was through his involvement that he heard more about the CRA’s Quality Assurance programme and so initially thinking that it would be supporting the CRA and its endeavours he signed up to the programme in mid 2015.

With the help of his office administrator Carey Wilson, Tyler quickly saw that the programme had huge potential for his business. He realised, as he was approaching his mid fifties, that it was high time he began thinking seriously about the future, something that had been in the back of his mind since Glenn’s death, and that future did not include him being tied to his business 24/7. His business had to stand-alone and function without Tyler having to watch every step. Personal accountability and self-checks had to be implemented if he was to be able to do things away from the business occasionally, without feeling that he was letting his team or clients down.

The implementation of the programme fell squarely on Carey’s shoulders, and she admits there while there were frustrations, they were fortunate as they already had their Health & Safety and other compliance requirements in order. They also had some systems in place and so Carey set out to merge it all into one system, in one folder. During the process she was grateful for the help that she received from the CRA Head Office.

Now that they have completed the implementation and passed their first audit, they are already seeing benefits.

They now have a full staff meeting every morning to go 26 PanelTalk

The completed repair standard example for the panelshop to pass to the paintshop over the day’s work and this has helped productivity immensely.

Carey used to dread making a last minute call to a client to explain their vehicle wouldn’t be ready as promised.

Those calls have thankfully reduced, and now if they are necessary to make, they are made well before the vehicle is due to be completed, something customers appreciate.

All of this thanks to one regular short daily meeting.

Now any new compliance issue or audit is quickly dealt with and there are no longer grey areas to worry about.

To quote Tyler, “In this industry, at times sh*t happens, but when it does, processes help.”

Cary agrees and says maintaining the programme once it has been implemented is easy. “The comfort and assurance that it provides is a real benefit, and I am happy for each annual external audit, as it is reassurance we are on the right track.”

Turners Panelbeating is today a well-equipped collision repair facility and a new Car-O-Liner 42 is testimony to their ongoing investment strategy. It is staffed by two tradesman panelbeaters, two panel apprentices, one painter and one paint apprentice. The high ratio of apprentices is something that is dear to Tyler’s heart and the lack of apprentice training nationwide is a big concern of his.

Turners Panelbeating Gains ‘Quality Assured’ Status The business was an MTA Auckland collision repair finalist in 2010, was the recipient of Westpac “Excellence in information managements” award in 2012 and a finalist last year for the Westpac “Excellence in Strategy and Planning” award. A pleasing result for all staff as they remain committed to being the best they possibly can.

Now, as a result of the Q/A Programme, Tyler can begin to think about taking more time out of the business to pursue his passion for family, hunting, fishing and travel, content in the knowledge that the processes he and his team have implemented are award winning.

Outwork stickers to be placed on vehicles

Best Quality Colour Bank System

E mail:info@trade1.co.nz Tel:09 634 9111

PanelTalk 27

28 PanelTalk

From the chair CRA CHAIRMAN - Alan Le Noel It only just feels like my last report was due and here I am writing another one.

A couple of weeks ago I received my copy of the Blowing our Trumpet booklet. For those who have not seen it yet, you should have as it was mailed to every member.

This booklet was put together to show just how much the CRA does for its members. The idea was born from part of a session we had around the Strategic Plan.

start saving yourselves and your staff some money.

The March Roadshows have been and gone and Conference is just a few days away. These are all great opportunities for you and your team to get in amongst it with your peers, gather some new information, gain some new knowledge and of course the social aspect of these events.

The person we had in to help give us some direction on I am happy to report that after some analysis of the the Plan is part of the New Zealand Institute of Chartered numbers, that I can now say that I believe members are Accountants. What he said amazed me. He said, “I can’t turning up to the Roadshows and believe how much this Association Conference not solely because of does for its membership on such a “I can’t believe how much this C-CAR points. While this may have small income and Association does for its been the driver in the early days it membership fee”. He also membership on such a small now seems that you are all seeing commented that his membership income and membership fee” the benefits of getting along to to the Institute was about five times these events for all of the reasons the cost of ours with far less

mentioned above. Well done! benefits provided.

So, what I am getting at here is next time you ask that old chestnut, “what does the CRA do for me?” go and find that booklet, read it, then maybe you will see just how much the CRA does for you! Thanks to all involved in putting the booklet together.

For those of you going to Conference, I look forward to catching up and please don’t hesitate to come and talk to me about anything that may be on your mind. There is a lot happening in our industry right now and I am always happy to discuss anything that may concern CRA members.

Just before Christmas I had to buy a new stereo for my apartment. I wandered down to Noel Leeming on Queen Street armed with my N3 card. I talked to a service person there who pointed me in the direction of a Denon mini system which was great as I was going to have to carry it home. The system was on special at $1100.

Once I decided that this was the stereo for me we walked to the counter and I pulled out my N3 card. What happened next blew my mind. The N3 card saved me another $400 on the purchase. WOW. I then received my savings report from N3. This showed that over the twelve months the company and our staff had spent 38K through the card and we had saved 5K. That is a significant saving in anyone’s book so that’s why I can’t believe that all of the membership are not using the card.

Quote for this issue: Don’t worry about those who talk behind your back.

They are behind you for a reason.

Currently there are 241 members using their cards.

They spent $1,143,271 with savings of $276,628 over the past twelve months. Once again this is a benefit provided to the members at no cost so please get on board and PanelTalk 29

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30 PanelTalk

MEMBERSHIP LIAISON - Walter Zuber Hi all It was time for me to get into action and hit the road.

As always the lovely Hawke’s Bay and Poverty Bay showed their true colours with some lovely summer weather. It was so hot that one motel owner in Gisborne surprised me with a lovely chilled beer on arrival.

This made me quickly forget the hard working shops I had visited in this blistering heat. Work was plentiful, but as with every year, everybody is feeling it’s getting harder to make that dollar.

This was no exception in the Far North with the Northland Branch and what a great camaraderie in this Branch.

You just get the feeling the shops really enjoy talking to and helping each other to make life easier. And if it happens that one staff leaves for another shop they just get on with it, such is life – it’s part of being in business.

Mind, you don’t see many staff changes up in the Far North - wonder why?!

