Auto Channel 43 by Via Media

ISSUE 43 FEBRUARY 2022

THE VOICE OF THE NEW ZEALAND AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY

Check out the new look Navigator Pro award-winning electronic catalogue system.

WINNER 2017 MOST INNOVATIVE TRADE CATALOGUE/ E-COMMERCE SOLUTION

WINNER 2019 MOST INNOVATIVE TRADE CATALOGUE/ E-COMMERCE SOLUTION

Talk to your Repco rep for more details.

Next Gen braking from CoolDrive COOLDRIVE AUTO PARTS IS TARGETING MARKET LEADERSHIP IN BRAKES, AIMING A BROAD RANGE OF GLOBAL BRANDS AT THE LOCAL MARKET FOR STREET, PERFORMANCE, AND TRACK VEHICLE APPLICATIONS Bremtec Brakes Headlining at CoolDrive are the Bremtec brake pad and rotor ranges. Bremtec offers more than 4000 part numbers covering more than 21.5 million cars, delivering cleaner, quieter, and safer braking. Bremtec’s Trade-Line brake pads contain the advanced Ceramic+ formulation, offering significantly less dust and reduced wear, while still offering an optimum balance of comfort and performance. Pro-Line Ceramic+ brake pads are Bremtec’s heavy-duty brake pads. An advanced friction formulation delivers improved stopping distances and a longer life in heavy-duty use, while eliminating unwanted brake dust. The Endure-Line 4WD Ceramic+ brake pads have been engineered specifically for 4WDs and SUVs to ensure effective braking, even under off-road driving conditions. Bremtec’s Euro-Line is its range of brake disc rotors for European vehicles designed to run Ceramic+ pads, offering OEM matched quality for less. Heavy-duty options are also available. Evolve Performance+ brake pads offer unrivalled braking for spirited street driving, with the Ceramic+ friction undergoing a unique compression process engineered for a superior pedal feel and fade resistance.

The Evolve F2S® Street Performance highcarbon brake disc rotors are engineered to deliver superior braking characteristics in high-demand driving conditions. Project-Mu Originating in Japan, Project-Mu is a specialist manufacturer providing top-quality braking products, including OEM street replacement pads and discs, performance brake upgrade kits, right through to world-class motorsport pads.

combination of quality, innovation, and safety. All of Fremax’s brake disc rotors are high-carbon as standard, with a patented groove on the surface face for faster bedding in. Hulk 4X4 CoolDrive’s own Hulk 4X4 range offers a big performance boost through big brake upgrade kits featuring forged six-piston front calipers for slotted and dimpled rotors, rear brake drum to disc conversions, pad and rotor upgrades, and dual diaphragm brake boosters. Stolz Wrapping up the main product lines are the Stolz FEX and SFZ premium performance braking system upgrades for a host of applications, including general and sports driving. For more information, visit cooldrive.co.nz.

Brembo Brembo brake discs and pads are available in LowMetallic, NAO, and Xtra ranges. Brembo matches the ideal friction material to each application, delivering high performance and minimal noise. Bosch The Bosch braking range at CoolDrive is headlined by the Blue-Line range of brake pads, perfect for Australian, Asian, and European vehicles. Fremax Reinforcing CoolDrive’s braking credentials are the Fremax brake discs and drums, which offer an ideal

AUTOMOTIVE DIAGNOSTIC SCAN TOOL

Features • Fast and easy operation with intuitive layout • Compact yet very rugged industrial tablet • Smart online software updates directly on the tablet • 12 and 24 Volt system coverage • Quick system search automatically scans all the vehicles systems • Module programming and coding • Key programming, adas calibration and injector coding • Service indicator reset, pre/post scan reporting • Adaptations, recording and DPF regeneration • J2534 pass-thru supporting J2534 programming and diagnostics • Data log and feedback system • Wired vehicle connection for ultimate reliability • Made in Korea • 2 Yr. free software updates

Specifications • Powerful Octa-core processor with Android 9 OS • 8” Full HD LCD display (1920 x 1200) • Touch screen with 3 hard keys (Power, Volume + & -) • 8 Megapixel auto-focus camera with led flash • Loud speaker, microphone and standard audio jack • Rechargeable 3200 mAh Li-Ion battery • Operating voltage 9 – 30v • Ambient lift, proximity, gyroscope and accelerometer sensors • 3 USB ports (1 x USB 2.0 and 2 x USB 3.0) • RJ45 Ethernet, Wi-Fi 802.11 A/B/G/N and Bluetooth 4.2

Z5 with OBD-II Adaptor Only

Z5 with Premium Adaptor Kit

(Z5-SO)

(Z5-CTK)

7,650

8,850

Equipment Specialist Contacts: National Sales Manager National Technical & Training Manager

0800 237 726

Kevin Odgers

027 279 1204

Bruce Francis

027 494 2802

National Diagnostics Sales Manager

Dean Guilford

027 643 1608

Equipment Spares

Scott Townsend

027 246 3640

Auckland North & Northland

Cameron Pausina

027 475 2224

Auckland East & South

Dave Miller

027 492 8962

Waikato & Bay of Plenty

Tim Marshall

027 282 3966

Lower North Island

Justin Mills

027 494 7186

South Island

Brent Grindley

027 216 9173

Contents

From the Ed.

22 Next gen braking

Camaro steps up to Supercars

Inside view on the best batteries

The graphene advantage

Scan tool upgrade

Treadway’s tips on tyre bays

Car news

Feature car: Trick pony

Tech feature: Carbon fibre

Product profiles

Parts Connection gets personal

Supplier directory

o, we have gone back into a red traffic light Covid zone. Once again, businesses are wondering what this may mean. Some people — especially those who cleared the supermarkets of toilet paper yet again — think the red traffic light is in effect the same as lockdown, or very close to it. Others are looking at the regs, and seeing it only really rules out large gatherings of people. When it was introduced, the red traffic light was “to protect our health system from an unsustainable number of hospitalisations” and to protect at-risk people. Intensive care units have many spare beds yet the whole country has gone red at the first indication of Omicron in the community — even though symptoms are mild and we’ve almost all been vaccinated. Some level of confusion is understandable. I’ve been waiting to see health systems anywhere ‘overwhelmed’ by Omicron’s virulence. The only pressure so far seems to come not from Omicron cases but from a lack of health staff due to the unvaxxed losing their jobs and other staff having to stand down for a week or longer because they have tested positive. We all want to do the right thing by staff and customers but this means the biggest threat to our trade could once again be our response to the virus; if Omicron takes off we could see staff shortages due to the requirement to self-isolate.

Ian Parkes, Editor

Auto Channel is distributed 11 times per year. To receive your free copy or to change your address, simply visit autochannel.co.nz.

Add protection through filter upgrades RYCO’S NEW XR 4X4 FILTRATION UPGRADE KITS ADD VALUE AND EXTRA PROTECTION TO HARDWORKING 4X4S wners of 4x4s will most likely have chosen their 4x4 for the comfort and safety of their family, to get out and enjoy the great outdoors, or as a vital tool for their work — four great reasons to want to protect their investment. Hard working 4x4s can be susceptible to carbon build-up within the intake, behind the valves, and even on the pistons, caused by exhaust gases combining with oil vapour from the crankcase ventilation system — all part of the factory emission control system. This can severely impact fuel economy, power, and performance of these vehicles.

Additionally, water contamination in a vehicle’s fuel system can be very detrimental to engine health. When emulsified in fuel, water can lead to a number of engine-harming issues, including corrosion or micro-bacterial growth within the fuel system, both of which cause decreased levels of durability and performance. If not dealt with they can lead to severe damage to both the engine and fuel system. Prevention is obviously better than a cure, as any operation to manually remove carbon is not a five-minute job, and the cost and labour involved in replacing damaged engine parts can be significant.

Ryco already supplies RVSK Kits to facilitate the fitting of a Catch Can, which prevents the sludge-forming gases from the crankcase entering the intake by trapping the material in the base of the filter. Ryco also offers an optional fuel water separator to separate contaminants before they enter the engine. These kits have now been upgraded in the new XR 4x4 Filtration Upgrade kits. The complete XR upgrade kits include the Ryco Fuel Water Separator and Crankcase Filters, and all the vehicle-specific fittings, including hoses, clamps, and brackets needed to make installation that much easier. To find a vehicle specific filtration upgrade kit or Catch Can for a specific vehicle, visit ryco.co.nz/ Crankcase-CatchCan. To learn more about Fuel Water Separators, see ryco.co.nz/Fuel-Water-Separator-Kits. For more information on Ryco products visit ryco.co.nz.

Ryco’s 4x4 Filtration Upgrade Kits protect against contaminants that lead to engine damage and decreased performance, giving you the confidence to push your 4x4 to the limit. So when your engine needs superior protection, be Ryco Ready.

BE RYCO READY

RYC2761

Auto Channel Issue #43 February 2022

Ask your mechanic for Ryco 4x4 upgrades.

Versatile 4.5-tonne Automaster lift AFTER SAFETY, RELIABILITY, AND DECENT SPEED ONE OF THE KEY REQUIREMENTS FOR A HOIST IS VERSATILITY AND AUTOMASTER’S TWO-POST 4.5-TONNE AM-6246R IS GOING TO FIT THE BILL MOST OF THE TIME he Automaster AM-6246R can be installed with the columns positioned either symmetrically or asymmetrically, and in a wide or narrow configuration, which means it will fit almost anywhere. Installing the columns in an offset configuration can allow the operator to open car doors wider, while the symmetric configuration gives more drive through width between the columns — close to 2.6 metres. There is also an optional low setting for the top cross bar to suit limited workshop roof heights, and there’s a padded shut-off bar and automatic cut-off switch to ensure tall vehicles are safe. The motor is installed high up on the front of the column, which means it is kept completely out of the way, allowing the hoist to be installed very close to walls. The hoist is equipped with three-stage telescoping front arms, two-stage rear arms, and double screw-up feet with 80mm height extensions for high-riding 4x4s. Protective rubber pads are mounted to the carriage and rubber column guards to prevent damage to car doors, and tool trays are attached to each arm. Operation is via a single button to raise, and a lock button rests the lift onto the locks.

It is supplied with a remote control which makes it a simple matter to lift and lower onto locks and helps when trying to position the arms under the vehicle. “This lift truly represents the very best value for money,” says Automaster’s managing director Gary Cotterell. Automaster used its decades of experience with New Zealand workshops to specify the design using only top-quality components, such as balance cables, oil pumps, cylinders, and electric motors. The column design features double S bends in its cross-section to maximise column strength within the given dimensions. “This lift will provide reliable, durable performance even in the most demanding environments,” says Gary. “Automaster lifts deliver years of dependability because they are built using only the highest quality component parts.” Automaster also supports its products with a complete inventory of parts on hand for a fast return to service, if and when required. The AM-6246R lift is 3862mm tall, or 3762mm in the low height configuration, with a high version of 4162mm also available. The minimum lift pad height

is only 88mm. It weighs 730kg and the minimum floor thickness is only 100mm of concrete so normally no expensive floor work is needed. It will run on 230V single phase power, or 380V three-phase power. The hoists come in a range of colour options: light blue with grey arms, dark blue with blue arms and yellow tool trays, and dark grey with light grey arms. For more information, contact Automaster on 0800 214 604, email info@automaster.co.nz or see automaster.co.nz.

