Australian Car Mechanic 0925 by Prime Group

It’s enough to make any sane person shudder.

Rolling

into spring

Tyres and wheels — a mechanic’s bread and butter

Have you ever seen a car come into your shop — looked at its tyres — and thought ‘how have they gotten away with those for so long?’

The average motorist mightn’t want their tyres whittled down to the bone.

But every so often there’ll be someone quite content in letting their car tyres go balder than Peter Garrett.

Wheel and tyre maintenance is a crucial aspect of ensuring vehicle safety and performance.

It’s hard to ignore the importance of wheels/tyres to a vehicle — it’s how they get around.

Without them, cars would just be very small metal houses.

As the weather warms up, the demands on tyres increase, and the consequences of failure become more severe.

As mechanics, it’s essential that you’re equipped to diagnose and repair wheel and tyre issues efﬁciently and effectively.

To stay ahead of the curve, mechanics need to be aware of the latest best practices for wheel and tyre maintenance.

This includes utilising specialised equipment to detect subtle signs of wear and damage.

Ensure precise alignment and balancing to optimise tyre life and vehicle performance.

Finally, staying up-to-date with the latest repair methods and technologies to ensure safe and reliable ﬁxes.

In this issue, we’ll be featuring expert insights and advice on wheel and tyre maintenance, including the latest trends and technologies in the ﬁeld.

From tyre selection to wheel alignment, we’ve got you covered to help stay ahead of the curve.

As the seasons change and the weather warms up, it’s time to take action.

By reﬁning our skills, updating our knowledge, and staying current with the latest best practices, we can ensure our workshops remain at the forefront of automotive repair. Let’s work together to provide the best possible service to our customers and drive the industry forward.

Harry Murtough – Editor

or 100 years, Penrite has been a staple in not only Australian oil, but one of the most recognisable brands nationwide. The family-owned operation that started from small beginnings has grown massively in the last century. In this edition, we look back at the history of Penrite as it celebrates its 100-year birthday.

Oct 21, 2025

Dec 3, 2025

18, 2026

CEO

Christine Clancy

Sales Director

Danny Hernandez

Editor Harry Murtough

harry.murtough@primecreative.com.au

Client Success

Arianna Lucini

arianna.lucini@primecreative.com.au

Art Director/Design

Daz Woolley

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Website www.mechanics-mag.com.au

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Iain Curry

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Penrite Oil

Copyright Australian Car Mechanic magazine is owned by Prime Creative Media and published by John Murphy. All material in Australian Car Mechanic magazine is copyright and no part may be reproduced or copied in any form or by any means (graphic, electronicor mechanical including information and retrieval systems) without written permission of the publisher. The Editor welcomes contributions but reserves the right to accept or reject any material. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of information, Prime Creative Media will not accept responsibility for errors or omissions or for any consequences arising from reliance on information published. The opinions expressed in Australian Car Mechanic magazine are not necessarily the opinions of, or endorsed by the publisher unless otherwise stated.

Articles

All articles submitted for publication become the property of the publisher. The Editor reserves the right to adjust any article to conform with the magazine format.

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Century of excellence

Penrite Oil approaches 100 years of high-performance, family driven legacy

Penrite Oil, one of Australia’s most trusted names in the automotive industry, is set to celebrate its 100th anniversary in 2026.

This milestone reﬂects a century of innovation, commitment to quality, and a family-driven legacy that has shaped the company into a respected leader in the automotive industry.

Entrepreneurial spirit

The story of Penrite begins with Les Mecoles, a young and ambitious entrepreneur who started his business journey while still a student at Melbourne High School in the 1920s. Les began by importing oils from overseas and acting as

an agent for established brands such as Shell, Autolene, Trogon Oils, and Rigolin.

His school notebooks were ﬁlled with sales ﬁgures and oil blend formulas, showcasing his early passion for business and technical knowledge.

On his sixteenth birthday, March 6, 1926, Les ofﬁcially launched his own company.

Operating from his family home in St Kilda, Melbourne, he blended oils on his mother’s kitchen stove and delivered them using his father’s wheelbarrow.

Later, as his customer base grew, he relied on a courier service for deliveries.

Family stories recall that Les even sold his prized leather jacket to fund his ﬁrst batch of oil.

Snapshot

Les was also deeply interested in photography, cars, and horse racing.

He often carried a camera or racing guide and even served as the photographer at his own wedding, leaving the reception early with his brother to test-drive a car.

These passions reﬂected his curiosity and entrepreneurial spirit, traits that would shape his business approach.

In the early years, Les operated a petrol service station on Hawthorn Road, Caulﬁeld, selling oil and petrol from the curb side.

As the business grew, he purchased his ﬁrst factory, allowing him to expand operations.

By 1932, he relocated the business to

Images: Penrite

Penrite Oil’s journey from blending oil on a kitchen stove to a global leader in lubricants is a testament to innovation, dedication, and family values.

Toby and Margaret Dymond join Penrite Oil in celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2026, marking a century of commitment to quality and innovation in the automotive industry.

Les Mecoles, the founder of Penrite Oil, was a young and ambitious entrepreneur who started his business journey in the 1920s with a passion for business and technical knowledge.

625 Bridge Road, Richmond, Melbourne, acquiring the property for just £75 — a site now occupied by a McDonald’s restaurant. Over the following years, Les continued to grow the business, acquiring additional properties across Abbotsford and Richmond to import, distribute, and manufacture oil under the name L.H. Mecoles Oil Merchant.

In 1934, his brother Stan joined the company, helping further expansion.

PA-grade

Recognising the need for a distinct brand, Les initially sketched the name “Oil-Rite” on the back of an envelope.

However, when this name was already taken, Stan suggested “Pen-Rite,” combining “Pen” for Pennsylvania crude oil, regarded as the ﬁnest at the time,

with “Rite” to signify the right oil. In 1936, Les registered the name Penrite with the Commonwealth of Australia and became a member of the Pennsylvanian Grade Crude Oil Association, enabling him to import 100 per cent pure Pennsylvania crude oil for blending.

During the 1930s, Penrite experienced signiﬁcant growth, moving to 71 Hoddle Street, Richmond, and expanding distribution to other Australian states.

By the time World War II began, Penrite offered not only oils and lubricants but also greases, automotive batteries, and workshop tools to meet growing customer demand. Records show that Penrite played an important role in supporting the Allied war effort, producing various products for both the European and Paciﬁc campaigns.

Penrite Oil’s commitment to performance and innovation is reﬂected in its highperformance products and sponsorship of motorsport and community events, including the Penrite Racing Supercars team.

The plain green wartime Penrite tins marked a practical shift from Les’s usual marketing style, reﬂecting the needs of the time.

A January 1942 stocktake revealed that Penrite held £11,000 worth of stock, though the staff had been reduced to fewer than 10 people.

Throughout this challenging period, Les and Stan ran the operations, ensuring production for the Australian government.

Hardened

After the war, Australia still faced extensive rationing, affecting manufacturing and daily life. By 1951, Penrite Oil had grown to become a Pty Limited company and was promoted as the ‘Specialist in lubricating oils and greases for every purpose’.

Les travelled frequently to Brisbane, Sydney, and Adelaide, expanding Penrite’s reach, and began hiring salespeople, dedicating effort to training them in the art of salesmanship.