I was invited to the Branch Executive meeting where they were working on the year’s activities and different issues. All the I-CAR courses were discussed and some members had already enrolled but more numbers are required, it’s how to fill those courses and so on – a very active bunch of guys. And of course the upcoming golf and fishing competitions, where I have no doubts they will be well attended with a lot of good camaraderie and fun!

Health and Safety of course was the big talking point amongst the members in the two branches. A lot of shops are getting people in to help out with implementing this policy, in some cases at a huge cost. They seem to see this policy like a big wall to climb and, with this person underneath helping them climb it to get over, it will sort this out. Well, you still have to get down on the other side of the wall!? At the end, you the shop owner are responsible!

The CRA has a very good policy template especially made for our industry at reasonable cost with all the help right at your door step!

On another matter, seeing all the shops with their skills required to take care of the ever-changing industry, I’m really feeling for some shops that are missing out on insurance contracts due to some reason or another.

Amongst them is a very good core with top skills and they could be sadly lost to this industry, in either good quality work or training! In my opinion 500 small to medium sized shops throughout the country would train more apprentices than 200 big shops.

And with this whinge - keep at it, hard out!

Happy hammer and dolly - spray and dry.

Walter

CRA MEMBERSHIP INFORMATION NEW MEMBERs W D Price Panelbeaters 2015 Ltd – Auckland Francis Place Panel & Paint (1990) Ltd – Wellington C.R.S Panel & Paint - Auckland

change of owner Straight – N – Paint – Canterbury / Westland Orewa Panelbeaters (2015) Limited - Auckland

NEW ASSOCIATE AW Holder & Sons Limited – Hawkes Bay PanelTalk 31

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PanelTalk 33

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34 PanelTalk

THE PACKARD AND PIONEER MUSEUM Old Dairy Factory, SH14 Maungatapere, Whangarei

Graeme Craw Whangarei’s Packard and Pioneer Museum is the astounding result of one man’s passion as a collector of all things mechanical, which led to an avid interest in the Industrial Revolution and its effect on mankind.

This era saw developments in engineering that changed the world forever.

It was a time of innovation and invention.

The man behind the collection, Graeme Craw, was born in 1928 and began collecting in his late teens. Initially the collection was only open to viewing by appointment, but after Graeme passed away in 2007, the Craw family hired a manager and the museum was opened to the public.

In addition to his passion for collecting, Graeme was a farmer and earthmoving roading contractor, who helped build some of Auckland's most iconic roads in the 1950s including the northern approach to the Harbour Bridge and the Scenic Drive. It was during this time that Graeme amassed a large amount of earthmoving equipment and developed a great appreciation for the early earthmovers that literally shaped the face of New Zealand with the Kauri industry.

Over a period of some 60 years, Graeme accumulated the fascinating collection that makes up the museum exhibits today. This unique collection showcases the journey from horse and oxen-power to heavy machinery such as steam traction engines, bulldozers, tractors and earth-moving equipment used to build New Zealand’s infrastructure.

The collection was originally based at the family farm at Anawhata, on Auckland’s west coast, with the Anawhata Museum being set up in 1968. In 1991 Graeme purchased the old Maungatapere dairy factory just outside of Whangarei and relocated the entire collection there.

PanelTalk 35

THE PACKARD AND PIONEER MUSEUM

Today the museum is experiencing an increase in visitor numbers under the management of Fenton and Geraldine Craw, together with their dedicated employees and a number of highly valued volunteers.

Tours give visitors an interesting and engaging insight into how New Zealand was shaped into the country it is. Trained tour-guides take visitors on this journey, and along the way all kinds of subplots emerge. Tours vary in length from one to several hours, depending on the interest shown by visitors. When PanelTalk visited there was a lot of interaction from visitors with plenty of discussion and vocal trips down memory lane and this certainly added a lot to the overall experience.

The centerpiece of the collection focuses on the Packard motorcar, which was a personal favourite of Graeme’s for its precision engineering and beauty. His interest in Packards began with Dominion Motors in Auckland - the Packard agents for New Zealand – where he became

36 PanelTalk

enthused with their high quality and suitability for early New Zealand roads. New Zealand also had an abundance of Packards, as they were one of the few makes of car tough enough to stand up to road conditions here in the first part of the 20th century.

They were known as the "Rolls Royce" of the American car industry, and were the car of choice by politicians and celebrities, who often ordered custom changes. Graeme’s collection on display is reportedly the largest number of privately owned Packards in the world, with 52 in total.

The museum is not all Packards though, with plenty of other classic cars making up the impressive collection of approximately 300 vehicles.

And it is not just cars either. There are 65 classic and vintage motorcycles, and this part of the collection is enough to make any motorcycle enthusiast drool. The oldest bike is a 1904 Peugeot racer and the newest bike in the collection is a Triumph Triple (American model)

THE PACKARD AND PIONEER MUSEUM

Trident from 1973. The collection includes most of the famous makes; Norton, Rudge, Brough Superior, Triumph, Ariel, BSA, Sunbeam, Peugeot, Royal Enfield, Vincent, Harley, Indian, Velocette, Levis, Coventry Eagle and Connaught to name a few, and most of them are in a fully restored condition.

For the military buffs there are vehicles and equipment from many theatres of war from the Maori Wars through to the Vietnam era. The collection includes a huge variety of vehicles, ordnance and equipment. Among them are US army trucks and Jeep, military motorcycles used in WWII such as the light-weight Royal Enfield Flying Flea dropped by parachute behind the lines, to ordnance such as a Howitzer used by the ANZAC forces in the first world war, black powder cannons used for signaling, and a naval gun turret from the HMNZS Achilles. Both the Howitzer and the Achilles gun turret are currently undergoing preservation. There are also a number of engines on display such as the iconic, rare Packard/Merlin

Mustang engine.

The heavy equipment section is equally impressive with large steam engines, tractors and earthmoving equipment as well as fire engines, railway jiggers, agricultural machinery and virtually every type of heavy machinery imaginable.

Graeme’s passion for collecting anything from the 18th and 19th centuries resulted in many domestic items being added to the museum. These reflect the many ways in which the Industrial Revolution changed everyday life.

Examples of homemade furniture from the Great Depression of the 1930s showcase Kiwi ingenuity during the toughest economic times.