5,820*

$0 7251 Single Post Mobile Lift Fully movable lift 2500kg capacity Single phase or 24V V battery power option. n. CE Safety Certified

OB RK T

, ON E N O D

WO S ' DO. E L R L E I TW N TH N E E H M W QUIP E T RIGH E H T

5,250*

AM-6246R -Automaster Colour options gLight Blue Two Post Car Hoist 4500kg lift Dark Blue Double screw up feet Dark Grey with 80mm 4x4 height extensions. 1 or 3 phase Only needs 100mm concreate

11,950*

AM-6745WA Four Post Wheel Alignment Lift Low, wide and long to accommodate most vehicles. 2 x jacking beams included. 4200kg Capacity. 6400kg option also avaiable

*Delivery, installation and GST not included

AUTO EQUIPMENT BUILT TO PERFORM AUCKLAND 87 Henderson Valley Rd, Henderson CHRISTCHURCH 6 Gerald Connolly Place, Hornby

(PDLO LQIR#DXWRPDVWHU FR Q] &DOO WROO IUHH

automaster.co.nz

Chevrolet Racing launches with all-new Gen3 Camaro ZL1 Supercar CHEVROLET RACING SET TO CONTINUE GM’S 50 YEARS OF HOLDEN MOTORSPORT SUCCESS M has launched a new chapter in the history of motorsport down under with the unveiling of the first Gen3 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 for Supercars racing. The new Camaro has been created to carry the Chevrolet Racing flag into the next generation of Supercars from 2023. It also marks the arrival of Chevrolet Racing as the new home for the fans who have followed and celebrated more than 50 years of Holden success in touring car racing. One of the most important requirements was that the Camaro Supercar for 2023 accurately reflect the design aesthetics of the regular roadgoing Chevrolet Camaro ZL1. Work on the project has been handled by Triple Eight Race Engineering, working closely with the GM Design and Racing division in North America. “The collaboration between Supercars, Triple Eight, and GM on the Camaro has been very precise,” said Steve Byrne, the Gen3 Camaro Program Manager for GM Australia and New Zealand. As the future motorsports brand for General Motors Australia and New Zealand, Chevrolet Racing will sit alongside the company’s other business units: GM Specialty Vehicles (GMSV), Holden Certified Service, GM Trade Parts, and ACDelco.

GLOBAL EFFORT Fresh from completing the design of the next generation Camaro ZL1 for Nascar, the GM Design team in Detroit took on responsibility for the overall appearance of the Camaro racer for Australia. This global approach means Gen3 Camaro for Supercars is now fully recognised as part of the GM global racing effort. Powering the Gen3 Camaro is the Chevrolet

Auto Channel Issue #43 February 2022

Racing 5.7-litre LTR V8 from GM’s family of the aluminium small block engines. GM motorsport Supercars homologation partner, KRE Race Engines, is tasked with the development of the engine — work that will continue throughout 2022. The engine underwent early testing and track laps through 2021 in a heavily camouflaged mule car.

CAMARO VS MUSTANG As a successor to the Holden legacy, the Camaro name is new to Supercars, but it is not new to touring car racing. It will effectively reignite one of the oldest rivalries in Australian motorsport: Chevrolet versus Ford, and Camaro versus Mustang. Fifty years ago, in 1971, tyre magnate Bob Jane used an imported Camaro to claim the Australian Touring Car Championship in an epic shootout with the Ford Mustang of Allan Moffat at the Oran Park circuit in Sydney. Jane and the Camaro, also wearing the classic ZL1 badge, did the job again in 1972 as touring car fans were treated to some of the most intense and exciting racing in the history of Australian motorsport. Bob Jane won back-to-back championships with his Camaro but he wasn’t the first to race the car in Australia, as Melbourne driver Terry Allen first competed in a Camaro SS in 1967.

CAMARO ENTERS A NEW ERA DOWN UNDER “The look and sound of the new Gen3 Camaro is just incredible,” said Marc Ebolo, managing director of GM Australia and New Zealand. “The passion and excitement of success on the track have been such an important part of our Holden brand DNA for so long,” he said. “The

high-performance demands of racing align with our vision for GM Australia and New Zealand and will continue to be a significant reflection for all our brands, including GM Specialty Vehicles, Holden Certified Service, GM Trade Parts, and ACDelco.” GMSV has just celebrated 12 months of operation in Australia and New Zealand, offering customers a portfolio that includes the Chevrolet Silverado, the Corvette Stingray, and the new trackfocused right-hand drive C8 Corvette Z06.

50 YEARS OF RACETRACK SUCCESS Holden has been a winner in the Australian Touring Car Championship and at Bathurst for more than 50 years. In 1970, touring car legend ‘Stormin’ Norm Beechey took his iconic yellow HT Monaro GTS350 to a famous ATCC victory, the first for a locally built Holden car. On the way to the title, Beechey also won at Mount Panorama with the thundering Monaro. Beechey’s greatest competitors were often driving Fords, and it was Allan Moffat who became the ultimate rival for Holden fans when he wheeled out his Trans Am Mustang and Ford Falcon. From showroom-based Series Production cars through to the heavily modified Group C era of locally developed cars, then on to the international Group A regulations, followed by a return to the Australia-first V8 Supercars, and now Supercars, Holden has competed in Australia and around the world. Over the years, Holden teams have taken more than 20 combined ATCC and Supercar championship series wins. Holden has also been dominant at Bathurst in The Great Race each October, racking up a total of 34 wins in the Bathurst 500 and Bathurst 1000. Holdens have scored many more wins on ‘The Mountain’ than any other manufacturer, Ford coming in second with 20 victories. A new range of Chevrolet Racing merchandise is already on sale at www.gmsvstore.com.au, and will be sold at Bathurst and at Supercars events next year.

GREAT RANGE TO SUIT MOST MAKES AND MODELS

Air Filters

Oil Filters

Cabin Filters

Fuel Filters

Wipers & Optikleen

PPE

Brakes

4x4 Service Kits

Coolant

Drive Belts

Spark Plugs

Batteries

Bulbs

Chemicals

Oils

We have a great range of quality servicing parts at competitive prices

Available from: Your local Holden & GM Trade Parts Outlet

www.gmtradeparts.co.nz

www.acdelco.co.nz

Is a more expensive 12V battery always better? BATTERY TECHNOLOGY HAS DIVERSIFIED RAPIDLY AND NOW OFFERS A BEWILDERING CHOICE. WE GET THE INSIDE KNOWLEDGE FROM CENTURY YUASA BATTERIES entury Yuasa Batteries’ national training manager John Kilby has been in the battery industry for 32 years and has had a front-row seat observing the evolution of technology over that time. At the start of John’s career, there was really only one main type of battery, lead acid, which was available in both 6-volt and 12-volt — the type with vented screw caps on each cell to which you added distilled water as the battery would lose some of its electrolyte through its normal operation. “Choosing a battery was relatively simple. Generally, the more you paid, the better the battery, and the longer it tended to last. Better batteries had more lead plates, increasing the surface area of the plate material. This becomes a balance, as too many plates in that confined area can lead to the risk of internal shorts,” says John. Batteries are now available with different technologies — flooded, AGM, gel, and the new kid on the block: lithium. Each of these technologies has its advantages and disadvantages. Lead requires additional additives to help provide a stable property for the lead paste to be applied to. In the early days, a material called antimony was used. While this is still used today, mainly in deep cycle batteries, other materials are used in starting batteries — the likes of calcium amongst them. This had some additional benefits, helping the battery to hold its state of charge longer and reduce water loss. The starting or cranking battery of any vehicle is

Auto Channel Issue #43 February 2022

typically a flooded battery, and this continues to be used in most original equipment applications today. Over the years we have seen this morph from a maintainable to a sealed maintenance-free product as the technology and demand change. We found ways to better contain the electrolyte within the battery, removing the need for topping up. The next big breakthrough was AGM or absorbed glass mat. These are batteries that don’t have loose electrolyte flooding each cell. Instead, the electrolyte is embedded in glass mat separators, which are pressed up against the plates. Whilst first applications for this technology were in the deep cycle space, we are now starting to see it being used in some European stop/start vehicles. The other technology worth a mention is gel. This is where the electrolyte is contained in a silica gel — also without any loose electrolyte. These products can be used in applications that flooded batteries cannot. One of the key differences between AGM and gel technology is the charging regime. The absorbed glass mat is a lot more forgiving with its charging parameters. We are now seeing smaller, lighter lithium batteries in a range of formulations entering the scene, but they are very expensive. John says how a battery is used or charged will have a lot to do with its eventual lifespan, and these usage patterns should be kept in mind when deciding which battery technology to go for.

As battery types diversify, keeping to the manufacturer’s specification is becoming more and more important. When it comes to battery replacement, the vehicle’s electrical system has already been set up for a specific type of battery. As vehicle manufacturers work to reduce emissions, one of the ways is by reducing the load on the alternator. This means that, in some cases, the vehicle may only charge the battery to 80 per cent before the charging system is disengaged to increase fuel economy, and the battery has to handle that. No battery lasts for ever, and John encourages workshops to test their customers’ battery condition at every opportunity — even if discovering a failing battery will add dollars to the customer’s bill. In some cases, drivers don’t get the warning signs we used to expect, such as the car engine cranking more slowly than usual. With today’s modern vehicles, it is often a case of “one day it starts, and the next day it doesn’t. According to John, there are no downsides to testing every battery that comes through your workshop, only upsides. “You get the battery sale, deliver good customer service, and ensure your customer doesn’t have to face a battery-related breakdown in the future.” For more information on Century Yuasa’s range of products and services, call 0800 93 93 93 or visit centurybatteries.co.nz.