One of his earliest recruits was Ron Walker, who would later become chairman of Fairfax Ltd, Lord Mayor of Melbourne, and head of Formula One.

In the late 1960s and early 1970s, the Abbotsford site was acquired by the Victorian government to make way for a new freeway, and Les brought a new facility at 3 Cross Street, Brunswick.

During this time, Les’s health began to decline after battling cancer twice.

With no children to inherit the business, he decided to sell.

He identiﬁed John Dymond, a young oil additives supplier and close associate, as a potential successor.

Penrite Oil remains a family-owned business thanks to the values instilled by John Dymond, ensuring the company’s values and legacy continue.

With support from John’s wife, Margaret, the Dymond’s negotiated the purchase, and Les helped ﬁnance the deal to ensure the company remained in capable hands. The sale was ﬁnalised in March 1979, and Les passed away shortly after, on August 23, 1979.

JD’s journey

John Dymond, known as “JD”, started his career as an apprentice engineer at the Vauxhall motor factory in Luton, England.

He and Margaret migrated to Australia in the late 1950s, where John worked with British Petroleum on their long-life fuel additive program.

His work allowed him to travel across Australia and New Zealand, gaining insight into the local automotive market and identifying a need for oils designed speciﬁcally for Australian conditions. After leaving BP, John joined Lubrizol, a US-based additive company, developing oil and lubricant solutions tailored for Australia.

After purchasing Penrite, JD quickly identiﬁed a key gap in the Australian lubricants market: most oils were designed for North American or European conditions and were not optimal for Australian cars and climate. He focused on developing oils speciﬁcally engineered for local conditions and expanded Penrite’s

presence internationally, including New Zealand and Europe. In 1981, JD launched the Penrite HPR – High Performance Range, a line of multi-grade, full zinc oils featuring advanced “Extra Ten” technology. This innovative range became the ﬁrst of its kind in Australia and quickly gained popularity, solidifying Penrite’s reputation as a leader in the high-performance oil market.

In the late 1980s, John launched his ﬁrst major marketing campaign, showcasing classic, racing, and collectible cars belonging to his friends. The campaign emphasised the importance of using the best oil for valuable automobiles, connecting emotionally with car enthusiasts

Not just on the roads; Penrite is a major partner with the National PRO MX Series.

and positioning Penrite as a trusted brand. By the mid to late 1990s, Penrite relocated its main blending plant to a purpose-built facility at 88 Lewis Road, Wantirna. The “Obsession with Oil” campaign connected customers with their cars, portraying vehicles as extensions of themselves and reinforcing the idea that Penrite offered superior protection and performance. This campaign, supported by television, radio, and retail promotions, resonated with a wide audience, from race car drivers to owners of rotary engines, V8s, and turbocharged cars.

Marsey’s milestone

Margaret Dymond, affectionately known as ‘Marsey’ or ‘Marg,’ has been a cornerstone of Penrite for over 45 years. Currently the owner of Penrite Oil and known for her warmth and dedication, she engages with young motorsport competitors, car enthusiasts, and local events, all while maintaining a low proﬁle. Her commitment to family, Australian manufacturing, and the company’s values has been vital to

Penrite’s ongoing success. Today, Penrite continues under the leadership of Toby Dymond as CEO, with other family members, Nigel, Fleur, and Jon, holding signiﬁcant roles. The company remains family-owned, proudly Australian-made, and committed to high-performance products suited to local conditions.

“I’m incredibly proud to be part of Penrite’s story as we approach 100 years,” Penrite Oil CEO Toby Dymond said.

“Our history is built on vision, hard work, and family values that continue to guide us today. I’m just as passionate about the future — ensuring Penrite remains at the forefront of innovation, supporting the automotive community, and delivering the high-performance products Australians can trust for the next century.”

Penrite also actively supports motorsport and community events, including sponsorship of the Penrite Racing V8 Supercars team, Naming rights sponsor of the National PRO MX Series, Penrite Racing Empire Kawasaki team (ProMX), the Penrite

Hattah Desert Race, and the National V8 Superboats. Penrite also sponsor some 250 brand ambassadors throughout Australia and New Zealand. These partnerships reﬂect Penrite’s ongoing commitment to performance, innovation, and engagement with Australia’s automotive and motorsport communities.

As Penrite approaches its centenary, the company has planned large-scale celebrations, activations, promotions, and exclusive experiences for its customers and partners.

Penrite’s journey from blending oil on a kitchen stove to a global leader in lubricants is a testament to innovation, dedication, and family values. The company’s centenary in 2026 will celebrate this rich history and the continuing legacy of providing high-quality, Australian-made products. With a focus on performance, innovation, and community, Penrite looks forward to another 100 years of success, honouring its roots while embracing the future of the automotive industry.

You’d be hard-pressed to ﬁnd an Aussie motor sport that doesn’t have Penrite involved in one way or another.

CORE PRINCIPLES

Power pairing

Schaefﬂer Vehicle Lifetime Solutions strengthens its market leadership by expanding its powertrain solutions portfolio with Vitesco products

The integration of electronics and mechanics has become central to ensuring vehicle performance, efﬁciency, and compliance.

At the heart of this transformation are three components: sensors, actuators, and control units.

These systems form a complex but cohesive network that enables vehicles to operate more intelligently, cleanly, and efﬁciently. Sensors are the vigilant observers within a vehicle’s ecosystem. They constantly monitor parameters such as temperature, pressure, and emissions.

For instance, NOx sensors precisely and continuously measure the nitrogen concentration in exhaust gases — a critical function in reducing environmental impact and ensuring cleaner emissions.

Actuators are the doers.

Acting on the data provided by sensors, they execute physical actions to ﬁne-tune vehicle systems.

Today’s advanced mechatronic actuators allow for extremely precise control over engine and drivetrain functions, optimising performance and reducing fuel consumption.

Control Units serve as the brain behind these operations.

They process the inﬂux of sensor data and issue commands to actuators, ensuring real-time adjustments that keep the engine running smoothly and in compliance with ever-stricter emissions standards.

These intelligent units are fundamental to not only lowering emissions but also reducing operating costs and extending the lifespan of vehicle systems. Together, these components form the backbone of modern automotive design—an integrated network of sensing, decision-making, and action. And as automotive technology continues to evolve, so too must the aftermarket solutions that support it.

Schaefﬂer and Vitesco Technologies join forces

Recognising the importance of these advanced systems, Schaefﬂer’s Vehicle Lifetime Solutions (VLS) division has made a major strategic move by integrating Vitesco Technologies’ product portfolio.

This enhancement of Schaefﬂer’s offering in the independent aftermarket signiﬁcantly strengthens its capabilities in providing cutting-edge emissions-related technologies, including high-precision NOx sensors, control units, and advanced mechatronic actuators.

“The integration of the Vitesco portfolio is a strategic and significant milestone for Schaeffler VLS,” Schaeffler Vehicle Lifestime Solutions Pacific Head Warren Barnett said.

“Sales channel partners and workshops will beneﬁt from a stable supply chain, high-quality products, and comprehensive technical support across all powertrain types relevant for the Aftermarket. Further

Schaefﬂer Vitesco Diesel Injector.

expansion of range will follow in the coming years.”