Included in the collection are saws including pit, hand and early chain saws, telephones, the first vacuum cleaners, toy cars, a vintage radio collection, early sewing machines, a politically incorrect money box collection, New Zealand

PanelTalk 37

THE PACKARD AND PIONEER MUSEUM

military uniforms from 1850–1945, goat and dog carts, early movie projectors and slide viewers, early carpenters' and saddlers' tools, working steam models and much more.

A visit to this great museum is a fantastic experience, the passion and enthusiasm of the staff and volunteers is awesome and the collection is so broad that it will appeal to a large cross-section of visitors.

Visit packardandpioneer.co.nz for opening hours, tour and other information.

38 PanelTalk

THE PACKARD AND PIONEER MUSEUM

PanelTalk 39

Room for Improvement Are we looking in the right place to start with?

By Wayne Houghton – Axalta Coating Systems, Performance Management Consultant NZ

As business owners we are often looking for improvements in the productivity and efficiency of our staff, and the focus is usually on where the work is performed, that being the workshop. The following key points are reminders of the areas we really need to improve on in order to achieve overall improvements in the business.

The current key focus is on estimating and planning before any repairs are started. Only once we are confident that we are achieving improvements in these areas we will be able to shift our focus to the repair process. If we don’t improve the front end process first it will be almost impossible to make efficiency gains in the actual repair process.

Estimating: Accurate estimating is the absolute key to an efficient workshop. Taking extra time to strip jobs to achieve a full and accurate estimate of the repair will save a lot of frustration in the workshop and will improve cycle times.

A measure of accurate estimating is the number of supplements/additionals required. Less is better!

Cycle Times: Improvement in cycle times will naturally come when the repair planning improves. This means getting the repair estimate as close as possible to 100 percent accurate before the vehicle enters the repair process. This will just take time and discipline and requires a high level of attention to detail when inspecting the damage.

Blueprinting/Repair Planning: This might sound a bit foreign but the Blueprinting and Repair Planning process is something you are probably doing to a certain degree already, but a much greater attention to the detail will help jobs flow through the repair process much smoother.

This involves whenever possible, stripping the car so you can see the entire repair picture before the repairs are started. This will allow the car to enter the repair stream and continue through without stopping.

40 PanelTalk

At this point you will be able to identify all parts required down to the clips and one-time fasteners to ensure all parts are in-house before any work is begun.

Any sublet work should be determined and most importantly any hidden damage can be identified.

Parts Process: It is no secret that one of the biggest challenges for our industry is parts. Developing a robust parts checking process will ensure any parts issues are dealt with before the repairs are started. This will require some standardised and written procedures to ensure everyone follows the same process to get a consistent outcome.

All parts should be checked and verified for correctness, any damage identified and credits for upgrades or returns dealt with in a timely manner.

Jobs Sheets/Work Instructions: Job sheets are great for outlining the repairs required and most of the detail can be included in this. At times special instructions, notes, reminders and guidelines can be written directly on the car using water soluble paint pens.

This is a great way communicate to the technicians without them having to guess or disturb the estimators to ask questions.

This can be especially helpful when dealing with existing damage or additional work required for the owner.

Estimating Re-work/Supplements: We always frown upon re-work in the panel or paint departments due to many different reasons as this is one of the biggest killers of profitability. Having to revisit estimates due to missing obvious repairs, damaged parts and other missing items can be seen as re-work in the

estimating department. Eliminating or at least minimising rework in all departments will improve everyones efficiency and reduce stress in the business

Booking Jobs: The practice of booking the bulk of jobs in on a Monday and out on a Friday must be eliminated or at least dramatically improved upon. We all know that much of this can be due to customer demand, but the customer does not run the business. Sometime the customer just has to accept that their vehicle won’t be available on the weekend and fortunately loan cars are helpful to enable us to do this at times. It is up to management to sell this concept to the vehicle owner and ensure that an even number of jobs are booked in each day and due for departure each day.



Standoblue provides accurate colour reproduction and an immaculate finish

Vehicle Check-in Process: We have all had to have those awkward conversations with owners at times when they accuse you of damaging their car while it was in your care, or forgetting the extra work they wanted done, or even not wanting to pay their excess because “it wasn’t their fault”.

Taking the time at the beginning of the process will help avoid these situations. Using a Vehicle Check-in Process will not only clarify the customers liabilities but can also identify existing damage they may not have been aware of, this also gives the shop the opportunity to up-sell on other repairs.

Whenever possible we want to avoid any miscommunication with the customer and maximise the work we get on each job.



Standox is economical, environmentally friendly and achieve optimum quality



OEM Approvals from leading car manufacturers

Conclusion: There are many reasons why all of these concepts are important to the business and there are equally as many excuses as to why they can’t be achieved. The key to it is focusing on the problems and making positive steps to improve them. You will be surprised at the difference slight improvements in these areas will make to the stress in the business.

Remember, we aren’t looking to be perfect as that is simply not achievable, we are just looking to be better.

www.rali.co.nz 0800 108 008 PanelTalk 41

42 PanelTalk

2016 MITO SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS ANNOUNCED The 2016 collision repair and automotive refinishing scholarships were awarded across two categories: The Kick Start scholarship is awarded to learners who have worked in one of MITO’s industries for less than 12 months, paying $1,000 towards the first year of study for any MITO apprenticeship or traineeship programme at Level 4 or above.

2016 MITO Business Skills scholarship recipient Rowan Cumiskey from Fleet Street Panelbeaters The fifth annual MITO scholarship programme has awarded scholarships to six outstanding individuals working within New Zealand’s collision repair and automotive refinishing industries.

MITO Chief Executive Janet Lane says “MITO is delighted to be able to award these scholarships to such a deserving pool of high calibre applicants and congratulate the 2016 recipients on their success.

We received a record number of applications this year, awarding a total number of 48 scholarships across MITO’s industries. Each one of our recipients showed a tremendous passion and desire to further their industry training. We look forward to watching their career progression and showcasing their achievements in the future.”

Developed to assist aspiring and successful graduate learners to progress their skills and knowledge, the MITO scholarships programme contributes funding towards apprenticeships, advanced technical programmes and business management qualifications. It is a key component of MITO’s commitment to supporting and promoting the huge range of opportunities available for people who are keen to further their learning and contribute to the future of their respective trades.