CEN-425A

AUTOMOTIVE EQUIPMENT

CEN-4000B $6,499 + gst

Finance and leasing options for all budgets WWW.CENTURYDISTRIBUTORS.CO.NZ

$2,699 + gst

CEN-990

$4,295 + gst

Koba Batteries go long and strong KOBA BATTERIES HAVE MADE STRONG INROADS IN THE NEW ZEALAND BATTERY MARKET SINCE THEIR LAUNCH HERE IN 2011 anufactured in a top-notch calcium battery facility in South Korea, Koba Batteries are longlasting batteries for all applications, including automotive, commercial, and marine. Available nationwide, Koba’s complete battery range has sizes to suit most popular makes and models, as well as some harder to fit applications. The most popular Koba batteries are the maintenance-free calcium range for automotive and commercial vehicles. These batteries are designed to provide safe, reliable starting power with extended durability. They are built with enveloped separators which provide low electric resistance, maximising a battery’s electrical performance and minimising self-discharge. Their ultra microfibre and special tissue increase plate durability, giving the batteries a greater life span. The durable and safe nature of these batteries makes them an ideal choice for everyday automotive or commercial use. To meet the higher demands of stop-start vehicle technology, Koba Batteries has developed a range of absorbent glass mat (AGM) and enhanced flooded batteries (EFB) that cater for the repeated cranking demand of these vehicles. Koba’s AGM battery range has an even higher durability and cycle life than the calcium battery range. These batteries have high charge acceptance and feature excellent starting power — critical demands in modern battery management systems. Due to their packed construction, these AGM batteries also have a much better resistance to vibration than most flooded batteries. The EFB range from Koba is the intermediate solution between standard calcium batteries and AGM batteries, while still offering the power required for stop-start systems. These EFB batteries

Auto Channel Issue #43 February 2022

are designed to deliver two to three times the battery life of standard calcium batteries. They have very high charge acceptance, so they can take advantage of fuel saving charging systems designed to run for short periods only. For those seeking a powerful starting battery for marine vehicles, Koba offers a Marine range. These batteries are available in a range of popular case sizes, from 560 CCA to 800 CCA, to cover a wide spectrum of makes and models in the market. The Koba Deep Cycle HD Plus range of batteries are specifically designed for marine, RV, 4WDs, and other heavy vehicles where vibration resistance, and the capacity to accept a deep draw, are paramount. Koba Deep Cycle HD Plus batteries provide high endurance, making them suitable for New Zealand’s varied terrain and environments. These batteries are also ideal for seasonal applications such as boats, caravans, and campers due to their minimal self-discharging properties. For those wanting all-rounder batteries, the Koba Dual Purpose Deep Cycle range of batteries features everything expected from a good and dependable battery. The key features of Koba Deep Cycle batteries include cycling and starting capabilities, making them a suitable choice for a variety of marine and

recreational applications. The complete range of Koba automotive, commercial, and marine batteries is available exclusively at R&J Batteries. R&J Batteries is one of the fastest growing leading distributors of batteries, accessories, and lubricants in Australasia, and now has 27 branches and more than 8000 stockists in the region. R&J Batteries entered New Zealand’s highly competitive battery industry in 2018 with the opening of its Auckland branch. Since then, the branch has relocated to 57H McLaughlins Road, Wiri, to meet the growing demand for its specialised products and services. The new Wiri distribution centre features more than 1000 sqm of full height racking bays, a new showroom, customer service area, multiple parking bays for customers and pick-up, meeting spaces, and a conference room. The new distribution centre has allowed R&J Batteries to expand its warehousing and distribution capacities significantly. R&J Batteries opened its Christchurch branch in 2019 in a merger agreement with New Zealand born and bred battery company Acme Batteries. Acme Batteries had distributed Koba Batteries nationwide since 2011 and has been instrumental in building the brand’s reputation in New Zealand. Since the merger, Koba Batteries is now exclusively distributed by R&J Batteries, who continue to offer the Koba brand as an official Blackfern supplier. In 2020 and 2021, R&J Batteries expanded its capacity with the addition of the Acme warehouse in Albany and by opening another new warehouse in Hamilton, allowing the battery distributor to service both North and South Islands more efficiently. R&J Batteries’ extensive brand portfolio consists of world-class brands such as Delkor, ACDelco, BAE, Fullriver, Predator, ALLiON, Hardcore, Optima, RELiON, Zenaji, and more. Together, these brands cover battery and accessory needs for customers across New Zealand. Contact R&J Batteries’ Wiri, Christchurch, Hamilton, or Albany branches to learn more about these products or to become a stockist. For more information on R&J Batteries and their associated brands, visit rjbatt.co.nz, or call 0800 546 000.

BATTERIES FOR ALL MAKES AND MODELS

STOP-START | AUTOMOTIVE | COMMERCIAL | MARINE KOBA Batteries are manufactured in South Korea at one of the region’s most experienced calcium battery facilities. Built with low resistance envelope separators, greater plate durability and additional safety features, KOBA batteries provide reliable performance to a wide range of applications.

NOW AVAILABLE FROM R&J BATTERIES // 0800 002 263

// www.rjbatt.co.nz

Heavy-duty graphene and SiO2 protection NEW GRAPHENE TECH OFFERS NEXT-GENERATION PAINT PROTECTION FOR ENTHUSIAST CARS AND HEAVY-DUTY TRUCKS yatt Machine Tools, proudly New Zealandowned, is now offering the Renegade Graphene + Ceramic line, the first graphene detailing kit designed with car enthusiasts, truck enthusiasts, and heavy-duty vehicles in mind. While many spray coatings and waxes wear off after only one wash and a few weeks, this product can last up to one year. “These products will make it easier to clean your vehicle with routine washes, and add gloss and depth that will leave your paint looking like new,” says Wyatt’s operations manager, Mark Wyatt. So what’s the deal with graphene? Graphene is a single layer of carbon molecules that can be easily dispersed in organic solvents, water, and polymer matrixes, an ideal property that adds its legendary strength to polish formulations. It surpasses ‘ceramic’ coatings, which use silicon dioxide (SiO2), better known as quartz. While silicon dioxide also adds a tough coating that forces water to bead effectively, it doesn’t shed the water as well on horizontal surfaces. That can leave water spots — the residue of the water beads’ mineral content — when surfaces dry out. The tight honeycomb structure in the graphene bond makes the coating significantly more water repellent, as

well as tougher. Graphene + Ceramic Spray Coating — one-year protection Renegade’s Graphene + Ceramic Spray coating is a one-year sprayable coating engineered with SiO2, carnauba, plus graphene dispersion. This spray combines extreme hydrophobic properties with enhanced gloss, UV, and water spot protection as well as minor scratch resistance. It was formulated with both professional detailers and car enthusiasts in mind. Renegade Wash lasts up to one year Renegade’s Ceramic Wash + Graphene was engineered to provide the best protection of any soap on the market. It contains a proprietary blend of SiO2 emulsions, graphene, and other premium surfactants that provide cleaning ability, protection, and shine to your vehicle’s surface. Results may vary depending on climate and mileage, but protection can last from six months to a year.

improved gloss, scratch and UV resistance, as well as reduction in water spotting. Where to start — Alcohol Prep Spray To get the best result from the new coatings, it’s vital to start with a clean substrate. Renegade’s Alcohol Prep Spray was engineered to remove residue, oils, surface contaminants, waxes, and fillers making it ideal for prepping paint in preparation for a wax, polish, or ceramic coating. For more than 40 years Wyatt Machine Tools has imported and distributed power tools, collision repair equipment, and surface finishing products to trade professionals throughout New Zealand. Wyatt Machine Tools understands that maximising productivity is crucial to maintaining workshop profits and it is committed to selling only top-performing and competitively priced equipment and consumable products. Wyatt stocks and represents Rupes, Car-O-Liner, Farécla, ProForm, Smirdex, Eco Touch, EN Chemicals, OMCN, and many more quality brands. For more information see www.wyatt.co.nz, or call 09 525 1000 for expert advice.

Graphene + Ceramic Wax This product combines the new school with the old school method of applying protection by hand or machine. This wax will seal and protect your paint with improved contact angle beading,

New Zealand’s Hottest Brake Range

cooldrive.co.nz 12

Auto Channel Issue #43 February 2022

Put Hella’s innovation to work highlighting your vehicle’s good looks HELLA HAS PUT ITS STRIKING LED LIGHT PIPE TECHNOLOGY TO WORK TO CREATE AN INNOVATIVE POSITION LIGHT INTEGRATED WITH A POWERFUL HIGH-BEAM LIGHT BAR his new light bar is the natural choice when exceptional durability and long-term reliability are needed. Hella’s range of award-winning LED Light Bars provide additional light and are approved for use in New Zealand and Australia with ECE compliance (two lamps). The sleek, low-profile housings are designed and precision manufactured using ultra-durable materials to ensure good looks, long life, and value for money. Multivolt circuitry means the dual function lamp will automatically recognise either 12V or 24V DC systems, while only consuming 36W on high beam. Any input between 9-33 volts offers optimum brightness. The adjustable mounting system ensures easy installation

and flexibility for any orientation, but naturally the lightbar must be mounted and operated in accordance with regulations governing high beam and position lamps. They feature Hella’s proven durability and long-term reliability. Built for all weather and conditions, the light bar is hermetically sealed making it completely dust and waterproof to the IP6K7 standard. The housing is precision moulded using a revolutionary noncorrosive, thermally conductive polymer material that delivers unmatched corrosion resistance and

toughness. This eliminates any potential issues like rust or powder coating flaking off. The scalloped design is also easy to clean as there are no cavities which can get clogged with dirt, unlike traditional light bars with thin heat fins. Designed and manufactured in New Zealand for fit-and-forget peace of mind, the completely sealed Hella LED Light Bar series is covered by a five-year warranty. For more information, visit hella.co.nz.

Technology with Vision

LUMINATOR 3.0 LED High Beam Driving Lamp

Designed with style, built for performance - the perfect lighting choice for taking your on and off road adventures to the next level. The new distinctive position lamp function is made possible by HELLA’s innovative Edge Light technology. Must be mounted according to local installation regulations for high beam and position lamps

0800 4 HELLA (0800 443 552) for your nearest HELLA stockist Luminator Half Page 220x156.indd 1

www.hella.co.nz 18-Mar-21 10:15:03 AM

New Zenith Z5 scan tool from EZDS NEW SCAN TOOL LAUNCHES WITH NEW ZEALAND MARKET SOFTWARE TO FILL G-SCAN 3 SUPPLY GAP CREATED BY HARDWARE SHORTAGES or the past 12 years, EZDS has developed the software for the leading scan tool product range in Australia and New Zealand, G-Scan. However, G-Scan 3 production and supply has been interrupted because of worldwide Covid lockdowns, shipping delays, and shortages of silicon chips. This has led EZDS to partner with another Korean worldclass premium hardware supplier, Bluebird (nope, not the potato chips) to create the new Zenith Z5. Repco’s diagnostic sales and training manager Dean Guilford says the product name may be unfamiliar but many professional automotive repairers will know of EZDS, without knowing exactly what their role is. What this means for existing G-Scan users is that the Zenith Z5 will feel comfortable and familiar, even though it has improved and enhanced features. An example of this in the Zenith Z5 software is the Kia/Hyundai program, which has been converted to the same menu layout as other car brands, instead of working the same as OEM Kia/Hyundai products. That will be an improvement in consistency welcomed by most. Other Zenith Z5

Auto Channel Issue #43 February 2022

features include a fast service menu, vehicle report creation, ADAS calibration functions, J2534 pass-through programming, key programming, hybrid and electric special functions, fast data logging and recording, and advanced petrol and diesel special function coverage. In line with demand from automotive professionals in various world markets including Japan, EZDS has opted for an ergonomic, lightweight, ruggedised tablet with an 8-inch Eyellumicate display. The 8-inch field optimised display offers high resolution and performance in bright sunlight. The touchscreen is designed to work when the operator is wearing gloves. EZDS’s software has extensive Japanese vehicle coverage, which makes it particularly suitable for the New Zealand market’s second-hand import

fleet, 24V HD applications, along with near OEM level Kia/Hyundai Korean software. All this, says Dean, is combined with the accurate and reliable high-level software for Australian, European, USA, Chinese, and other world market vehicles carried over to the Zenith Z5. These products continue to be fully supported by two years of free software updates, a one-year warranty, and a repair service. The Z5 is imported and supported by Mount AutoEquip Services, the G-Scan and Zenith distributor for Oceania. Dean recommends the latest Zenith Z5 to any customers looking for a new diagnostic scan tool and especially those who had been considering the G-Scan 3. “The Zenith Z5 is great value for money offering premium hardware, the same trusted, highend, advanced universal software, backed by the same professional, local technical support team, and it comes at a lower price,” he says. For more information contact Repco on 0800 237 726.