Beneﬁts of the integration for mechanics

• Stable supply chain: sales channel partners gain direct access to vital technologies in trusted original equipment (OE) quality.

• Technical support: Independent workshops beneﬁt from expert assistance across a range of modern powertrain systems.

• High-quality products: Vitesco components are delivered with consistent reliability, backed by Schaeffler’s renowned service infrastructure. This strategic integration enables Schaeffler VLS to support the evolving needs of the Australian car parc, providing innovative solutions for sustainable mobility. It also opens up new market segments while accelerating the development of lowemission and highly efficient drive systems. By acquiring emissions-compliant diagnostic technologies like NOx sensors

and precision actuators, Schaefﬂer VLS is reinforcing its role as a key enabler of environmentally responsible vehicle repair and maintenance.

These components are crucial for ensuring CO2 reduction, enhancing drivetrain efﬁciency, and lowering long-term operating costs for vehicle owners.

Empowering the aftermarket

As vehicles grow more complex with the integration of mechatronics, software, and connectivity, the challenges faced by independent aftermarket workshops increase.

Schaefﬂer VLS is addressing this headon through its REPXPERT workshop portal, offering extensive training and technical resources based on OE-level expertise.

This equips technicians with the knowledge and tools needed to stay ahead of rapid technological change.

At the same time, sales channel partners beneﬁt from the ‘Schaefﬂer Vitesco’ co-branding strategy, allowing them to introduce previously exclusive OE technologies to the wider market.

This democratisation of access to top-tier automotive components is a game-changer for the aftermarket.

With this integration, Schaefﬂer continues its legacy as an innovation leader.

For more than 75 years, the Schaefﬂer Group has pioneered motion technologies across industries.

Now, with 120,000 employees in more than 250 locations worldwide, the company remains a global force in developing solutions for electric mobility, CO2 -efﬁcient drives, chassis systems, and renewable energy — all aimed at making motion more intelligent, sustainable, and efﬁcient.

In the modern vehicle, where the line between mechanical systems and digital intelligence is increasingly blurred, the trio of sensors, actuators, and control units are not just important — they are indispensable.

With the integration of Vitesco Technologies, Schaefﬂer’s VLS division is ensuring these essential components are accessible, reliable, and ready for the road ahead.

Schaefﬂer Vitesco NOx sensor and TCU D200 module.

Images: Schaefﬂ er

WHEELS, PARTS & TYRES FOCUS FEATURE

The PLB-802 handles everything from passenger vehicles to heavy-duty wheels with ease—fast, accurate, and built for high-volume workshops.

The PLB-503 delivers ultra-precise balancing with sonar diagnostics, a high-deﬁnition LCD screen, and lightning-fast performance — everything you need in one machine.

Perfect balance

The PLB-402 offers reliable wheel balancing with minimal hassle — perfect for small to medium workshops that need efﬁciency at an affordable price.

Launch unveils wheel balancers — PLB-802, PLB-402, and PLB-503

Aussie mechanics understand the importance of having reliable, precise, and efﬁcient equipment in their workshop.

When it comes to balancing wheels, whether for cars, trucks, or motorcycles, choosing the right machine can save you time, increase accuracy, and improve the overall customer experience.

Three new wheel balancers have been made available via Launch, catering for all kinds of workshop needs, great or small.

Power and precision for trucks and cars

The PLB-802 is designed for both car and truck wheel balancing, making it a versatile choice for busy workshops that service a wide range of vehicles.

What sets this machine apart is its variable frequency technology, ensuring that it can handle everything from passenger car wheels to large truck tyres with ease.

The machine offers a high precision of 1g for cars and 10g for trucks, allowing for accurate results across various wheel sizes.

With an Italian software interface, the PLB-802 is intuitive and easy to operate, even for mechanics who might not be familiar with the latest technology.

The machine’s frequency converter-driven motor ensures smooth operation with low noise, making it a pleasant experience for both the technician and the customer.

The automatic input of two values and six o’clock laser indicator streamlines the process, while the intelligent dynamic switch adjusts automatically for different materials like ALU alloy.

Its high maximum wheel weight of 200kg and rim diameter capacity from 1” to 28”

make it capable of handling even the largest of wheels, including those found on heavyduty trucks.

The automatic balancing time of nine seconds for cars and 20 seconds for trucks keeps your workﬂow fast, while the standard lifting device reduces manual labour.

Simple, stable, and affordable

If you’re running a smaller shop or need a cost-effective option for lighter workloads, the PLB-402 is an excellent choice.

It balances wheels from 10” to 24” in diameter and can handle up to 65kg of wheel weight.

With an impressive 1g accuracy, this model ensures precise balancing, essential for passenger vehicles.

What sets the PLB-402 apart is its self-calibration feature, which ensures the machine maintains its accuracy over time without the need for complicated adjustments.

The machine’s high-stability computer and precision bearing-driven shaft also contribute to long-lasting performance with minimal wear and noise.

For those who require a quick and simple setup, the emergency stop button adds an extra layer of safety.

The full automatic dynamic/static balance check ensures that the machine works efﬁciently with minimal operator input.

Plus, the machine’s quiet operation (at ≤ 69dB) keeps the workshop environment pleasant, even during long hours.

Advanced features for the modern workshop

For mechanics looking for cutting-edge technology, the PLB-503 is the ideal solution.

It boasts three non-contact sonars for tyre performance diagnosis and automatic width measurement, allowing for accurate readings without physical contact.

This model also comes with Italian software and has a high-deﬁnition 19” LCD monitor for clear, easy-to-read results.

One of the standout features of the PLB503 is its ability to automatically detect tyre conditions, with radial and lateral sonar measuring the surface of the tyre.

The LED illuminator makes operation easy, even in low-light environments, and the six o’clock weight placement mode with a laser indicator ensures you never miss a spot. The machine’s low-level noise motor and 140rpm rotation speed make balancing fast and efﬁcient, with a balancing time of just seven seconds. This is especially beneﬁcial for high-volume shops that need to keep things moving quickly.

Seeing triple

Each of these machines offers something different depending on your workshop’s needs.

The PLB-802 is perfect for workshops that need to balance both light and heavy-duty wheels with speed and accuracy.

The PLB-402 provides a more affordable, user-friendly option for smaller operations, while the PLB-503 is ideal for those who want to leverage the latest in diagnostic and balancing technology.

Ultimately, investing in the right wheel balancer will enhance your service quality, improve efﬁciency, and keep your customers rolling smoothly down the road.

Head to launchtech.com.au or call 1300 369 788 to learn more about each model

Images: Launch

EUROPEAN QUALITY FOR ASIAN AUTO BRANDS.

LuK

Clutches:

OE Quality for Asian Vehicles

LuK Clutches bring OE quality and engineering into the aftermarket for Asian automotive makes. Packaged with all necessary parts for a safe and eﬃcient replacement, LuK clutches OE heritage they’re the perfect repair solution.

https://vehiclelifetimesolutions.schaeﬄer.com.au

Street smarts

DBA expands product range with

DWHEELS, PARTS & TYRES FOCUS FEATURE

new Street Series Brake Booster

isc Brakes Australia (DBA), a well-established name in braking technology and trusted for its high performance and reliability, has implemented a strategic expansion of its Street Series product line with the introduction of Brake Boosters.