The recipients are: •

Bradley Smith, Absolute Spray Painting, Waiuku

•

Josh Legg, Mike Butt Collision, Whangaparaoa

•

Ryan Logan, Colin Davis Panelbeaters, Tauranga

The Business Skills scholarship is awarded to current or aspiring managers or supervisors in one of MITO’s industries and pays for the first year fees for MITO's First Line Management programme.

The recipients are: •

Jamie Westbury, Kihikihi Auto Body Repairs, Te Awamutu

•

Karl Ellis, Auckland Panel and Paint, Onehunga

•

Rowan Cumiskey, Fleet Street Panelbeaters, Devonport

PanelTalk 43

PEOPLE

PRODUCTS

EVENTS

3M Workstation Promotion 3M Automotive Aftermarket Division has officially released their Panel & Paint Workstation Promotion!

From February 15th until the end of March 2016, 3M is offering FREE workstations to both the panel shop and the paint shop. All you have to do is purchase a select bundle of goods from your 3M Authorised Distributor during the promotional period and you will receive your workstation give-away for FREE! For the painter, 3M have put together a range of paint shop items including Clean Sand™ Discs and Rolls, Trizact abrasives, Panel Wipes and an Accuspray™ Gun, purchase these goods are receive a brand new paint shop trolley valued at over $150!

all of these goodies can be stored in your brand new 3M cabinet which is valued at over $200!

Everything included in the workstation promotion includes items that the modern body shop technician uses every day; 3M has bundled together a range of products to offer solutions and meet the needs of painters and beaters and wrapped it altogether into one appealing promotion.

For more information on how to get your new workstation, please call 3M on 136-136 or follow up on Facebook at 3M Collision Repair ANZ

For the beater, check out the package which includes Clean Sand™ Rolls, Platinum™ Plus Body Filler, Cubitron™ II Cutting & Grinding abrasives and the brand new HGP Body Protection System,

Glasurit

Advanced Bodyshop Solutions Group Meeting It was a humid and gusty Auckland day when on the 16 February the Glasurit Advanced Bodyshop Solutions (ABS) group motored to Waiheke Island onboard the Fullers Sea Cat. The destination venue Waiheke Island at the beautiful Onetangi Beach.

The 27 delegates relaxed over lunch prior to preparing for the afternoon benchmarking and information session.

The meeting got underway with Boss consultant, Alan Shotton, delivering a thought-provoking presentation on the subject of Effective Labour Cost (ELC).

Alan highlighted to the delegates the sliding scale of labour cost based on the measure of hours booked against hours sold targets. The formulas presented, showed just how the slightest change in productivity will add significantly to the ELC. Many of the group expounded how disciplined use of innovative scheduling programs had achieved a lower ELC. 44 PanelTalk

Bodyshop solutions specialist, Peter Sparks, was next to the rostrum. Peter’s presentation, Foundation for Success, outlined key business fundamentals and strategies to achieve a sustained and profitable outcome for BASF customers.

The open forum included numerous topics, offshore recruitment, staff goal setting, performance reviews, organisational charts, no fault no cost accident replacement vehicles and new entrants.

Business development manager, Phil Roff, delivered outcomes of financial KPI benchmarking results across 13 repairers.

Te Motu vineyard restaurant concluded a very successful ABS Group 20 meeting.

PEOPLE

PRODUCTS

EVENTS

3M’s new Quick Grip Body Filler – available now!

Rapid adhesion to application surfaces – that’s 3M™ Quick Grip Body Filler. Quick Grip (part number 33181) is formulated to build adhesion quickly to galvanised metals, steel, aluminium, E-Coat, fibreglass and many other substrates.

Quick Grip Body Filler is easy to mix to a creamy consistency that makes for excellent spread-ability, producing a tack free surface.

3M Quick Grip Body Filler is vacuum processed ensuring less pin-holes leading to less primer and/or surfacer being used; a productivity increase and cost saving. Furthermore, the vertical hold is one of the best

in the 3M range of body fillers.

The fast building bond enables the technician to shape and sand sooner which again, increases productivity and reduces costs. There is less “roll over” or beading of the edge and therefore better feather edging enabling a smooth transition from repair to original surface.

For more information please contact your 3M Authorised Distributor, visit our website on www.3M.co.nz/aad or call 0800 362 886 to arrange a visit from your 3M Sales Representative.

Google leads

strong conference line-up The line-up for the IBIS Global Summit 2016, on 23-25 May at the Hilton Diagonal Mar in Barcelona, is almost complete with more top-level presentations joining Google, Caliber, I-CAR and Autoglass.

One of the highlights from the 2015 Global Summit was a session on consolidation, a topic which is still high on the global industry’s agenda. To continue this natural momentum, we have secured the services of Bradley Mewes, self-confessed business geek and corporate finance expert to update us on the latest direction of consolidation in collision repair.

As the Global Summit 2016 is taking place in Barcelona, IBIS is taking advantage of local expertise to explore wider issues. MAPFRE is confirmed to present on ‘A Spanish insurer in the global market’ looking at new and emerging regions, while Ignacio Suarez, manager of CESVIMAP, will be looking at regulation and claims handling in the Spanish market, as well as latest repair techniques.

Completing the roster is John Fearn, motor claims product & strategy director, at Broadspire by Crawford & Company, who is covering ‘Connected claims’ – who is connected to whom? How do third party administrators add value? And what new business models are there for the insurer/repairer relationship?

These sessions join the already announced Richard Offermann and Tanja Hufschmidt from Google Automotive, David Smith from Caliber, John Van Alstyne from I-CAR and Neil Atherton from Autoglass.

The IBIS Global Summit 2016 looks to surpass the success of previous years and leave delegates with more knowledge and business acumen to take back to their local regions.

The world class conference is only possible with the support of the forward-thinking IBIS partners: 3M, AkzoNobel, Audatex, Belron, EMM, Enterprise Rent-ACar and Fix Auto World.

IBIS Global Summit tickets are available for just £1,795 and include full access to the Welcome Reception on 23 May; access to the full day’s conference, including lunch and breaks, on 24 May; the International Dinner on the evening of 24 May; as well as the final half day’s conference and delegates’ lunch on 25 May. The price also includes two nights’ accommodation (23 and 24 May) at the conference venue – the Hilton Diagonal Mar. To confirm your place, email Nicola Keady: Nicola@ibisworldwide.com call: 00 44 (0)1296 642826 or visit our website: www.ibisworldwide.com

PanelTalk 45

PEOPLE

PRODUCTS

EVENTS

MEGUIAR’S ULTIMATE BLACK TRIM SPONGES Make your exterior trim and plastic look like new with Meguiar’s Ultimate Black Trim Sponges.