RAASM — the real steel hose reel IF YOU WANT A NO-NONSENSE QUALITY HOSE REEL, ITALIAN-MADE RAASM REELS ARE DESIGNED AND BUILT FOR INDUSTRIAL USE AASM hose reels are made from stainless steel or from painted carbon steel, and the armoured hoses are designed for the full range of automotive fluids. RAASM reels and hoses can handle pressures of up to 700 Bar. They are available in hand, spring, pneumatic, electric, or hydraulic rewind options. James Driscoll, owner of Emco, New Zealand’s RAASM distributor, says the efficiency gains from a good hose setup work in many ways. “When I drive around the country looking at local New Zealand industries working hard, I see many opportunities for the use of quality hose reels. Hose reels make our workshops easier and less hassle to work in. High-mounted hose reels can keep the floor clear of hoses — which is much safer. It feels safer and increases efficiency. Reels also make our businesses look and feel more professional which has positive effects on both customers and staff.”

Emco is an import/distribution business that supplies and installs commercial and industrial storage, distribution, and dispensing equipment products for a wide range of flowing products. The company specialises in designing fluid dispensing installations customised to each business’s specific needs. One of Emco’s best sellers is its wide range of European-made RAASM hose reels. James says the RAASM reels are proven fit for purpose in commercial and industrial applications, but he also takes pride in the product’s design aesthetics. He says a good hose system protects hoses from wear and tear, increasing the lifespan of your equipment. More importantly, they remove clutter and trip hazards, and they increase workspace by retrieving and tidying hoses away after every use. RAASM hose arms can be repositioned easily to suit wall, bench, or ceiling installation, and the spring tension can be adjusted to achieve the safest hose retraction speed in each location. The hoses will handle compressed air at all working pressures, and water at low or high pressure or temperature, oil, diesel, grease, gases, chemicals, additives, or even sugar syrup for feeding honey bees. To help with specifying a hose system, James says businesses should consider four things: which fluids are they using, what is the flow rate required, what is the length of hose, and what is the required operating pressure. For more information or help with designing an installation call EMCO on (07) 850 5240, or email sales@emco.co.nz.

LET’S KEEP THINGS MOVING TALK TO EMCO FOR NATIONWIDE DISTRIBUTION AND INSTALLATION OF EQUIPMENT FOR LUBRICANTS, FLUIDS AND GASES.

EMCO offers an extensive range of premium reticulation products with the highest levels of functionality and design, from quality manufacturers across the globe. Our team of determined problem-solvers are passionate about quality, service and doing what’s right for you. EMCO products and installations solve even the most technical of reticulation challenges. SPEAK TO EMCO FOR PUMPS, REELS, DISPENSING EQUIPMENT AND ACCESSORIES, ALONG WITH SITE PLANNING, INSTALLATION AND SUPPORT. New Zealand agent for world-leading RAASM products

Contact our expert team today Phone 07 850 5240 Email sales@emco.co.nz Emco.co.nz

Setting up or revamping a tyre bay? TREADWAY EQUIPPED’S LOREN BILL HAS SEEN A FEW TYRE BAYS IN HIS TIME AND HAS THIS ADVICE FOR WORKSHOPS CONSIDERING AN UPGRADE oren Bill at Treadway Equipped advises, supplies, and services workshop equipment to automotive businesses across New Zealand. He says Treadway Equipped has a strong focus on recommending the right equipment for their customers to ensure they get maximum return. He offers readers the following tips for making the most from a tyre bay. “Whether you plan to have a simple tyre bay, or a full multi-bay flow through rapid changer setup, you will need to plan effectively to get the most out of your space and make sure the set up is as efficient as possible,” he says.

LAYOUT “If possible, it is great to have a separate entrance and exit so vehicles can flow through easily. Avoiding manoeuvring vehicles around in a building and reversing out saves time and reduces disruption. “Another option is using a multi-bay drive-in format, which is most common in New Zealand,” he says. “This is where you may have multiple bays side by side like car parks, and the machines and tools are arranged around each bay.

EQUIPMENT “The equipment you will need for a basic tyre bay are a tyre changer, wheel balancer, and a compressor, as well as a set of trolley jacks, axle stands, impact wrench, and torque wrench. “When choosing your equipment, it is important to look at your tyre volume or expected volume and choose gear that is fit for that usage. “For example, if you are a workshop that may do two to four sets of tyres a day, we would recommend the Steiner ST260 tyre changer and the Steiner ST420 wheel balancer. However, if you are planning to have your tyre bay doing six sets or more a day, we would recommend the Fasep range of equipment.” Fasep is 100 percent Italian designed and manufactured and features the latest sensor technology and automation, which saves time, reduces the potential for errors, and saves labour which keeps staff safe and motivated to perform well. EFFICIENCY TIPS Consider putting in a mid-height, scissor-type belly lift to raise vehicles, rather than jacks. This is a lot quicker and certainly a lot safer. Check out the Steiner LT280S for this job.

ST260 Tyre Changer

COMPACT, EFFICIENT, RELIABLE The perfect option for Car Dealerships and Workshops that have a tyre changing facility or need to get into changing tyres. › A clamping range of 11 to 24", variable torque bead breaker, and the option of a helper arm make the ST260 an extremely versatile machine.

Installation and training › Our After Sales Team ensures that your machine is set up and staff trained, so your business is ready to go.

OUR PROMISE:

100 ONE HUNDRED DAYS 100% SATISFACTION

If you are not 100% satisfied with your equipment, Treadway Equipped will repair, replace or refund the equipment free of charge within the first 100 days.

GET IN TOUCH

0800 436 436 treadwayequipped.co.nz

Take special care when deciding where to put the air lines. Loren recommends placing reels as close to the job as possible, thus minimising the length of line on the ground creating a trip hazard. The John Guest Quick Fit nylon hosing range is an excellent product for running air lines from your compressor. Loren recommends placing reels high on a pillar beside each tyre bay, or on the rafter above the bay, making the line accessible without any trip risk. Look at using powerful battery powered impact wrenches rather than pneumatic ones. Removing this need for an airline keeps the tyre bay clear and further reduces trip hazards. Treadway Equipped can provide layout and planning consultations and recommendations. It offers a complete range of equipment for every size of workshop. Treadway Equipped can also determine which leasing and financing options would best match your investment and projected returns from an upgraded tyre bay. For more information see treadwayequipped.co.nz or call 0800 436 436.

Quality tools at fair prices DISCOUNT TOOLS AIMS TO SHOW QUALITY TOOLS DON’T ALWAYS HAVE TO COST A LIMB fter working in the motor trade for many years, Daniel Howard decided to put his hard-won knowledge about the best tools for the job to work for other tradies by establishing Discount Tools as an online portal for quality diagnostic and specialist trade tools. Wellington-based Discount Tools currently sells diagnostic scanners, power tools, hand tools, and workshop tools online. Later this year, it will be expanding into the already competitive workshop equipment business. “I realised that the tools that trades people use to earn a living were generally over priced,” says Daniel. “I made it my mission through Discount Tools to drive prices down so everybody can afford the quality tools they need to get the job done without it costing an arm and a leg. “After all, this is why we use the gear we need — to earn a living, not earn a wage to pay for the tools we need.” Discount Tools keeps prices low by importing tools directly, which saves costs charged by separate importers and distributors. Daniel used his experience in the trade to specialise in tools he has personally used. “I only like using quality products that are trade tested and reliable,” he says. Discount Tools currently supplies Blue Point, Milwaukee, DeWalt, Makita, Autel, Launch, and

Topdon but has already ventured into offering its own brand specialist tool kits for tasks like pulling and pressing, and brake, oil filter, cooling systems, CV, alternator, timing, and injector servicing, as well as taps, dies, hooks, and picks. There are 57 Discount Tool-branded items on the website.

Daniel Howard

Discount Tools is a Blackfern Cooperative supplier. Members receive double points on all purchases, and access to three-month interest-free split payments. “We have used Blackfern over a number of years and I like the fact it’s a Kiwi business for Kiwis,” says Daniel. He says the Blackfern system is easy to use because it had members and suppliers in mind from the outset. “It’s great to work with the Blackfern Cooperative as nothing is ever a problem. I take my hat off to Roger and the Blackfern team for creating a great Kiwi business.” Daniel’s business is one of those that responded to the challenge of Covid by identifying and playing to its strengths. “The increase in online shopping has really helped to get our name out there and showcasing the products we sell has shown the strength of our product line-up,” he says. Daniel says its website, www.discounttoolsnz. co.nz, is easy to use, with tools organised under brands and by type. “We also have a live chat button to discuss any potential order that you may wish to place, or you can give us a call directly on 027 357 1350.” You can also contact Discount Tools by email through the website, or email discount.tools.nz@ outlook.com with a Blackfern number to charge purchases directly to your account.

Pure Kiwi

blackfern.coop

Chicane Tools back quality with value CHICANE TOOLS IS THE NEW KID ON THE HAND TOOL BLOCK, BUT IT’S A BRAND YOU’LL SEE A LOT MORE OF hicane Tools is aiming for both the professional and hobbyist mechanic market with an everexpanding range of hand tools. It is aiming to find a niche in the competitive hand-tool market through sourcing products from the best factories and delivering them at competitive prices. The company has sourced tools from production facilities in Taiwan that have earned a reputation for creating the world’s best engineered tools. Chicane Tools are manufactured right alongside tools sold under the names of some of the world’s bestknown brands.