This latest move reinforces DBA’s ongoing commitment to supporting the automotive aftermarket industry with reliable OE replacement parts tailored to the needs of trade customers.

While DBA has long been recognised for its advanced rotor and pad technologies across performance and 4x4 applications, the addition of Brake Boosters is a logical extension into the broader braking system, and more speciﬁcally into DBA’s Street Series range of hydraulic components, including calipers, brake hoses or brake cylinders.

Fit for purpose

As direct OE replacements, DBA’s Street Series Brake Boosters are engineered to match factory speciﬁcations for ﬁt, function, and performance — ensuring a hassle-free install and dependable operation across a wide range of popular vehicle makes and models.

DBA’s expansion into Brake Boosters is less about reinventing the wheel and more about strengthening its offering to workshops, parts resellers, and trade professionals who rely on a one-stop solution for their braking needs.

With supply chains under constant pressure and the market demanding quicker access to quality replacement components, DBA’s addition to the hydraulic segment helps alleviate sourcing issues while reinforcing trust in an established local supplier.

“It’s about being where our customers need us,” DBA National Sales Manager Shane Jeffreys said.

“Workshops already turn to us for premium rotors and pads — they know what we stand for. Offering Brake Boosters allows us to provide even more value and convenience under the one brand.”

The new Street Series Brake Booster range is available now and stocked across DBA’s national distribution network, ensuring timely delivery and streamlined ordering for trade clients.

Ready to perform

Each unit is backed by the same rigorous quality standards and aftersales support the industry has come to expect from DBA.

As the aftermarket continues to evolve, suppliers like DBA play a vital role in supporting workshops and resellers with reliable products that reduce downtime and improve customer satisfaction.

While this latest product may not carry the performance headlines of DBA’s Upgrade Dual-Diaphragm booster range, its arrival is nonetheless signiﬁcant: another step in ensuring workshops have access to the right parts, right when they need them.

With this expansion, DBA reinforces its reputation not only as a performance leader, but also as a practical partner to the automotive workshop — offering parts that are proven, accessible, and trusted.

For more information on DBA products & vehicle application visit dba.com.au and follow DBA social channels to stay up to date

Images: Disc Brakes Australia

DBA’s new Street Series Brake Boosters are engineered to match factory speciﬁcations for ﬁt, function, and performance.

Each DBA Brake Booster is backed by rigorous quality standards and aftersales support, ensuring timely delivery and streamlined ordering for trade clients.

WHEELS, PARTS & TYRES FOCUS FEATURE

Elite stability and service

Premium brake drums now available from Exedy

Exedy Australia, a trusted name in the automotive aftermarket, has expanded its offering with a new range of premium automotive brake drums now available to workshops and distributors nationwide.

Known for supplying high-quality driveline components, Exedy is now making it easier than ever for mechanics to source dependable braking solutions for a variety of popular passenger and light commercial vehicles.

These brake drums are engineered to deliver reliability, durability, and precise performance, ensuring consistent braking under all driving conditions.

Manufactured from high-grade cast iron and ﬁnished with advanced machining processes, they provide smooth operation, reduced noise, and an extended service life — all essential factors for maintaining customer satisfaction and vehicle safety.

The range covers many of Australia’s most common vehicles, from hard-working

utes to everyday commuter cars.

Australia

Applications include Toyota HiLux (295 mm and 254 mm variants), Holden Colorado, Isuzu D-Max, Ford Ranger, Mitsubishi Triton, Toyota Corolla, Hyundai Getz, Nissan Tiida, Suzuki Swift, and more.

Seeing to needs

This breadth of coverage means workshops can conﬁdently service a wide range of makes and models without the hassle of multiple suppliers.

For mechanics, having access to quality brake drums through a single, reliable supplier offers multiple beneﬁts.

It streamlines sourcing, reduces downtime, and ensures consistent product quality across different vehicle applications.

Exedy Australia’s established distribution network means these brake drums can be quickly and easily ordered, helping workshops get vehicles back on the road faster.

Brake drums remain a vital component

Exedy is making it as easy as possible for workshops to source high-quality braking components

for many vehicles on Australian roads, particularly in rear braking systems where longevity and stability are key.

Choosing the right brake drum can inﬂuence not only stopping performance but also driver comfort by minimising vibration and noise.

The addition of this range to Exedy Australia’s catalogue gives workshops conﬁdence in offering their customers a dependable braking solution backed by a well-known and respected supplier.

With competitive availability, trusted quality, and broad ﬁtment coverage, the new range of brake drums available from Exedy Australia is set to become a staple in workshops across the country.

To learn more about the available applications or to place an order, contact your local distributor or Exedy Australia: Email: sales@exedy.com.au or visit the website: exedy.com.au

Treading into tomorrow

Bridgestone Turanza 6: A premium touring tyre for today’s roads

The launch of Bridgestone’s new ﬂagship touring tyre, the Turanza 6, marks a pivotal shift in what deﬁnes a premium tyre in the Australian market.

As SUVs and new energy vehicles — such as hybrids — continue to dominate new vehicle sales, mechanics and tyre experts alike are seeing a shift in the needs of Aussie motorists.

“There’s an undeniable shift towards SUVs and larger vehicles in our market,” Bridgestone Australia & New Zealand Marketing General Manager David Honner said.

“The introduction of Turanza 6 is timely because it enhances our offering, providing tyres for vehicles that are quiet and comfortable in addition to having grip and braking performance for peace of mind on the roads.”

But safety, comfort, and performance are more essential than ever.

Benchmark testing of the Turanza 6 that was conducted at Tailem Bend’s skidpan highlighted the extent of the compromise against budget tyres: stopping up to 3.5 metres sooner in the wet and showing a 10 per cent improvement in wet lateral grip.

In dry slalom testing, the Turanza 6 was signiﬁcantly quicker, highlighting the value of its advanced compound and construction.

Available in 75 sizes ranging from small passenger vehicles to large SUVs like the Volvo XC90 and Range Rover Sport, this new generation Turanza makes a compelling case for the premium choice at every ﬁtment opportunity.

ENLITEN Technology: The foundation of next-gen performance

The Turanza 6 is the ﬁrst tyre to showcase Bridgestone’s ENLITEN technology paired with its Bridgestone Commonality Modularity Architecture (BCMA), setting the tone for all future product development.

ENLITEN is Bridgestone’s design philosophy that balances safety and sustainability, while setting new standards in performance.

For Turanza 6 this includes considering the demands of both electriﬁed and conventional vehicles alike.

Bridgestone Australia & New Zealand

Managing Director Heath Barclay said the release of the Turanza 6 marked ENLITEN’s introduction to Australia.

“This is technology that will underpin our future developments and products,” he said.

“The introduction of Turanza 6 also sees the expansion of our highly popular Turanza touring range into SUV sizes and allows us to provide a safe, reliable and durable solution in sizes previously not offered in our line up.

“Turanza 6 highlights how we continue to innovate and introduce products that meet the changing needs in our market –ensuring that we have an EV ready product for modern motorists and bringing ENLITEN technology to our core product ranges.”

It provides enhanced wet handling, lower rolling resistance, and a quieter, more comfortable ride — especially important for EVs where tyre noise becomes more noticeable.

Its compound durability and high torque tolerance make it EV-ready from day one.