Meguiar’s Ultimate Black features break through UV clear coat technology to provide extended durability and protection. Meguiar’s Ultimate Black Trim Sponges are great for mirror covers, roof racks, door handles, grills, windscreen wiper cowlings and more.

Meguiar’s specially formulated Ultimate Black creates a rich darkness and shine, dries fast and does not leave a non-greasy residue.

Meguiar’s Ultimate Black is perfect for restoring the colorto faded, weatherworn exterior trim and moldings.

For more information on the above products freephone 0800 227 422 or visit www.smitsgroup.co.nz or www.meguiars.co.nz

HILTON DIAGONAL MAR BARCELONA 23-25 MAY 2016

www.ibisworldwide.com

To book your place at the IBIS Global Summit 2016, contact Nicola Keady on +44 (0) 1296 642826 or email nicola@ibisworldwide.com

PARTNERS

W O R L D

46 PanelTalk

PEOPLE

PRODUCTS

EVENTS

Carmakers recall five vehicles million cars Carmakers toto recall five million •

involved in the recalls will come later in a filing with the government, the company said.

Carmakers will replace the computers at no cost to owners, according to documents.

The announcement comes in the middle of a recall crisis involving Takata Corp air bag inflators. Over 50 million vehicles have been recalled worldwide with FAIRFAX AUSTRALIA about 24 million of them in the US - the largest car A fault foundfound in computer components that thatrecall in US A has faultbeen has been in computer components control up history. to 5 million airbags in vehicles control up to 5 million airbags in vehicles worldwide. worldwide.

Another problem has developed with automotive air Takata's inflators can explode with too much force, developed automotive bags, this one resulting in recalls of up toshrapnel five bags,Another this oneproblem resultinghas in recalls of upwith to five million airblowing apart a metal canister and sending million vehicles worldwide. vehicles worldwide. into the passenger compartment. At least 11 people from the problem, and 139 have Continental Automotive Systems says in documentshave fileddied withworldwide the US government that moisture can Continental Automotive Systems says in documents been injured. get inside its air bag control computers, causing the power supplies to corrode and fail. If that filed happens, with the US that moisture getor they could deploy without a crash. airgovernment bags may not inflate in a can crash inside its air bag control computers, causing the power In the documents, Continental says its problem first The to documents, posted Thursday byair thebags US National Highway Traffic Safetywhen Administration, supplies corrode and fail. Ifon that happens, surfaced in January of 2008 it analysed a say Continental will notify carmakers, who will recall cars dating as far back as 2006. may not inflate in a crash or they could deploy without malfunctioning control unit that was removed from a a crash.

Mercedes vehicle.

Already Honda, Fiat Chrysler and Mercedes have issued recalls.

Honda reported two injuries from

the problem

The documents, posted on Thursday by the US The company continued to investigate, and in early National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 2011, Continental was told of two inadvertent air bag say Continental will notify carmakers, who will recall deployments Mercedes and Fiat Chrysler vehicles.

Continental says less than two million of the affected vehicles areinin the US. Additional cars manufacturers dating as far back as 2006.

Last Honda two malfunctions in crashes involved in the recalls will come later in ayear, filing with reported the government, the company involving 2008 Accords, and US safety regulators said.

Already Honda, Fiat Chrysler and Mercedes have began investigating.

Carmakers will replace the computers at no cost to owners, according to documents. issued recalls. Honda reported two injuries from The announcement comes in the middle of a recall crisis involving Corp air bag inflators. the problem.

Continental saidTakata it knows of more than 600 parts that Over 50 million vehicles have been recalled worldwide aboutdue 24 to million of them in the US werewith returned the problem. the largest recall USmillion history.

Continental sayscar less thanintwo of the affected vehicles are in the US. Additional manufacturers Object 1

Takata's inflators can explode with too much force, blowing apart a metal canister and sending shrapnel into the passenger compartment. At least 11 people have died worldwide from the problem, and 139 have been injured.

In the documents, Continental says its problem first surfaced in January of 2008 when it analysed a malfunctioning control unit that was removed from a Mercedes vehicle.

The company continued to investigate, and in early 2011, Continental was told of two inadvertent air bag deployments in Mercedes and Fiat Chrysler vehicles.

Last year, Honda reported two malfunctions in crashes involving 2008 Accords, and US safety regulators began investigating.

Continental said it knows of more than 600 parts that were returned due to the problem.

- AP

AEROSOLS FOR PROFESSIONALS

027 630 3691 info@u-pol.co.nz

U-POL.COM PanelTalk 47

REGIONAL ROUNDUP Wellington Branch Hi All I find myself sitting in my office, late afternoon, its 28 degrees and not a breath of wind, can’t be Wellington.

Not only that but it’s been like this, on and off for weeks now. What a great run of weather we’ve had and what a difference it seems to make to the general happiness of my staff and customers. You can’t beat the sun on your back for making you feel good. Let’s hope our beloved assessors manage to sample it too.

Workflows in our region, from my information, are very good with some repairers booked up for a month and more. Being booked out for that long is a double edged sword as turning away a customer who is in real need will never go well. It is either a feast or a famine.

Once again an insurer (Tower) is asking for health and safety information similar to the IAG requests and once again the benefit of having signed up for the CRA scheme has shown its value, with most of the required information close at hand. There will be more of this to come.

I am looking forward to the branch AGM as we are likely

to have one or two new members turning up, always good to see a new face.

A bit of useless information came to hand the other day, we had our paint rep in for a couple of days for some training and he was wearing one of these fit bits. At the end of a routine day walking around the paint shop and spraying he told me he had walked 12,000 steps, covered 7.3 km and lost 2363 calories. Admittedly his legs are little shorter than most but that is still impressive.

So that would explain why the spray painters of our trade are all lean and toned as opposed to the poor old panelbeater who seems to be stuck in one spot and doesn’t move around so much, yeah right.

Cheers Tony Straugheir

Canterbury/Westland Branch bit up and down. Some guys are busy and some are not.