SUPERCAR STANDARD To demonstrate the new brand’s credentials, Chicane tools are used by Australian Supercars Mustang team Tickford Racing, formerly Prodrive Racing Australia and Ford Performance Racing. Tickford Racing chief executive officer and team principal Tim Edwards welcomed the new Chicane brand to one of Australia’s most successful motor racing teams. “Bringing Chicane on board from 2021 is incredibly exciting for our team. On race day we think three steps ahead, so when our crew turns to Chicane, we know they will have the best tools available.” Chicane offers ratchet socket sets and impact socket sets in metric and AF sizes and in ¼, 3/8 and ½-inch drives, a broad range of ratchets, and ratchet spanners. It also offers screwdrivers, pliers, Allen keys, ball end hex keys with 3/8-in drive socket ends, a range of torque wrenches, impact driver sets, picking tools, hammers and pry bars, and even a soldering kit. Open any one of the tough, plastic-moulded boxes and Chicane says you’ll discover tools forged to go the distance. The screwdrivers are magnetic tipped and have hex bolsters for added leverage and have soft-grip TPV handles. The chrome vanadium steel ratchets come with a precise 72-tooth mechanism, and socket drivers offer a ‘positivedrive’ design. There are 16 socket sets on offer in both standard and deep designs. The impact sets have a no-chip black phosphate finish and sockets are laser etched for easy identification.

CONFIDENCE IN QUALITY Chicane tools are purpose designed for the workshop with real-world practicality in mind and the hand tools come with a lifetime warranty to give the trade absolute confidence they’re buying topquality tools. The set of impact sockets for mag wheels have colour-coded steel rings for easy identification, and a soft plastic outer cover to avoid marking mag wheels. The four click-type torque wrenches in the range cover from five through to 350 Newton metres, have 48-tooth ratchet heads, and can be recalibrated to lifetime accuracy.

Chicane Tools also has adjustable spanners marked with jaw opening sizes, and a range of tool boxes and chests.

COOL TOOL CHESTS The sturdy Chicane tool chests provide tidy storage in seven-drawer chests, right through to comprehensive garage trolleys. They also look cool and professional in black with the subtle Chicane badge in red. They are made from lockable powdercoated, workshop-grade steel panels mounted on a reinforced steel frame body, with solid aluminium handles. Gas struts on the tool chests keep lids under control. The drawers roll on heavy duty ball bearings, and the two trolleys, available in 27 inch

and 41in widths, roll on lockable castors. The entire Chicane Tool range is engineered to meet and exceed the ANSI (American National Standards Institute) standards and comes with at least a 12-month warranty. Chicane claims to offer at least the same premium quality as its competitors but they are priced below the market leaders to provide up to 30 percent greater value. They’ll often provide a higher piece count in sets, and offer better features. The entire Chicane range is exclusively available through BNT and Autolign. For more information, or to find stockists, see chicanetools.co.nz.

WHEN IT’S A GAME OF PHYSICAL & MENTAL GYMNASTICS…

turn to available at

chicanetools.co.nz

trade quality // lifetime warranty 19

Car news

All new Honda Civic arrives HONDA’S 11TH GENERATION CIVIC HATCH HAS ARRIVED IN NEW ZEALAND, SPORTING A NEW LOWER AND SLEEKER PROFILE. IT’S CLAIMED TO BE THE MOST FUN-TO-DRIVE CIVIC HATCH EVER he new car has an appealing four-door coupe look but it is a full five-door hatch, thanks to a lightweight composite rear door, which allowed for the design of low-profile hinges. A low bonnet and pronounced beltline combined with straightedged side windows give the car a classy long and low look, which also promises a larger greenhouse. It’s unusual to see door-mounted side mirrors but that has preserved the low beltline. Honda is making much of the clean design it was going for, and the new model is certainly tidier than the previous generation, which had a host of accent lines and pronounced haunches. The A-pillar is nearly 50mm further back than on the previous car, and now has dimensions similar to Accords. The new Civic’s wheelbase is a significant 35mm longer than that of the previous model, and its rear track is 12mm wider. Almost all of that length has gone into improving rear legroom. Rear headroom has been preserved, despite the coupé lines, thanks to the new hinge design.

STIFFER AND SMOOTHER The new body delivers a 19 per cent improvement in torsional rigidity over the previous generation, which translates into improvements in ride, handling, and refinement. Reductions in noise, vibration, and harshness are augmented with the extensive use of structural adhesives, spray-in foam in the pillars, and additional sound-deadening in the firewall and under the floor. The pulled-back A-pillars, low hood, and hidden windshield wipers enable a windshield with clearly defined corners for a panoramic view. The instrument panel is designed with a minimum of cutlines to reduce windshield reflections. The cargo space is more easily accessible, thanks to a 40mm wider lower hatch opening and low liftover height. The standard 60/40 split seat back can be folded for expanded capacity, and the side-pull cargo cover will conceal the rear cargo area. The fascia is dominated by a horizontal honeycomb grille, echoing the radiator grille, which hides the air vents. A simpler dash design is important when the now unavoidable large

Auto Channel Issue #43 February 2022

touchscreens are cluttered with so many images. It’s good to see this nine-inch screen has a rotary volume knob and button controls, and a lip on which to steady your hand for aiming your fingers while driving. Honda is always good at the details and here it has paid close attention to materials on the different touchpoints, and made sure all switchgear and controls operate with satisfying feedback. The Civic Hatch features the new anti-fatigue seat, which debuted in New Zealand on the new Jazz. Trim is taken to the next level with combination perforated leather and Ultrasuede seats with added shoulder support. The driver’s and front passenger’s seats are eight-way and four-way power adjusted respectively.

SPORT MODE The Hatch is powered by a turbocharged 1.5-litre, 16-valve, 4-cylinder producing 131 kilowatts at 6000rpm and 240Nm of torque at 1700 to 4500 rpm, mated to a CVT transmission driving the 18inch front wheels. Fuel efficiency and emissions are improved by a new standard idle-stop system, a new catalytic converter design, as well as Honda’s variable timing and lift electronic control (VTEC) on the exhaust valves. For maximum driver enjoyment, Civic Hatch’s suspension and steering were developed in Europe. Civics have mostly been fun to drive and Honda says this is the most fun-to-drive Civic Hatch ever. The driver can select normal, eco, or sport driving mode. The front MacPherson struts feature new lowfriction ball joints and front damper mount bearings to improve steering feel and self-centring. The spring and damper alignment has been optimised to minimise operational friction, and a new, larger compliance bushing with an improved bushing axis minimises harshness. The rear track’s additional width adds stability to the multi-link rear end, and the longer wheelbase also aids ride quality. New rear lower control arm bushings promote better straight-line stability and turn in, while reducing noise and vibration inside

the cabin. The electronic power steering has been retuned to provide better feedback and improved straight-line stability. The reduced suspension friction and improved bushings are claimed to help reduce road shock, when going over railroad crossings for example, by 20 per cent.The all-new aluminium front subframe, with an efficient truss and rib structure, provides rigidity and stability.

BOSE AUDIO The new Civic gets a 12-speaker Bose audio system for the first time, with digital signal processing that is custom engineered for the Civic’s interior. Dynamic speed compensation technology automatically adjusts volume and tone based on vehicle speed, reducing the need for drivers to manually adjust settings while on the road. Passengers are protected by eight airbags, including new knee airbags. Standard in the car is a new Honda Sensing suite of driver assistive technologies that uses a new single-camera system providing a longer, wider field of view than the previous radar-and-camera based system. Combined with software advances and a new, more powerful processor, the system recognises hazards faster, along with road lines and road signs. Honda Sensing now features ‘traffic jam assist’, and provides more natural brake application and quicker reactions when using adaptive cruise control (ACC). It also has more linear and natural steering action when using the lane keeping assist system (LKAS). As Honda’s longest-running automotive nameplate, more than 27 million Civics have been purchased by customers around the world since 1972, making it one of the top six best-selling passenger cars globally, ever. New Zealand was the first country outside Japan to assemble the Civic — it was assembled here until the sixth generation. The new Civic Hatch Sport, available in four colours, is priced at $47,000 plus $800 in on-road costs.

Best car in the world is an EV yundai Motor Group’s all-electric Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Kia EV6 have jointly taken top spot at the first-ever ‘Best Cars of the Year’ 2021/2022 Awards. The joint world champions were singled out for quality, innovation, design, and state-of-the-art tech by a judging panel of global industry leaders from across the automotive spectrum. Cars they beat included the Audi e-tron, Ford Mustang Mach-E, and Porsche Taycan. Each of the top 10 places was occupied by a different brand, covering six countries spread across the world’s top three car-producing continents — Asia, Europe, and North America. “We are proud that our first two dedicated battery electric vehicles are jointly honoured as the first-ever Best Cars of the Year,” said Heung Soo Kim, head of the EV Business Division at Hyundai Motor Group. “It sends a clear message that not only are both Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Kia EV6 worldclass electric vehicles, but also that we are on the right track with our electrification strategy. The world can expect more great EV models from both brands in the coming year.” The Hyundai Ioniq 5 was launched in 2021 as the first model in the company’s battery electric vehicle (BEV) line-up brand. Ioniq 5’s modern take on retro design includes Hyundai’s first clamshell hood. The

fully electric car has generous interior proportions thanks to the 3000mm wheelbase, short overhangs front and rear, and the absence of a conventional drivetrain tunnel. The Kia EV6 shares the group’s pioneering E-GMP EV architecture, but the external design distinguishes the Hyundai and Kia models from each other. The EV6 has already won multiple international accolades since its launch during the second half of 2021 for its visionary, connected tech user experience, 800V ultra-fast charging, and dynamic performance driving characteristics.

The ‘Best Cars of the Year’ Awards were formed to produce an unaffiliated and democratic view of the ‘best’ vehicles on offer around the world. The judging panel brings together designers, engineers, motorsport pioneers, acclaimed journalists, broadcasters, and media professionals alongside outstanding vehicle retailers, automotive consultants, major event organisers, and real-world car buyers. This combination has helped to generate an authentic, unbiased view of the ‘best’ cars available.

Hyundai's Ioniq 5 joint winner

Renault 5 turns the big five-oh he Renault 5 is 50 years old this year. The car was a true symbol of pop culture, with more than 5 million units sold across the world, and it is making a comeback with its rebirth planned for 2024. From March, Renault will be launching NFTs that will allow the greatest fans to acquire limited edition pieces of work that are created especially around the Renault 5 universe. This will include art, sneakers, and music, with the return of a portable tape player. Artist Greg l’illustrateur will create a series of work on the theme of Renault 5 and its variations. To start the events, the Renault 5 Alpine Group II, accompanied by a Renault 5 Turbo, will attend the Monte-Carlo Historique. On the 28 January, an exclusive film made in stop-motion will be broadcast across Renault channels, alongside the hashtag #50YEAR5, which will accompany all Renault 5 activations across the year.