Features like divergent shoulder blocks and double-sequence tread designs

Images:

Bridgestone Australia

Turanza 6’s innovative tread pattern enhances wet grip, reduces noise, and improves water evacuation.

Turanza 6 is engineered to meet the demands of today’s high-performance SUVs and electric vehicles.

improve water evacuation and minimise road noise. ENLITEN has already proven its worth in the harsh conditions of the Bridgestone World Solar Challenge, where almost every team ran ENLITENequipped tyres for maximum efﬁciency and durability — a true ‘mobile lab’ for real-world innovation.

Delivering on the Bridgestone E8 commitment

Beyond technical performance, the Turanza 6 represents Bridgestone’s global E8 Commitment — a set of guiding principles that align product development with broader social and environmental goals.

Speciﬁcally, the Turanza 6 delivers on energy, efﬁciency, and ease. For mechanics, that means offering a tyre

that not only improves fuel economy and driving comfort for their customers, but also supports sustainable practices through resource efﬁciency and reduced emissions in manufacturing.

Bridgestone’s integration of ENLITEN and BCMA technologies reduces production waste and simpliﬁes product modularity, allowing for faster innovation without compromising quality.

As more Australian customers seek out EV-ready options and sustainable solutions, the Turanza 6 positions itself as the smart, future-facing choice — premium in every sense of the word, and purpose-built for the evolving road ahead.

Visit bridgestone.com.au for more information

Bridgestone Turanza 6 outperforms budget tyres in wet conditions during local testing.

Mechanics across Australia are turning to Turanza 6 for premium safety, comfort, and durability.

Supporting automotive professionals with the range, pricing & trusted brands they rely on to get the job done.

How Clarke Smith fuels passion for members’ futures From track to ofﬁce

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or Clarke, life is all about passion — whether it’s on the racetrack, travelling with family, or guiding employers and members toward a stronger ﬁnancial future. Outside of work, he’s a dedicated family man.

Weekends revolve around wife Clare and their two boys, Jenson (13) and Lachlan (11). Together, they’ve travelled widely, collecting memories from far-ﬂung adventures. Sport is a big part of their lives too.

Most recently, the family returned from Malaysia after competing in two pickleball tournaments — proof that the Smith household thrives on challenge and friendly competition.

Then there’s the other love that’s been with Clarke since age 12: motorsport. Passed down from his father, it’s a passion that’s never faded.

He’s followed Formula 1 and the World Rally Championship for decades, and jumps into karting or track days whenever possible. “It’s an expensive passion,” he

laughs, “but I still love it as much as the day I started.”

Guiding the team like Yoda

At CareSuper, Clarke leads a national team — earning the nickname ‘Yoda’ among colleagues.

It’s not just for the dad jokes, but for the wisdom and guidance he shares.

Coaching and mentoring are his favourite parts of the role, with a clear mission: help his team become the best versions of themselves.

He knows that for many Australians, superannuation remains a mystery.

“The average Australian still has limited knowledge when it comes to super,” he says. “Everything my team does with our employer network is about giving staff access to ﬁnancial literacy and education — and we do it really well.”

Keeping it simple, building trust

When pitching to new employers, Clarke keeps things straightforward.

“I avoid jargon so our audience can understand the super landscape and their obligations,” he explained.

His openness and honesty make it easy to build lasting relationships — perfectly aligned with CareSuper’s values of service, trust, and connection.

Why members’ futures matter

With around 2.5 million Australians set to retire in the next decade, Clarke is passionate about starting education early — even his own sons know the basics of super. “We should be talking about super in schools,” he said.

Lessons from motorsport

Whether racing or retirement planning, Clarke believes in starting early, focusing on detail, and playing the long game.

“I started investing at 15,” he said.

“You only retire once — make sure you’re ready to cross that ﬁnish line with conﬁdence.”

Visit caresuper.com.au today.

Image:

Clarke has colourfully earned the nickname ‘Yoda’ for his wisdom and coaching acumen.

When Steve needs power, he goes to Sealed Performance Batteries For the pros

For about 33 years, Prorepair has been a go-to for reliable auto repairs in the North Melbourne area.

Owner Steve Michaelides started the business with his brother, who retired about 10 years ago leaving co-ownership to Steve’s wife Menka.

“We started off on the mum and dad cars … we’ve also gone into the European market more so than what we had in the past,” Steve said.

“The everyday cars are our bread and butter, they’re the best kind of cars to deal with in my opinion.”

Throughout that time, Prorepair has built a reputation based on strong relationships, both with customers and suppliers.

An energised partnership

One of those relationships that has ﬂourished is between Prorepair and Sealed Performance Batteries (SPB).

What drew me to SPB was the brand, its type of batteries and their customer service

Steve and his team have been exclusively using SPB batteries since 2019, and have been major fans of Energizer Automotive’s battery range speciﬁcally since 2023.

“What drew me to SPB was the brand, the batteries and their customer service,” Steve said.

“Whenever I need something, I get it immediately – they’re very helpful.

“Whether I speak to my account manager or the person who makes the deliveries; I get an equal amount of attention and responsiveness.”

Symbiotic

Across its 25 years in the industry, SPB has proven itself a reliable supplier of energy storage solutions for mechanics across Australia like Steve. SPB sales representative Murray Bray said a strong relationship between SPB and its customers was crucial to success on both sides.

“It’s our lifeblood; it’s what we do,” he added.

“You can spend enormous amounts of time gathering more and more customers

“But if you don’t cultivate and maintain those relationships — all of that energy is lost. When you ﬁnd someone with the philosophy that Steve and Menka have for their business, you do everything you

Images: Prime Creative Media

Murray has been Steve’s SPB sales representative since joining up with Prorepair in 2019.

can to maintain and enhance it.”

Steve added there was an element of trust that batteries installed by his mechanics had a market-leading warranty and is backed by SPB’s national network that can support the customer no matter where they are in Australia.

“I’ve only ever had to change one Energizer battery since 2019,” he said.

“The come-back rate is great; the batteries rarely fault.

“When a customer comes in, I take it in good faith that SPB will honour the warranty of the battery I’m sending the customer off with. The customer trusts us, I trust the battery is backed and Murray trusts that I’ve done my due diligence in testing and installation.”

Teamwork like that between Steve and Murray aren’t uncommon, with SPB taking the same trustworthy approach to all its supplied workshops nationwide.

Visit sealedperformance.com.au to learn more

Prorepair has ﬁve mechanics working on a variety of cars, from daily drivers to high-end luxury.

EYE ON THE INDUSTRY

A legacy of know-how, innovation, and community 100 years of NAPA

This year celebrates a century of NAPA — 100 years of expertise, innovation, and service that has made it the trusted provider of automotive products and solutions in the USA.

While NAPA’s journey in Australia is just six years old, its foundations run deep.

Heritage brands that became NAPA — like COVs, founded 96 years ago, and Ashdown-Ingram with over 55 years, have long been part of the fabric of Australia’s automotive industry.

Many of the company’s team members have dedicated decades to this business, bringing invaluable industry knowledge that sets NAPA apart.

Their expertise, paired with NAPA’s global strength, is what makes it a trusted name in automotive aftermarket parts and solutions.