It's not far from the AGM and Roadshow season, with the first one next week following this report. This year I am hoping to get another keen bunch of guys on the branch executive. I'm sure I will, however I do hope those that put their hands up to be involved actually do mean it and make an effort to come along to the meetings and include themselves in the process of running the branch. It's no good for anyone if you say you want in, then don't follow through with that commitment. Harsh, maybe, but honest!

Greetings from the mainland Gosh it's nearly Easter, the autumn colours are almost upon us (well just about) and even though we are still getting some really really hot days, the crap stuff can't be far away. Add into the mix we are getting those bastard earthquakes again just to add to stress levels …. Neat!

However, lets remain positive and look at the work flows n stuff around the region. To be fair they are currently a 48 PanelTalk

The health and safety monster is rolling on with all the major companies requiring repairers to examine their H&S systems or review them at the very least. We may complain about this, but it's the way of the world and I'm hoping that all our people are embracing this change and getting themselves in order. It will pay dividends in the long term.

Cheers Bryan Easton

Northland Branch Hi All, from Sunny Northland and 270 (This was written a few days before Winston's pending arrival in Northland the cyclone that ravaged Fiji in February), A great start to the year with work volumes, with all shops seemingly busy. Welcome back to all CRA members, we hope everyone enjoyed the holiday season, it is especially important that workshop staff and business owners recharge and get a break in this busy time.

A few people from the Northland Committee are looking forward to a trip throughout the region to meet existing and potential panel/paint shop owners in April or May. Please have any ideas and questions ready.

We are looking forward to the CRA National Conference in Dunedin and hope that many Northland members are going. Our annual Fishing Competition is planned for April, by now you will have seen the entries - it's open to all, any ideas or queries please email Northland CRA on northlandcra@hotmail.co.nz. As always it was great to see Walter (MLO Boy) at our last Committee meeting.

The AGM is coming up so hopefully we have some new faces for our committee. The more input, the better our region will be run and successfully retain the number one in regional bank balances (thank you committee), the challenge has been set to other branches, keep up!

Best wishes from Northland

“A great way to keep some fine Northland Snapper chilled�

140409_SAL_NZ_Panel Talk Ad_1-3 Pg_Jul14_FINAL.indd 1

7/07/14 1:46 PM

PanelTalk 49

Otago/Southland Branch Hello from the deep south Well it has been a flying start to the New Year with almost all shops reporting very heavy workloads. This could have something to do with Chinese New Year and the huge number of overseas visitors travelling in our region at this time of the year!

Look forward to seeing you all in Dunedin - keep up the good work.

Cheers Warren Burns

Staffing is seemingly still an issue for most, trying to attract experienced staff to our industry is getting more and more difficult.

It is that time again for the annual Conference so come on get in behind our industry, it is right at our doorstep this year, so there are no excuses. Get your registration forms in now, as we can all benefit from these great speakers we have on board and the displays of the latest technology - a must.

Auckland Branch Auckland seems to be basking in work at present so hopefully this is a sign of the year ahead.

The biggest problem is still the lack of qualified staff required to get all this work done, and unfortunately it seems to breed a horrible poaching habit. I understand that some companies are desperate but I personally really struggle with this and I’m sure those that do this, would not like it being done to them, that’s for sure, so hopefully common sense prevails.

Anyway, enough of that. By the time this goes to press we would have had our annual fishing competition, so all going well the weather will have been kind to us and the fish are plentiful. I think this is the fifth year that we have run the competition and we have always had a reasonable turnout, so I’m hoping for the same again this year.

The Auckland AGM is on the 14th March and I’m also looking forward to catching up with as many as I can on the night. My hope is that everyone is feeling vocal so that we can get some great ideas from the membership on what issues are concerning them the most. As I have said before on several occasions, we need your input so we can focus on the issues that are concerning you guys.

If you don’t feel comfortable speaking out in a crowd then please have a chat to one of the committee afterwards or at any stage really. We are all VERY interested in your opinions.

It is sad to see a few more shops shut down already this year for a few different reasons, but we have all known this would happen for some time now and it is slowly making an impact. We all know that December, January and February tends to be the toughest period of the year with less productive days to be able to make a dollar but the bills still need to be paid.

Rex’s comments in the last PanelTalk opinion article are so true! If you didn’t get a chance to read it then please do because it is so true. It is very tough to make a profit in this game so make sure you keep an eye on your KPI”s and understand your shops habits.

Get fishing 50 PanelTalk

All the best for now.

Brent Mackay.

NEW ZEALAND

Technical REPORT

in the name of aerodynamic efficiency So what does Aerodynamics mean ?

This is the study (or dark art to many of us !), of moving gases - in this instance air, over a body in motion - and how that will effect that body's movement through the flow.

Noise Vibration Harshness (NVH) qualities, improve performance, increase fuel efficiency and be aesthetically pleasing.

The best aerodynamic designs will make the vehicle more stable (especially at higher speeds), enhance

So - lots to think about there !!!

Aerodynamics 101 -

So, in the beginning :-

PanelTalk 51

NEW ZEALAND

Technical REPORT

in the name of aerodynamic efficiency Then came :-

To today and tomorrow :One of the biggest innovations in everyday passenger vehicles being produced today is the advent of what are termed "Active Aerodynamics" - imaginative terminology for technical features that are able to change the aerodynamic profile(s) of a vehicle "on the fly".

Common examples of active aerodynamics are grille shutters, air curtains and adjustable ride height These features are becoming increasingly common across a wide variety of vehicle body styles, from sedans, utilties to SUV’s, and from various vehicle makers, such as General Motors, Ford, Chrysler, Subaru and BMW.

Grille shutters

2015 Dodge Ram 1500 Rebel active grille shutters

Located behind the radiator or bumper intake grille(s), the shutters are operated electronically by sensors that detect speed and heat - closing at higher speeds to 52 PanelTalk

"seal" off the front of the vehicle, increasing aerodynamic efficiency by enabling the vehicle to push through the air more efficiently.

NEW ZEALAND

Technical REPORT

in the name of aerodynamic efficiency Air Curtains

These are vertical or horizontal slots or vents typically located on the outer corners of the front bumper face that channel air flow closer to the vehicle body, around the front wheels, minimizing drag and increasing fuel efficiency - an added benefit is realised by cool air being ducted over braking components etc, thereby reducing heat build up and component wear.