German bid to boost battery tech

he Volkswagen Group and the Bosch Group have signed a memorandum of understanding to set up a European battery equipment solution provider. The two companies plan to supply integrated battery production systems as well as on-site support for battery cell and system manufacturers. The companies are aiming for cost and technology leadership in provisioning battery technology and the volume production of sustainable, cutting-edge batteries. The Volkswagen Group and the Bosch Group aim to supply the entire range of processes and components needed for the large-scale manufacture of battery cells and systems. The industry-wide demand is enormous. In Europe alone, various companies plan to build cell factories with a total yearly capacity of around 700 gigawatt hours by 2030. The Volkswagen Group itself plans to build six cell factories in Europe by 2030. For both partners, this alliance is a further step towards playing leading roles in the world of e-mobility. The partnership will draw on complementary areas of expertise. While Volkswagen is an accomplished at-scale automaker and is on its way to becoming a

major battery cell manufacturer, Bosch has excellent know-how in factory automation and systems integration. Thomas Schmall, CEO of Volkswagen Group Components, commented, “Europe has the unique chance to become a global battery powerhouse in the years to come. There is a strong and growing demand for all aspects of battery production, including the equipment of new gigafactories. Volkswagen and Bosch will explore opportunities to develop and shape this novel, multibillion-euro industry in Europe. Our decision to actively engage in the vertical integration of the battery-making value chain will tap considerable new profit pools. Setting out to establish a fully localised European supply chain for e-mobility made in Europe certainly marks a rare opportunity in business history.”

ONE TRICK PONY HAVING RACED A FALCON FOR EIGHT YEARS, BARRY MORGAN NEEDED A CHANGE. THE ANSWER WAS TO BUILD HIMSELF ONE HELL OF A ‘65 MUSTANG FASTBACK

arry Morgan has long been a fan of circuit racing, particularly the nostalgic stuff, and has been a regular campaigner of a pre-’65 Falcon for many seasons. Watching the big boys hurl their toys around circuits and seeing them grinning from ear to ear when drivers removed their helmets after battle was something Barry decided he needed a slice of, so the decision was made — he was going muscle car racing! With the fields full of Camaros and Mustangs, Barry really wanted to pedal something a little bit different. Eventually, he stumbled across a ’70 Ford Maverick for sale in the States. It was set up for drag racing, had recently been completely refreshed, and had zero passes on it. This would be a perfect donor car — or so he thought. When it arrived, Barry and his son, Jason, quickly decided it would be a sin to tear it apart only for its body! The Maverick turned out to have a bit of history behind it. It was originally built in 1978 and raced in the old B/SM class at the likes of the ’79 Winternationals in Pomona. It originally ran a Boss 302 and a four-speed during its early racing career. This combo has since been removed and replaced with a 351 Windsor stretched out to 408 cubes full of expensive and exotic stuff, including a set of early Roush Yates Trick Flow R heads and is backed by Mike’s Transmission Ultra-Glide with buttock-clenching 5000rpm stall converter. (The Maverick is currently for sale, so if you want a solid nine-second car to go and do wheel stands within the super sedan ranks, hit us up.) Resigned to the fact that the Maverick wasn’t going to happen, the search was now on for a plan B. That would be found hiding in the back of a shed in Temuka: a white 1965 Mustang notchback. Yes, a notchback — more about that later. This car

Auto Channel Issue #43 February 2022

had been imported but was missing the necessary paperwork to allow it to be registered on the road. It wasn’t his first choice, and, as it turns out, it wasn’t really his second choice either. Despite all of this, he bought it anyway. “My preference was a fastback, so after purchasing it I decided to cut the roof off,” explains Barry. Now, not everyone possesses the skills to behead a notchback and turn it into a fastback, but Barry isn’t just anyone. The retired self-employed engineer is no stranger to all things vehicular. He still owns his T-Bucket TNT, which he built in 1968, so lopping the head off a Mustang was right up his alley. A fastback roof section and a pair of rear flanks were purchased from the Mustang Centre in Christchurch. He quickly peeled away the bits he didn’t want and attached the bits he did. All the internal sections of the body frame were painstakingly fabricated from 1mm sheet metal. While he was at it he also hand built a set of doors and new trunk lid and hood from aluminium too. He also set about altering the front sheet metal, added some fender flares, filled in the front valance, and altered the grille area. He made a plug for the front splitter for good mate Andy Giles to make a mould from so fibreglass components could be made. Everything was then screwed, glued, and bolted together to make a one-piece removable front clip to assist in servicing the stallion at the track. A set

of flares were also grafted onto the rear fenders to finish off the tough exterior Look. Barry didn’t stop here with the fabrication though, as you could imagine by now he was “in the zone” and it’s safe to say that there is probably more Barry Morgan stuff in and on the Mustang than there is Henry Ford stuff. Racecar life means three things–safety, handling and speed! Barry broke out the tube bender, twisted up some sections of tube into a fairly elaborate roll cage, and burnt them all together inside the shell, with electricity and sparks. 1965 suspension was never going to cut the mustard when he was howling into the left hander at the end of the front straight at Ruapuna. Bespoke front double wishbone suspension was crafted, XA Falcon spindles and Bilstein coil overs made their way out of Barry’s shed and onto the front end. Tunability is handled by another creation from Barry’s brain. The front end features a fully adjustable blade-style sway bar arrangement which can be tuned on the fly from inside the cabin, clever! Completing the interior are a pair of race seats, and a myriad of hand-made items, steering column, alloy dash and centre console control panel all built by Barry. He also hand built a nine-inch diff housing and stuffed it with 3.89:1 gears sitting in an aluminium carrier. Gun-drilled 31-spline Nascar axles also found their way into the rear of the car, all firmly

There is probably more Barry Morgan stuff in and on the Mustang than there is Henry Ford stuff

attached via a custom Barry-built three-link, paired with QA1 shocks and springs to help iron out the bumps in the rear. Stopping duties are handled inside via a Wilwood pedal box, while on the outside six-pot calipers up front clamp 340mm rotors with slightly smaller, 312mm rotors and four-pot calipers used at the rear. All four stoppers are attached to more Barry stuff: owner-built aluminium hats — we did say there were bugger all Henry Ford bits left! Super sticky Hankook 275 wide semi slicks are in turn attached to these and provide more than enough front and rear-end grip. Dart Championship Engine Components answered the call and shipped over one of their 8.200-inch 302 blocks for Murray Thomas from Wanaka to piece together. The block has been bored 160 thou over and stuffed with an Eagle stroker rotating assembly consisting of Eagle crank, eight shiny Eagle rods, topped with a set of forged pistons. Air Flow Research Renegade CNC-ported 220 alloy heads along with titanium valves help make the small block Ford breathe. A Braswell carb bolted on top of a Victor JR intake completes the package, all of which is screwed together with ARP hardware to keep all the internals off the ground and inside the block where they should be. Bolted to the back of the screaming small block is a Nascar G-Force H-pattern four-speed dog box, Barry bought the dog box out of the USA, pulled it apart, and gave it

a bit of a freshen up. He also used a Nascar-style small bell housing and reverse-drive starter motor, along with a 7¼-inch Tilton clutch set-up to help feed the power rearwards through a custom steel driveshaft. Oiling and fuel delivery duties are both handled by Barry wizardry. He fabricated a trick alloy dry sump pan and an oil tank mounted in the boot to handle the lubrication. With the solid-mounted engine now sitting 100mm lower and further back in the engine bay to keep the centre of gravity as low as possible, Barry needed to pass the steering tie rod through a tube recess in the sump to make it all work. A 57-litre fuel tank resides in the trunk, and the 750hp fuel pump makes sure ample fuel is always on hand. Steel-braided lines are used extensively to feed liquids from the back to the front. With the fabrication side of things all but finished the car went off to Nick and the boys at Wanaka Glass and Collision for final prep work and a nice coat of Ford True Red paint. Pukka Signs then added the sign work and stripes to finish off the look of the car. Now that the car is finished, it’s time to get some much needed seat time. The ’65 has only done one race season to date, and Barry is still in the process of setting up the car, and as he irons out the bugs and gently dials it in, the grin on his face gets a little bigger with every outing on the track.

Auto Channel Issue #43 February 2022

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SHEDDING POUNDS DIY CARBON FIBRE COMPONENTS ARE BECOMING MORE AND MORE POPULAR, BUT KNOWING WHERE TO START CAN BE CONFUSING. ZAC FROM CARBOGLASS LAYS DOWN THE KNOWLEDGE SO YOU TOO CAN PRODUCE QUALITY BACKYARD COMPONENTS eight is the biggest enemy of performance, and while some choose to ignore the benefits of reducing it as much as possible, preferring real steel and chrome, for those who embrace a serious weight loss program, carbon fibre is a must as a weight-watchers weapon. With many online how-tos, some showing the right and some the not-so-right ways of doing it, tapping into the knowledge of a professional is the best way to get a foolproof system for producing parts in your shed

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Auto Channel Issue #43 February 2022

that will not only save you weight, but look good doing it. For the purpose of this guide Zac is covering off the build of a set of rear widebody carbon guards: “This is a race car, not a show car, but the principles are the same. I’d probably just be a little fussier on the details with a show car or street car. The Civic belongs to a mate of mine, and over the course of a couple of weekends, we whipped these up. He did most of the work, I mainly got into the CC & Dry and supervised.”

SAFETY FIRST Before getting elbow deep into it, you’re gonna want to make sure you have your PPE (personal protective equipment) sorted — latex gloves at the very bare minimum, and carry out the work in a well-ventilated area. If you’re cutting or grinding, make sure you wear a mask — there is no such thing as healthy dust, so keep yourself safe.

SORT YOUR MOULD In this case, the mould was taken from the quarter panel, which was already wearing a fiberglass widebody over fender. It’s important that your surface is perfect. Any imperfection, no matter the size, will directly transfer onto your mould and then onto your carbon product. Zac says: “Make sure you have used 2k paint on the plug [original part], if not the paint will undoubtedly fry up.” Next, you’ll want to use plasticine or modelling clay to fill all of your gaps. What you are trying to achieve here is to stop having your mould mechanically lock to the plug. You can’t have anywhere where the resin or glass can go back in on itself or you’ll never separate the two without damaging the mould. For this particular project, there were two areas to sort. The dimples where the widebody bolted to the original body and the seam where the over fenders and body meet. Ensure your modelling clay is nice and smooth. On edges where your new carbon part will run right to the edge of the body, you’ll need to create some flanges. These do not need to be flash. Zac simply hot-glued them on from foam that will be removed from the body later. Masking tape will protect your paint work, if that’s a concern. Once you’re all prepped and ready to lay glass on your plug, the first step is to create a nonstick barrier on your paint surface using a release agent. “PVA release agent is hands down the most foolproof release system — it’s also my go-to if I’m unsure of the substrate.” For best results, spray the PVA on, but if you don’t have a spray gun, a foam brush will net you a great result. Aim for a smooth, even coating — again, any texture introduced here will transfer onto your mould. A single coat will be plenty. The next layer is the gel coat. This will become the surface on your mould that you lay your carbon on further down the track. Zac went with, and recommends going with, polyester for both the resin and gel coat. Be very precise when measuring out the quantities and don’t try to mix too much at once — never more than one litre at a time! Your mix ratio of catalyst is only two percent. “You want to brush the gel coat on nice and even. You’re aiming for a thickness of .5mm; anything less will fail. Half a litre per m² coverage is a good way to gauge quantity.” Once cured, it’s now time for the chop strand (CSM). The aim here is for four or five layers, but you’ll need to lay up each layer and let it cure before laying the next. Doing it all at once will end in tears (trust us). “You’ll need a laminating roller, which you can get from a composite supplier, or cheap chip brushes work great too. Pre-wet the gel coat with resin and lay on the dry CSM, then wet out with more resin, ensuring you remove all the air bubbles.” Wait till it cures and repeat the process until you achieve the four- to five-layer thickness. Once it’s fully cured, it’s time to demould. Do this using small wedges of wood, carefully driving them between the two surfaces. Depending on the shape, it should be removed with ease. Trim and sand your mould edges, giving them a sand to ensure you don’t have to deal with sharp edges — this stuff will cut you.