Globally local: The best of both worlds

NAPA is all about being Globally Local — leveraging the scale, capability, and heritage of the world’s largest automotive aftermarket parts provider while delivering the local expertise, brands, range, and service that Australians rely on.

NAPA Australia comes from a proud heritage of automotive electrical

and air conditioning expertise.

Over the years, it has expanded its range, deepened its knowledge, and reﬁned its specialist capabilities to deliver a truly comprehensive aftermarket solution.

Whether you’re sourcing parts for air conditioning, electrical, braking, clutch & driveline, engine cooling, servicing and consumables, steering and suspension, tools, or workshop equipment – NAPA’s deep industry expertise ensures you get the right part, ﬁrst time, every time.

But its support doesn’t end with parts. NAPA delivers innovative business solutions that drive real efﬁciency — offering inventory management, automatic stock replenishment, eCommerce, and digital systems to help its customers save time and reduce costs.

Backed by heritage, built for motorsport

NAPA’s automotive passion extends beyond the workshop and onto the track.

As naming rights sponsor of the NAPA Speedway – Sprint Car in the City, returning to Adelaide this November, NAPA proudly supports the future of Grassroots Motorsport.

It has long been a driving force in

motorsport, with major sponsorships dating back to 1977, supporting the National 500 in the NASCAR Cup Series.

Nearly 50 years later, the NAPA brand remains a dominant presence in global racing, backing stars like Chase Elliott (NASCAR), Brad Sweet (World of Outlaws Sprintcars), Ron Capps (NHRA Drag Racing), and teams in the British Touring Car and Truck Racing Championships.

The NAPA Sprintcar Invitational returns in 2025 after a thrilling debut last year that saw packed crowds witness Sprintcars tearing through Adelaide’s city centre.

This year, the event expands to a threenight schedule, held from Wednesday November 26 to Friday November 28, as part of the bp Adelaide Grand Final.

Featuring a 40-car ﬁeld, ﬁerce competition, and a boosted $110,000 prize pool, fans can expect more action than ever before on the 342-metre temporary NAPA Speedway.

As if that weren’t enough, Lenny Kravitz and Jet will headline Saturday night’s entertainment, leading into an explosive Sunday ﬁnale featuring none other than AC/DC, closing the Supercars season with a bang.

“The success of the NAPA Speedway

When mechanics and motorists think about quality service and stock, they think of NAPA.

was incredible in 2024, and it is exciting to increase the Sprintcar action to include Wednesday evening at the bp Adelaide Grand Final,” South Australian Motor Sport Board CEO Mark Warren said.

Located within the Adelaide street circuit precinct, the event will once again bring 950-horsepower Sprintcars into the heart of the Supercars season, delivering heat races, qualiﬁers, and feature events across the three days.

The 2024 debut was a standout success, earning NAPA Speedway the ‘Innovation/Promotion/Event of the Year’ at the Australian Speedway Awards.

“It’s fantastic to conﬁrm the return of the NAPA Speedway at the bp Adelaide Grand Final this year,” NAPA Marketing Executive General Manager Mitch Wiley said.

“The inaugural event last year was nothing short of outstanding.

“To see Sprintcars in the heart of Adelaide was an incredible spectacle, and the 2025 edition promises to deliver so much more.

“NAPA is proud to have played a part in bringing it to life and we all look forward to seeing another huge event in the Adelaide Parklands as part of one of Australia’s great sporting events.”

Giving back:

$100,000 for 100 years NAPA believes in supporting the communities where its employees live and work.

That’s why it’s proudly partnered with Starlight Children’s Foundation for more than 15 years. Starlight understands that every child deserves a happy childhood, but for seriously ill kids, hospital stays and treatments can be overwhelming.

Through play, creativity, and social connection, Starlight brings joy and positivity to families during their toughest times.

To mark 100 years of NAPA, it’s donating $100,000 to Starlight, continuing its commitment to improving the lives of seriously ill children and young people.

Because happiness matters.

The NAPA Sprintcar Invitational will be returning in November.

Heritage, scale, expertise: Powering performance

For a century, NAPA has been the trusted name in automotive parts and solutions, delivering expertise, scale, and service wherever it’s needed. In Australia, its national network ensures that no matter where you are, you have access to the parts, knowledge, and support to keep your business ahead of the curve.

NAPA is more than parts - NAPA powers your performance.

It makes its business to drive yours. Visit napaparts.com.au to learn more

Images: NAPA Auto Parts

No matter the racetrack, NAPA’s blue and gold presence has been known.

FEATURES

Compatible

The VACC Technical Library

A living resource for modern workshops

In an era where access to vehicle repair and diagnostic information is increasingly complex, the Victorian Automotive Chamber of Commerce (VACC) Technical Library has emerged as one of the most signiﬁcant repositories of automotive knowledge in Australia.

It is widely regarded as the largest and most comprehensive collection of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere, providing workshops with the information they need to repair, maintain, and service vehicles spanning more than a century of automotive development.

A resource born of necessity

For today’s workshops, technical information is both critical and increasingly difﬁcult to access. Essential service manuals and diagnostic procedures can only be accessed behind subscriptionbased portals, while aftermarket databases are not always complete. Imported vehicles, whether Japanese grey imports, American trucks, or emerging Chinese models, frequently arrive with little to no local technical documentation.

This leaves independent workshops at risk of being unable to service the diverse Australian vehicle ﬂeet.

The VACC Technical Library was

established to address this challenge. What began as a growing reference collection in the post-war period has developed into a strategically managed archive designed to support the evolving needs of the automotive service sector.

Today, the library contains more than 40,000 volumes of workshop manuals, covering passenger vehicles, motorcycles, heavy vehicles, agricultural machinery, and more.

Scale and scope

Located at VACC’s ofﬁces in North Melbourne, the library houses shelves stretching ﬂoor to ceiling with manuals and technical guides representing virtually every make and model ever sold in Australia.

European luxury brands, Japanese imports, American classics, Korean massmarket vehicles, and new entries from China are all represented.

Beyond conventional engine and transmission manuals, the library includes comprehensive coverage of electrical systems, body repair, advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), hybrid and electric vehicle platforms, and emerging technologies.

The library is not static.

It continues to expand weekly with

new acquisitions and carefully curated additions. Each new vehicle type entering the Australian market is reviewed by VACC’s Technical team, which then prioritises acquisition of relevant manuals.

Relationships with international publishers, including exclusive arrangements with Haynes and access to Haynes Pro digital resources, ensure coverage of both legacy and emerging models.

Practical application

For workshops, the value of the library lies in its immediate application to daily business. When a service advisor or technician encounters a complex or unusual problem, VACC’s Technical advisory team draws upon the library to locate the exact information required.

In many cases, a single enquiry begins with a search of a digital database but is completed by retrieving detailed diagrams or procedures from the physical collection. This dual approach allows workshops to solve problems faster, clear repair bays sooner, and provide reliable service to customers.

The system is designed for efﬁciency.

Advisors can access and retrieve information within minutes, often locating

This library is considered the largest of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere.

EYE ON THE INDUSTRY

manuals or bulletins unavailable through manufacturer or aftermarket channels.

Historical depth also provides unique advantages: when vehicles age out of digital manufacturer support, the hardcopy resources maintained by VACC remain accessible, ensuring older vehicles can still be repaired with accuracy.