OTHER AERODYNAMIC FEATURES :-

Air Breather Wheel housings and wheels generate approximately 30% of the vehicle’s entire aerodynamic drag.

The Air Breather is an air outlet behind the front wheeel that lowers turbulence in the wheel housings and breaks down the air swrls that form there.

It channels the air current on the front wheels and thus not only reduces the air flowing into the rear section of the wheel housings - but also the adverse effect of negative pressure on the side walls.

As a consequence, the aerodynamic drag is lowered while fuel consumption and CO2 emmissions and also effectively reduced.

PanelTalk 53

NEW ZEALAND

Technical REPORT

in the name of aerodynamic efficiency Underbody trays, cowls and diffusers It wasn't so long ago that you could look at the under carriage of a vehicle and clearly see all of the suspension components, exhaust system, X members and a myriad of brackets and fittings, as well as the back side of the bumper components and frames - Thats all changed in recent times - and not just for higher end vehicles.

This type of aerodynamic enhancement can be done comparitively cheaply, as these components are typically made from inexpensive plastic materials.

We often have to scratch our heads when looking to jack up a late model vehicle and think carefully about where we can safely place the trolley jack and stands so as not to damage plastic trays and ducting.

Aerodynamic principles have come into play here also - a smooth underside promotes smooth, undisturbed air flow that reduces drag.

Range Rover Evoque

Air blade The smaller the wake, the lower the level of turbulence created behind the rear. the air blade is a sharp-edged extension of the C pillar that seperates the air flow and

thus reduces the wake behind the wheel.

The aerodynamic drag decreases - and with it so do both fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.

Aero wheel rims The wheel housing on a vehicle plays a large role in the overall amount of drag experienced and the wheels themselves influence vehicle-specific drag due to the air turbulence they create.

54 PanelTalk

Resistance-optimised Aero wheels in turbine wheel design reduce this effect by countering this turbulence effectively, channelling the air along the sides of the vehicle and reducing wind resistance. The result is lower consumption.

NEW ZEALAND

BRONZE RECOGNITION ACHIEVERS Congratulations to the following people who have achieved Bronze Recognition recently: Craig Allen Vincent Prasad Roy Willmott

Gordon Taylor Dinesh Prasad Heng Wong Jeff Hocking Kevin Martin Mark Piskulic Pera Palmer Russell Beynon Simon Stratford Tony Smith Wayne Jones Regan Huston

Airflowe Ltd Greenpark Panel & Paint (1997) Hauraki Panel & Paint Mt Wellington Hesson & Bowry Collision Centre Honda Cars East Auckland IAG NZ Limited IAG NZ Limited IAG NZ Limited IAG NZ Limited IAG NZ Limited IAG NZ Limited IAG NZ Limited IAG NZ Limited IAG NZ Limited John Pfeifer Panelbeating Ltd

Mark Jones Allan Carr Russell Wells James Conner Grant Avery Billy Preston Jeremy Linton Matthew Vernall Tony Johnston Adam Devoy Russell King Riaan Twine Chris Drubé

John Simeti

Mark Jones Collision Repairs Moselle Panel & Paint Ltd Moselle Panel & Paint Ltd Mt Maunganui Collision Repairs Rod Wood Ltd Shepherd & Kime Ltd (Antigua St) Shepherd & Kime Ltd (Antigua St) Straight - N – Paint Sun City Panel & Paint Limited Tony Fabish Panelworks Tower New Zealand Ltd Wakefield Panelbeaters Ltd Wayne Scott Panelbeaters & Spraypainters Wright Carpainters & Panelbeaters

NEW ZEALAND

SILVER RECOGNITION ACHIEVERS Congratulations to the following people who have achieved Silver Recognition recently: Christopher Ballantyne Jason Bovis Kevin Yeo Logan Owens Tony McAlees Wentzel Meiring Shane MacKenzie Vincent Prasad Gordon Taylor Greig Jordan

Ballantyne Collision Repair Centre Ballantyne Collision Repair Centre Ballantyne Collision Repair Centre Bodyworks Panelbeaters Ltd Boss Panelbeaters 2000 Ltd Eastern Suburbs Panel & Paint Endless Panel Repairs Greenpark Panel & Paint (1997) Hesson & Bowry Collision Centre Jordan Panelbeaters Ltd

Darren Lee Leon Halverston Boyd Mitchell Mike Maitland Bryan Woodhams Paul Downes Kevin Hurley Greg Hieatt Cameron Payne

Lee & McMillan Panelbeaters Longley Panelbeaters Ltd Mark Jones Collision Repairs Newport Panel & Paint Ltd Stream Group (NZ) PTY Ltd Thames Panelbeaters Tony Gordon Panelbeaters Vittle Panelbeaters Ltd Whangaparaoa Collision Repairs

PanelTalk 55

COURSE DATES BY REGION TO ENSURE YOUR PLACE IN THESE COURSES PLEASE REGISTER EARLY Northland Tauranga Christchurch

SPS9A 11 May DAM05 19 April CFR01 14 April WCS04 11 May SPS9A 19 April SPS05 28 April FFR01 12 JULY CYC01 13 July WKR01 3 May

FCR01 3 May Auckland – North Hawkes Bay WCS01 10 MAY

WCS04 12 May FFR01 10 May DAM05 26 July DAM06 24 May ADH01 10 May SPS9A 26 July DAM11 24 May RTI01 18 May

REF07 25 May WCS04 24 May Palmerston North NEW16 25 May WCS01 24 May ALT03 26 May ALI01 22 June RTI01 26 May NEW16 20 April

FFR01 15 June RTI01 20 April Auckland – South ADH01 15 June DAM11 5 July

REF03 16 June ADH01 5 July DAM05 12 April SPS05 21 July FFR01 27 July SPS9A 12 April DAM06 27 July DAM06 13 April nelson DAM11 13 April New Plymouth SPS05 19 April CRA01 20 JULY SPS05 20 April ALI01 6 July ALT03 25 May NEW16 25 May Wellington CRA01 1 June WCS04 15 June WCS04 12 April WCS01 15 June DAM05 13 April APR01 23 June SPS9A 13 April CFR01 23 June WKR01 4 May CYC01 28 June FCR01 4 May Virtual Courses SPS05 12 July ALT03 30 June (LIVE Online) SPS05 13 July NEW16 30 June CFR01 7 July Hamilton TBC 16 May

Balclutha TBC 17 May DAM11 21 April TBC 18 May ADH01 21 April CYC01 18 July TBC 19 May ALI01 11 May FFR01 28 July CRA01 2 June DAM06 28 July WCS04 14 June WCS01 14 June ALT03 21 June NEW16 21 June The above courses provide a wide variety of topics and locations FFR01 26 July however with the increasing development of I-CAR model specific DAM06 26 July courses being generated; additional courses may be added to this schedule. If you require a specific course not detailed above please

contact I-CAR NZ as if numbers dictate these can be provided.