CARBON TIME If your plug surface prep was on point, your gel coat surface will be perfect and ready for release agent. You can use PVA release agent, but a better option is to use a release wax as it ensures you have a perfectly smooth surface. Additionally, if you want to make multiple parts, the wax work is already sorted, and will last four or five lay-ups. Build your wax surface up as Zac says: Karate Kid–style — wax on, wax off. Do this three or four times. The key to achieving maximum strength with composites like carbon or Kevlar is running minimum resin. This is achieved with a process known as resin infusion, where you bag up the part and draw resin through using a vacuum pump. While you can simply do a wet lay-up as you did to make the mould itself, using a vacuum pump will result in a part 10 times better in every respect. Parts like these guards only require three layers of cloth with an added strip where the fender will be bolted on. The visible layer is 240g satin, and behind that is a layer of 200g double bias, and then the outer strip is added again in 240g, followed by the final layer which is hybrid Kevlar. The reason the inside layer is Kevlar is because it is more flexible than carbon so less susceptible to stone chips, etc. Carbon is stiffer so gives the needed strength with fewer layers — therefore less weight! To avoid the weave being distorted, or having it bridge over swags etc., use a contact adhesive such as 3M Super 77 so that you you can lay it into the mould and ensure that it sits in there perfectly. Lay all your layers of cloth down dry.

BAG IT UP Now it’s time to set up for the infusion. First, you’ll need to add two more layers to your guard: a layer of peel ply and another of infusion mesh. Cut your mesh back from the edge of the part to reduce the risk of bleeding all the resin out. Using a decent-grade plastic, cut two large pieces big enough to envelope your mould. On one sheet, lay some double-sided gum tape around the edge. Sit this under your mould, then lay the other over the top and stick them together. Before laying over the top piece of plastic, you’ll need an exit and entry point for the resin. Electrical spiral cabling is ideal as a vacuum line. I tend to do a complete perimeter around the mould, with a central resin feed line. This consists of cheap plastic tubing (sturdy enough to not collapse under vacuum) that will attach to your vacuum pump and resin pot. Use some gum tape to seal the hole once you lay over the top plastic sheet. Take your time to seal all the edges. It needs to be perfectly airtight. Once you’re satisfied with the seal, work the bag into any nooks and crannies to ensure there is no bridging of the bag or laminate. Mix up your resin and start the infusion. “For something thin like this, I’d tend to mix up infusion resin at about 1.5 times the weight of the cloth. This allows for a bit of waste and filling of the lines.” Flick on the pump, and watch the resin flow through your fabric. Once all of the laminate is wet through and you start to get a little bit of bleed towards the vacuum line, clamp the feed line off. Let sit for 24 hours to cure.

Auto Channel Issue #43 February 2022

“Once it’s all cured, demould with your wedges, trim to fit, and my favourite bit, bust out the scales! In this case, the original guards were about 5kg each, plus we managed to remove much more steel from the rear — almost up to the window. This, combined with the new carbon guards weighing just over a kilogram, saved around about 15 kilos overall.”

ALUMINIUM PIPING BALL JOINTS BODY / SUBFRAME MOUNTS BUMP STOPS COUPLINGS / DAMPERS CRANK PULLEYS DIFF MOUNTS ENGINE MOUNTS HANGER MOUNTS

HARMONIC BALANCERS IDLER PULLEYS / TENSIONERS INTAKE HOSES RACK ENDS / MOUNTS SILICONE HOSES STRUT MOUNTS SUSPENSION BUSHES / ARMS SWAY BAR LINKS / BUSHES TIE ROD ENDS

i C l R a

i c E D pe

UN S

R A sts

WHANGAREI . HENDERSON . PENROSE . HAMILTON . PALMERSTON NORTH . LOWER HUTT . CHRISTCHURCH

Products

The next generation of LED beacons Hella’s K-LED Rebelution is a game changer in the warning lights sector. It emits a 360 degree yellow warning light from a flat and shallow domeless design, making the K-LED Rebelution a high-visibility yet low-profile vehicle beacon. The LED technology, materials, and design ensure durability and reliability, even in continuous operation. Find a distributor at hella.co.nz. See chicanetools.co.nz for stockists and pricing.

Tidy tool time

Go trilobular The trilobular shape of Narva’s new AeroTech LED strobe lights is more aerodynamic, and also increases the visible surface area. Add the power of LEDs, and AeroTech warning lamps are up to six times brighter than the required SAE standard. The light but durable polycarbonate lenses and bases are sealed from water and dust (IP67), and solid state circuitry means no moving parts, enabling a seven-year warranty. They operate on voltages from 10-33V and have three power outputs — 36, 45, and 90 watts. Flashing can be synchronised for up to six units. For more information, see www.griffithsequipment.co.nz.

The range of sturdy Chicane tool chests not only look the business, but also help to keep your workshop functioning smoothly, providing a place for all tools in seven-drawer chests right through to comprehensive garage trolleys. They are made from powder-coated, workshopgrade steel panels mounted on a reinforced steel frame body, with solid aluminium handles. Gas struts on the tool chests keep lids under control. The drawers roll open on heavy-duty ball bearings, and the trolleys roll on lockable castors. See chicanetools.co.nz for stockists and pricing.

Change truck tyres faster and fuss free The heavy-duty, electro-hydraulic Steiner ST585 truck tyre changer will mount and demount drop centre, tubeless rims of truck and bus tyres. Equipped with a swing arm, bead breaking roller it reduces manual effort and speeds up tyre changes. It comes with a mobile operating console for improved safety and convenience, ideal for operators servicing fleets of trucks, or PSV. Contact Treadway Equipped for pricing, or for more information go to treadwayequipped.co.nz, or call 0800 436 436.

Auto Channel Issue #43 February 2022

Strong arm tactics Designed for workshops where space is at a premium, the Automaster mobile single post car hoist is totally mobile and can be moved by one person with ease once unloaded. The AM-7251 boasts a 2.5-tonne capacity and features extendable lifting arms with double-screw adjustable lift pads, and a 12-piece adaptor kit for vans and 4x4s. See automaster.co.nz, call 0800 214 604, or email info@automaster.co.nz for more information.

Launch and retrieve with ease The Fulton XLT powered winch makes it a cinch to load and unload boats up to 8m in length. A convenient wireless remote lets you stand back and control operations from the best vantage point. It is corrosion resistant, features a fabric strap, and there’s a manual override in case of power loss. Call 0800 876 526 for resellers. RRP $915.

The cleaning power of walnuts AFi’s Walnut Blaster uses walnut powder to remove carbon deposits in a vehicle’s input and exhaust ports. Walnut shells are tougher than carbon deposits, but softer than metal, making walnut powder the ideal medium to clean these components thoroughly without damaging them. For more information and pricing contact cooldrive.co.nz.

Koba for all KOBA maintenance-free calcium batteries have sizes to suit any size of automotive or commercial vehicle. These batteries are designed to provide safe, reliable starting power with improved durability and cycle life. Their enveloped separators provide low electric resistance, maximising a battery’s electrical performance and minimising selfdischarge. The durable and safe nature of these batteries makes them an ideal choice for everyday automotive or commercial use. For more information on KOBA batteries, visit www.rjbatt.co.nz.

Parts Connection brings the sunshine KNOWING CUSTOMERS WERE DOING IT TOUGH LAST YEAR, PARTS CONNECTION DECIDED TO SPREAD A LITTLE JOY arts Connection is making a name for itself for going the extra mile for its customers and the person driving that approach is marketing manager Pam McNickle. In the midst of level 3 lockdown in Auckland, Pam decided what customers might appreciate most was a bit of human contact — a little sunshine to take people out of their closedin world. The question was how to do this in a contactless way? “Well,” says Pam, “You put your long-serving BBQ truck out on the road, delivering donuts! “Every day since September — and thousands of freshly baked donuts later — we have brought a little sunshine and sweetness to our customers’ days,” she says. “It was so good to be able to turn up in the big yellow truck, don a mask, leave the donuts at a ‘drop off’ point, and give the customers a wave and a smile — you really have to smile with your eyes when you’re wearing a mask!” laughs Pam. Her clear favourite donut, which also proved popular with customers, was a “Parts Connection yellow” donut with lemon curd and custard. As the alert levels reduced, Pam put the truck’s coffee machine back into action and also offered cold drinks to ramp up the customers’ star treatment. Pam enjoys the delivery run and the feedback so much that she is keen to get back on the road again this year, still delivering delicious donuts in the morning but also cooking up a storm with BBQ burgers at lunchtime at a different location each day. Not only does Parts Connection visit their customers with treats, Pam has also decided to rerun Parts Connection’s “pretty awesome” Gold Rush promotion, for the third year in a row. It starts up again this month — February. The prize pool this year is $200,000 in cash. Qualifying for gold rush cards is easy. “All you have to do is purchase a part from any Parts Connection member and you will receive a lucky gold rush card with a number on it. Visit the Goldrush promotion website — pcgold.co.nz — and check the number to see whether you are an instant cash winner,” Pam explains. The Gold Rush promotion offers a prize pool of a minimum of $20k every month, and more if the top cash prize of the previous month isn’t claimed. In that case, the biggest gold rush nugget jackpots into the next month’s prize pool. Over the past two years Parts Connection has paid out prizes to hundreds of lucky winners throughout New Zealand. Parts Connection is one of New Zealand’s leading dismantler groups. For more than 30 years, Parts Connection has provided customers with

Auto Channel Issue #43 February 2022

quality new and recycled car parts. Its 16 members operate under the Parts Connection banner and each member provides a specialist parts service for their specialist make of vehicle. Because they are specialists, their customers receive fast, reliable, accurate, and friendly service. Pam says that’s what makes them stand out from the rest. “Wherever possible all their recycled parts are tested, checked, and cleaned, and come with a specialist parts guarantee so customers can be confident with their purchase.” Another benefit of dealing with the Parts Connection group is its large stock-holding of parts, giving customers more confidence the part they need will be available. Parts Connection’s computerised labelling and barcoding system enables staff to pick and pack parts correctly, and its nationwide delivery service means a same-day or next-day service to most parts of the country. Parts Connection is continually looking at ways to improve its processes in automotive recycling and is committed to ensuring safe environmental practices at all sites. Partnering with Parts Connection means customers are dealing with a professional organisation with a wealth of experience — and also one with a heart. For more information, see partsconnection.co.nz or call 0800 70 70 40.