Supporting the future

The VACC Technical Library is not only about preserving the past but also about preparing workshops for the future. Recent

acquisition priorities include detailed documentation on hybrid and electric vehicle platforms, battery systems, and charging infrastructure. With the rollout of ADAS technologies, calibration procedures and advanced diagnostics have also become central to the collection.

Alongside this focus on new technologies, VACC continues to invest in digitisation projects, ensuring key historical manuals are converted to searchable formats while preserving physical originals. Integration between digital databases and the physical

collection ensures members beneﬁt from a complete technical ecosystem, unmatched by any single-source provider.

A competitive advantage

For VACC members, access to the Technical Library provides a signiﬁcant commercial edge. Workshops can accept work on a broader range of vehicles, including grey imports and rare models, knowing reliable support is available.

The ability to quickly diagnose and repair vehicles increases efﬁciency, reduces downtime, and improves customer satisfaction.

As the automotive industry becomes more fragmented and complex, the VACC Technical Library stands as an irreplaceable asset. By maintaining the most extensive archive of automotive technical information in Australia and combining it with expert support, VACC ensures that independent workshops remain competitive, capable, and ready to meet both the challenges of today and the technologies of tomorrow.

Cars, parts, manuals — you name it. This library has everything at your ﬁngertips.

Utilising the library gives VACC members an edge in this ever-evolving industry.

WorldSkills Australia announces national training squad ahead of Shanghai 2026 World stage

WorldSkills Australia has today announced the 39 rising stars who have been named in its national training squad — the ﬁrst step toward selection for Team Australia, which will compete at the 48th WorldSkills Competition held in Shanghai, China, September 22-27, 2026.

The squad includes high-performing apprentices, trainees and young professionals from every state and territory, who excelled at the recent WorldSkills Australia National Championships in Brisbane, earning medals across 60 different skill categories, including Automobile Technology, Autobody Repair and Heavy Vehicle Technology.

“The talent on display at the National Championships was nothing short of extraordinary — a true reﬂection of the world-class skills that exist right here in

Australia, WorldSkills Australia CEO Trevor Schwenke said.

“These young people have proven themselves among the best in the country and now have the opportunity to show the world just how strong and competitive Australian skills excellence is.

“Behind every squad member is a dedicated trainer, mentor, and a VET system

that equips young people with real-world skills and career pathways. WorldSkills is more than a competition — it’s a platform to showcase potential, elevate ambition, and celebrate the skilled professionals shaping Australia’s future.

“We’re incredibly proud to support this next generation as they take their ﬁrst step toward the world stage.”

Auto trades apprentices in national training squad

Lachlan Wright (left) was named to the training squad for heavy vehicle technology.

Apprentices across the auto and panel repair sectors have been named to the training squad.

This year’s WorldSkills Australia National Championships in Brisbane hosted the most attendees and apprentices yet for the national competition.

EYE ON THE INDUSTRY

Next up

Over the coming months, squad members will undertake an intensive training program. Those selected for the ﬁnal team will represent Australia on the global stage in September 2026, competing against more than 1,400 peers from over 60 countries in the world’s largest skills excellence event.

The announcement coincides with the launch of National Skills Week, an initiative that champions vocational education and highlights the critical role of skills-based careers in shaping Australia’s future workforce and economy.

The training squad was ofﬁcially launched at a special event at Parliament House in Canberra on September 1, where they met with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese who took photos with the squad and congratulated them on their achievements.

Following the Prime Minister meet and greet an ofﬁcial launch of the squad was held inside Parliament house and was attended by Minister for Skills and Training, the Hon Andrew Giles MP, Patron for WorldSkills Australia, former MP Brendan O’Connor, MPs, TAFE directors and other dignitaries.

“I congratulate every member of the national training squad, who’ve already proven their success following their participation at the WorldSkills National Championships in Brisbane and are now looking to the global stage,” Mr Giles said.

“These rising stars represent just a snapshot of the incredible skill and dedication that is shown by apprentices, trainees and students right across Australia – and showcasing to other Australians the endless possibilities that come from pursuing vocational education and training.”

Gold standard

In the lead up to the event, the team attended a four-day team development camp to strengthen team bonds, train in high performance and resilience, and prepare for the honour and challenge of representing Australia on the world stage.

The Australian Government proudly supports the WorldSkills program, which plays a vital role in encouraging young Australians to pursue skills-based careers.

With ongoing skills shortages across multiple sectors, events like the National Championships help to promote trades and training pathways as valuable, future-focused career options.

First held in 1950, the WorldSkills International Competition aims to raise the proﬁle of vocational skills worldwide, engaging young people, parents, educators and employers in the value of trades and technical education.

WorldSkills celebrates the many talented trade apprentices from across the world.

Capital era

Driving the next chapter for the ACT’s automotive sector

In the automotive industry, standing still isn’t an option.

Technology changes, customer expectations change, and the skills you need to run a successful business change, too.

That’s why I’m excited to share with Australian Car Mechanic readers that MTA ACT is ofﬁcially back in action.

By bringing MTA ACT into the MTA NSW Group, the ACT’s automotive businesses will now have the backing of a 100+ strong team with a proven track record in advocacy and industry leadership.

This relaunch is designed to give ACT businesses the same level of support, training, and advocacy that thousands of NSW operators already rely on.

Whether it’s ﬁghting for fair regulations, inﬂuencing training standards, or pushing for investment in industry infrastructure, MTA ACT will have the muscle to get things done.

Even if you’re not based in the ACT, this relaunch strengthens the industry’s overall voice.

Canberra plays a big role in shaping policy, and having a strong MTA presence there means better representation for the trade nationwide.

The ACT is also big when it comes to inﬂuence. Many policy ideas are tested there before being rolled out nationally.

That makes it the perfect place to push for rules that actually work for the trade, not against it.

By building stronger networks and better resources in the ACT, we’re building strength for the entire sector.

Training for the new generation of skills

Our industry is in the midst of a skills shakeup. EVs, hybrids, and advanced diagnostics all demand new knowledge.

Through My Trade Start and MTA NSW Training, MTA ACT members will now have access to the same high-quality apprenticeships and upskilling pathways that thousands of NSW technicians already use.

It’s about future-prooﬁng the workforce so we’re ready for whatever comes down the road.

When you’re running a workshop, every hour counts. MTA ACT will be offering

hands-on workplace support to keep businesses running smoothly, including advice on industrial relations, help with compliance, and solutions for the everyday problems that can slow you down. The aim is simple: keep you focused on ﬁ xing cars and serving customers, not drowning in red tape.

Stronger, better, together

Being part of a membership organisation ensures every voice counts. When workshops, dealers, and technicians come together under one banner, the whole sector gets stronger. It means governments listen harder, training standards are lifted, and industry problems are solved faster.

For smaller automotive businesses especially, collective representation levels the playing field. Instead of tackling challenges in isolation, members gain the benefits of shared resources, expert advice, and a united voice pushing for better outcomes. The bigger and more connected the network, the more influence we all have.

It means your voice is being heard when new laws or standards are being set. It means ensuring your apprentices are learning the right skills for the future. That someone’s got your back when you hit a tricky IR issue.

That’s exactly what MTA ACT, and the wider MTA NSW Group, is here for. So whether you’re in Canberra, Queanbeyan, Newcastle or Tweed Heads, the message is the same: we’re stronger when we work together.