56 PanelTalk

COURSE DATES BY REGION PLEASE NOTE: Finalisation of these courses is still subject to sufficient numbers registering so travel and venues can be arranged.

For all course details please refer to the I-CAR NZ website www.i-car.co.nz To register and pay by credit card online go to www.i-car.co.nz or call I-CAR NZ on 07 8470218 To pay by Direct Credit - I-CAR NZ Trust, ASB Bank 12 3152 0180972 00 Pay by Credit Card: Phone I-CAR NZ on 07-8470218 Post your cheque to: I-CAR NZ, PO Box 9208, Waikato Mail Centre, Hamilton 3240.

COSTINGS PER COURSE: Non CRA members CRA members 1⁄2 day courses - $328 (+ GST) 1⁄2 day courses - $276 (+ GST) Full day courses - $525 (+ GST) Full day courses - $478 (+ GST) SPS05 - $662 (+ GST) SPS05 - $601 (+ GST) PLEASE NOTE:

Finalisation of these courses is still subject to sufficient numbers registering so travel and venues can be arranged.

2016 SUPPORTER PACKAGE: I-CAR NZ is once again offering the ‘Supporter Package’ for 2016. This package comprises 3 redemption vouchers which can be used for any of the half-day courses from the 2016 programme.

At $810.75 (inc GST) for a member, $962.55 (inc GST) for a non-member, this offer is extremely good value and is a great way to either get started into, or maybe complete any remaining courses required for the Bronze, Silver or Platinum Recognition Packages.

To take advantage of this offer please forward your details along with payment to I-CAR NZ, PO Box 9208, Waikato Mail Centre, Hamilton 3240, or contact the I-CAR NZ National Office on 07-847 0218 with credit card details. I-CAR NZ will issue a receipted invoice.

AUTOMOTIVE STEEL MIG WELDING QUALIFICATION: This validated qualification assessment allows participants to demonstrate their welding skills by measuring a technician’s ability to perform ten welds in both the vertical and overhead positions using 0.75mm and 1.6mm thickness steel coupons. The steel thickness and weld configurations reflect the joints most commonly used on today’s vehicles.

To register for this qualification please contact I-CAR NZ for a registration form.

The cost per person is $407.00 (+GST).

Two or more people registering at the same time brings the cost for the second and subsequent people down to $345.00 (+GST) each.

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St John - Here for Life 10% discount on First Aid Level 1, Level 2 and Refresher courses St John would now like to offer CRA members a 10% discount* on First Aid Level 1, Level 2 and Refresher courses.

1 C–CAR point per attendee, to a maximum of 2 points are available per shop upon completion of a first aid course.

Discount available by either phoning 0800 ST JOHN and quoting CARE Number: COL07071 or booking via http://bookacourse.stjohn.org.nz/start/st/collisionrepair *Available in your local community now. Limited spaces.

CRA Membership Group Scheme for Compliance (2016) In order to assist CRA members to comply with legislation Terry Blake (TB) and Dangerous Goods Compliance (DGC) offer a Nationwide Inspection schedule, Inspection visits are coordinated and scheduled on a yearly basis.

Services offered by Terry Blake (TB) Hazardous Area Compliance Consultant, Testing and Certification Includes airflow and air quality testing, compressed air testing.

Combustion certification, IQP certification and Electrical reinspections Services offered by Dangerous Goods Compliance (DGC) Location Test Certificates, Approved Handler Certificates, Stationary Container Certificates and HSNO Compliance training CONTACT:

Terry Blake

Ph: 0274 473382

Fax: 09 2763504

Email: terryblake@xtra.co.nz

Dangerous Goods Compliance Ph: 09 2575790 Fax: 09 257 5791 Email: aaron@dgcompliance.co.nz

Annual Schedule for both TB & DGC March/April Northland, North Shore, Northland Wellington, Horowhenua, Taranaki, May/June South Auckland, Pukekohe, Manukau, Nelson Marlborough, West Coast, Canterbury July/August West Auckland, Onehunga, Poverty Bay, Hawkes Bay, Wairarapa, Manuwatu. Central North Island Sept/Oct Coromandle, Bay of Plenty, Rotorua, Waikato, Otago, Southland, East & Auckland City

PLEASE BOOK AN ANNUAL INSPECTION FOR: Company Name Site Address Contact Person Phone 58 PanelTalk

Fax

Terry Blake - 027 4473 382 or Aaron - 09 257 5791

Reliable Reliable – 20 years of Permahyd®!

– 20 years of Permahyd®!

The Permahyd Basecoat system is celebrating its 20th anniversary. Thanks to its excellent coverage, low material consumption and precise colour matching, paint shops all over the world value our The Permahyd Basecoat system is celebrating its 20th anniversary. Thanks to its excellent coverage, VOC-compliant Permahyd Basecoat 280/285 – the most reliable system there is apart from low material consumption and precise colour matching, paint shops all over the world value our Permahyd Hi-TEC Basecoat 480.

VOC-compliant Permahyd Basecoat 280/285 – the most reliable system there is apart from Permahyd Hi-TEC Basecoat 480.

Spies Hecker – simply closer.

Spies Hecker – simply closer.

An Axalta Coating Systems Brand An Axalta Coating Systems Brand

SH_UK_Permahyd_210x297_master.indd 1 SH_UK_Permahyd_210x297_master.indd 1

Spies Hecker • Unit 1 Quadrant Park • Mundells • Welwyn Garden City • AL7 1FS • www.spieshecker.co.uk Spies Hecker • Unit 1 Quadrant Park • Mundells • Welwyn Garden City • AL7 1FS • www.spieshecker.co.uk

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