45 Rennie Drive, Mangere parts@1stparts.co.nz (09) 638 6439

RUST REMOVAL + RUST PROTECTION

Vehicles with high exposure to our marine environment are susceptible to premature rust and structural corrosion from sea spray and salt. Autoblast specialise in vehicle underbody rust removal and protection.

If you’re wanting to protect your vehicles, contact us today for a FREE APPRAISAL. FRANCHISES AVAILABLE, ENQUIRE TODAY.  (09) 443 6574 • Glenfield, Auckland  @autoblastnz • www.autoblast.co.nz

Supplying to the Trade

New Zealand Wide - Wholesale Only Warehouses in Auckland, Christchurch, Geraldine and Invercargill

• • • • •

Quality brands Prices to the trade Premium and budget tyre options available Excellent profit centre for tyre shops and garages Online ordering 24 hours

FREE PHONE: 0800 80 90 96

EMAIL: blairs@blairs.co.nz WEB: www.tyreorder.co.nz

Auto Channel has unsurpassed reach into the wider Automotive trade, direct mailed to over 11,000 business owners in New Zealand. Call me to today to discuss ways I can help you grow your business through NZ’s highest circulating automotive trade publication! Mark Everleigh - 09 222 1729

Supplier directory

PA R Be TS

a S ra ring UP di s P at , d LY or iff s, s, en al SE gi ter RV ne n O IC co ato ils E ,g C m rs, po br re O as N ne ak e, S nt e c co UM s, om ol A W ba p an B O tte o L t R ,t E rie nen Ra K S r an s, ts gs SH tra , s cl , lu O flu ea b P ile id ne ric C rp , rs an O b ar u , c ts N ts l b S SU ar , P U s, flu ca PE M SP re , a AB sh Ti E ,a e L e N es irc ros ES bu rod SIO on ol sh s, N s, es ba A ab , b ll j N ra ea oin D siv AF rin ts ST es TE , E gs ra E , Au R , s ck R di M I h oc en NG dr o, AR ks ds es pe K , s rf ET up or , p m AC W ai an C nt ce ES O /w p S D RK ra ar O ia S p, ts, RI gn H ha o O dr bo ES nd sti P iv d el yk to cs, EQ in it ol ho U e s, s, is IP RE sp ts M PA ec , e E N Au IR ia lec T lis t to t s ric en e SER er s, gi lec V vi po ne tr IC ce w i re cal E eq er bu , g W ui to ild ea pm ol IN r s b ,s o W DS en s, u in C t sp xes d m sc RE en , c irr re E sio yli or en N n n s, s S , c der w , c AN oo h ip hi D W er p lin ead H s, re G g s, E LA O E p c a us i EM LS S r to s, S re re A m s pa p ND fit ide irs lac T m gl , c em Y en as R o t s, ns en ES AU um t, TO t Re ab yre s R le s, s, fit su tora EFI in tin pp ti N ne g lie on ISH r t /b s, , sm E ub ala sp a R es nc ra sh S in y g, pa rep in ai te rs rs , a ,p u ai tont b co od rre y ct io n

YOUR GUIDE TO NEW ZEALAND'S LEADING AUTOMOTIVE TRADE SUPPLIERS

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0800 472 787 0800 200 100 0800 445 889 0800 333 125 aecs.net 06 874 9077 bntnz.co.nz 09 414 3200 hcb.co.nz or 0800 422 228

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precisionequipment.co.nz 0800 246 478

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jasoceania.co.nz or 0800 527 335

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dieseldistributors.co.nz or 09 265 0622 09 836 6673

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autolign.co.nz or 09 574 2288 tatp.co.nz or 0800 268 266

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smitsgroup.co.nz or 0800 227 422

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griffithsequipment.co.nz or 09 525 4575

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parts@1stautoparts.co.nz or 09 638 6439 mountshop.co.nz or 0508 866 686

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bmw.co.nz or 0508 269 727 cyb.co.nz or 09 978 6666

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0800 465 855 0800 549 429

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automaster.co.nz or 0800 214 604 centurydistributors.co.nz

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patchrubber.co.nz or 0508 837 248 dtm.co.nz or 0800 621 233 penriteoil.co.nz or 0800 533 698 nzmotoroils.com or 0800 942 645

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0800 383 566 06 306 8446 or blackfern.coop redarcelectronics.co.nz 0800 757 333 or fenixautoparts.co.nz

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smitsgroup.co.nz or 0800 227 422

crc.co.nz or 09 272 2700 rjbatt.co.nz or 09 636 5980

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Auto Channel Issue #43 February 2022

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treadwayequipped.co.nz 0800 436 436 sales@advancefc.co.nz 0800 538 058 holden.co.nz/dealers

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07 850 5240

0800 188 122

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mmnz.co.nz or 0800 54 53 52

cooldrive.co.nz or 0800 327 868

ryco.co.nz or 0800 838 222

ford.co.nz or 0800 367 369

tyreorder.co.nz or 0800 80 90 96

moreyoil.co.nz or 09 813 9200

gearwrench.co.nz

Napa.co.nz or 0800 800 073

trojan.co.nz or 0800 876 526

fuchs.co.nz or 09 828 3255

bendix.co.nz

09 636 5428 or sales@clutchindustries.co.nz

nz.macnaught.com or 0800 023 510

The Auto Channel supplier directory is your easy reference for sourcing a range of automotive products and services.

This directory is a paid service for businesses who supply to the New Zealand automotive trade. To secure your inclusion, contact Mark Everleigh on 09 222 1729 or mark.everleigh@parkside.co.nz.

TIME TO UPDATE THOSE 2007 COPIES OF WOMAN’S WEEKLY IN YOUR WAITING ROOM? ON

TAKE ADVANTAGE OF OUR MAGAZINE SUBSCRIPTION PACKAGE AND HAVE FIVE NEW MAGAZINES DELIVERED TO YOUR DOOR FOR THE NEXT SIX MONTHS!

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0800 727 574 OR MAGSTORE.NZ/BUSINESS

a S ra ring UP di s P at , d LY or iff s, s, en al SE gi ter RV ne n O IC co ato ils E ,g C m rs, po br re O as N ne ak e, S nt e c co UM s, om ol A W ba p an B O tte o L t R , rie nen ES Ra K t r an s, ts gs SH tra , s cl , lu O fl ea b P ile ui ne ric C rp d, rs an O b ar u , c ts N ts l b S SU ar , P U s, flu ca PE M SP re , a AB sh Ti E ,a e L e N es ir ros ES bu rod SIO co o sh s, N n ls, es ba A ab , b ll j N ra ea oin D siv AF rin ts ST es TE ,r E g , s, ac ER Au R sh k d M oc en ING dr io, AR ks ds es pe K , s rf ET up or , p m AC W ai an C nt ce ES O /w p S D RK ra ar O ia S g p, ts, RI ha no HO dr bo ES s nd ti P iv d el yk c E to s, Q in it ol ho U e s, s, is IP RE sp ts M PA ec , e E N Au IR ia lec T lis t to t s ric en e SER er s, gi lec V vi po ne tr IC ce w i re cal E eq er bu , g W ui to ild ea pm ol IN r s b , W DS en s, o s u x in C t sp es d m sc RE en , c irr re E sio yli or en N nd n S s, s , c er w , c AN oo h ip hi D W er p lin ead H s, re G g s, E O E pa LA c u EM LS st irs SS om , s re re A pa p ND fit ide irs lac T m gl , c em Y en as R o t s, e ns n E S AU um t, TO t Re ab yre s R le s, s, fit su tora EFI in tin pp ti N ne g lie on ISH r t /b s, , sm E ub ala sp a R es nc ra sh S in y g, pa rep in ai te rs rs , a ,p u ai tont b co od rre y ct io n

PA R Be TS

Great future for the right team NEW ZEALAND’S COASTAL ENVIRONMENT PROVIDES A NATIONWIDE OPPORTUNITY TO PROTECT VEHICLES — ESPECIALLY 4WD TOW WAGONS — FROM SALTY SEA AIR utoblast’s AutoLAST rust protection system is now widely acknowledged as the best way to protect vehicles operating in coastal environments. Vehicles from around the country are currently sent to this Auckland business to get the unique AutoLAST treatment. David Kirkham’s North Shore business now has more work than it can handle. David has opted to franchise the business rather than open branches in other areas. Being an owner-operator himself, David decided setting up owners who would be personally invested in the success of their business was the best way to ensure the quality that Autoblast had become known for, and the success of the group. David has spent months working with expert franchise consultants on the franchise process to give new businesses the best possible head start. He says the selection process is also designed to find the best quality franchisees. “We are not in a rush,” says David. “We are getting a lot of interested applicants, but it’s vital that we get it right — especially the first one. This is a proven business but the first franchise is different. We know a franchise in a new area could grow very quickly, but it’s a big investment. It has to be right.”

As Ford Rangers and other utes continue to be the top-selling new vehicles in New Zealand, David says the market continues to expand. Owners expect these vehicles to be tough and they use them off-road, often in coastal environments. Or they tow the boats they have bought because overseas holidays are out — again exposing them to the rusting process. David says manufacturers aren’t at fault for not building vehicles to marine standards, even though they can develop rust within two or three years. “We have special building codes for houses built near the sea, so it makes sense that vehicles that spend time at the coast need extra protection.” The AutoLAST system sprays a special coating on all of the underside components, which also selfheals if hit by stones. It offers vastly more protection than the usual wax or oil solutions that are typically sprayed inside chassis rails. “We’ve got a great business and a great process but, for the sake of everyone involved, we need great franchisees,” says David. For more information on Autoblast’s product offerings, check out the extensive resources at autoblast.co.nz, or call David Kirkham on 09 443 6574.

Auto Channel is the best way to reach the wider automotive industry. The publication is direct mailed to 11,306 New Zealand businesses in the following automotive sectors: Automotive workshops Parts importers and distributors Transmission specialists Automotive recyclers Towing operators Panel beaters and painters Crash repairers Tyre dealers Suspension and underbody repairers Steering specialists Towing operators Auto-electrical repairers New- and used-car dealers Air-conditioning repairers Heavy-machinery dealers Trucking and transport

Auto Channel Issue No. 44 distributed 1 March Editorial: editor@autochannel.co.nz Advertising: Michael White michael.white@parkside.co.nz All other enquiries to: autochannel.co.nz Auto Channel is produced by Parkside Media, publishers of NZ’s three biggest-selling automotive magazines: NZ Performance Car, New Zealand Classic Car, and NZV8.

MONTHS

INTEREST

FREE

Valid 1-28 February 2022.

Talk to your Rep or Branch Manager today. *$3,000 (ex GST) and over for Capricorn and $5,000 (ex GST) and over for MARAC and CrediFlex. Offer valid 1-28 February 2022. Excludes clearance and prior quotations, not available in conjunction with any other offer. While stocks last. No rainchecks. Terms and conditions apply.

National Sales Manager

Kevin Odgers

027 279 1204

National Technical & Training Manager

Bruce Francis

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