ACT’s auto landscape is tightly linked to NSW. Image: Olivia Zhou/stock.adobe.com

Stavros Yallouridis, Chief Executive Ofﬁcer, MTA NSW Group. Image: MTA NSW Group.

Your super partner in the motor trades Across the motor trade. Around Australia. For every workshop, team and business. We’re your Australian fund who cares about you, your business, and employees. Supporting you every super step of the way.

Scan the QR code to learn more

Go enduro

RYCO extends partnership with Supercars and Enduro Cup

YCO has been instrumental in outﬁtting the GEN3 Mustangs and Camaros with the latest in performance ﬁltration.

RYCO has announced a newly extended partnership, expanding on its commitment to motorsport with the naming rights of the RYCO Enduro Cup and perpetual trophy for the Supercars Championship through to the 2027 season.

The RYCO Enduro Cup is a signiﬁcant part of the Supercars Championship and has a unique history in the sport.

Super endurance

The RYCO Enduro Cup recognises the team and drivers that show endurance,

persistence and consistency in getting the job done with the highest point scores over the two endurance race weekends of the AirTouch 500 at The Bend, and the Repco Bathurst 1000.

RYCO’s development of Supercars GEN3 Filtration Program was speciﬁcally designed to provide increased engine longevity, performance and endurance, culminating in lifting the engine rebuild frequency from 4500km to over 8000km.

Along with the RYCO Enduro Cup being the ultimate endurance achievement for all

Supercars competitors, it was a no brainer and an honour for RYCO to be associated with.

RYCO is enthusiastic about drivers everywhere being able to beneﬁt from the technologies developed for Supercars, and the extensive Ryco SynTec® range and growing Ryco NanoCel® range, available now, are reﬂective of this.

RYCO Sales & Marketing General Manager Tony Sullivan commented on RYCO’s excitement regarding the extended partnership.

“RYCO is steadfast in supporting the leading motorsport code in Australia & New Zealand, and we couldn’t be more excited to continue our relationship and development within the Supercars Championship,” he said.

“The RYCO Enduro Cup is a new chapter for us and further solidiﬁes our commitment to continuing our partnership with Supercars, teams and drivers alike.

“We look forward to lights out for the commencement of the RYCO Enduro Cup at The Bend, and continuing our development and implementation of the Supercar proven technology into our everyday performance range.”

Visit rycoﬁlters.com.au for more information on RYCO products and components

Image: Supplied by RYCO Ready

Sticking together

Why staying connected with IAME matters more than ever

The automotive industry is constantly evolving. New technologies reshape how vehicles are built, diagnosed, and repaired. Regulations and compliance requirements tighten each year.

Customers expect not just mechanical

expertise, but also digital literacy, sustainability awareness, and professional standards.

In this environment, no professional or business can thrive in isolation.

That is where the Institute of Automotive Mechanical Engineers (IAME) continues to play a vital role.

For over 80 years, IAME has been more than an association—it has been a trusted voice, a professional community, and a support system for thousands of automotive technicians, apprentices, educators, and businesses across Australia.

For current members, the question isn’t simply ‘why join?’ but rather ‘why stay?’.

Continuing your membership means investing in your own future and strengthening the wider industry.

Building powerful networks

The value of networking is not just in swapping business cards or adding contacts on LinkedIn.

In the automotive sector, genuine connections often spark the biggest opportunities — whether that’s ﬁnding a supplier who understands your challenges, connecting with a peer who has already solved the problem you’re facing, or discovering a new business partnership.

IAME makes these connections possible.

From technical forums and branch events to online platforms such as member-only Facebook groups, members can openly discuss issues, share solutions, and collaborate.

In an industry where technology moves quickly, this community support is priceless.

As one long-time member put it, “The best advice I’ve ever received didn’t come from a textbook, it came from a conversation with another IAME member at an event.”

Knowledge that keeps you ahead

The pace of change in the automotive world is relentless.

Electric vehicles, hybrid systems,

IAME can help make professional connections that bolsters members and the wider industry.

Just like being a great mechanic for your customers, having association support behind you is just as important.

Your voice at the table

When governments and regulators set new standards, someone must ensure the perspective of automotive professionals is heard.

advanced driver assistance technologies, digital diagnostics, cybersecurity — these are no longer ‘future issues’, they are here today. Without access to accurate and timely information, professionals risk falling behind.

IAME ensures members stay ahead by delivering:

• Technical bulletins that break down complex systems into practical knowledge.

• Industry journals and publications that cover trends, innovations, and best practice.

• Legislative updates so members understand compliance requirements before they become pitfalls.

• Educational resources designed for technicians and business owners alike. Having the right information at the right time doesn’t just prevent costly mistakes—it creates conﬁdence when serving customers and training staff.

IAME plays this role by sitting on advisory boards, technical panels, and government committees.

This advocacy work means that your challenges — whether around training frameworks, emissions standards, licensing requirements, or workplace legislation — are represented at the highest levels.

Membership gives weight to this advocacy.

The stronger the membership base, the stronger the collective voice.

By continuing your membership, you are helping to shape the policies that govern the industry’s future.

Professional development that counts

The days of ‘once qualiﬁed, always qualiﬁed’ are long gone.

To remain relevant technicians must constantly refresh their skills and learn new ones. IAME provides a wide spectrum of development opportunities:

• Workshops and seminars on emerging technologies, from EV servicing to ADAS calibration.

• Industry conferences that bring together global and local experts.

• Accredited training to ensure professional qualiﬁcations remain current.

Professional development is not only about technical ability.

Increasingly, IAME also supports members with training in compliance, business management, and customer service — skills that are critical for running a successful modern workshop.

Credibility and recognition

Membership of a respected industry body sends a clear signal: you are serious about your craft.

For businesses, it reassures customers.

For employees, it demonstrates professionalism and pride.

IAME takes recognition seriously.

Certiﬁcates of membership, loyalty awards (25-year and 50-year milestones), and professional grading systems all ensure members receive the acknowledgment they deserve.

Displaying these in your workshop or ofﬁce is not simply decoration —

IAME SEGMENT

it is a statement of credibility and trustworthiness.

Exclusive benefits that make a difference

Practical beneﬁts are another reason to continue membership. IAME members gain access to:

• Discounted products and services, from workshop equipment to publications.

• Exclusive tools, including signage, safety resources, and compliance materials.

• The Online Print Shop, which allows members to quickly order and track branded workshop stationery and signage—saving time and ensuring professionalism.

• Industry events and trade nights, giving members affordable access to knowledge and networking.

These savings often outweigh the cost of membership itself, turning it into an investment rather than an expense.

Supporting industry standards and pride

Beyond the direct beneﬁts, IAME membership is about contributing to the reputation of the automotive industry.

By uniting under one professional banner, members help raise standards, showcase excellence, and promote the sector as a highly skilled, essential industry.

Through initiatives, recognition programs, and public campaigns, IAME actively promotes the work of its members and the value of the trade.

In a time when young people are considering their career options, this visibility is critical to attracting the next generation of automotive professionals.

Community and belonging

Perhaps the most overlooked beneﬁt of membership is the sense of community it brings.

The automotive industry can be

challenging — long hours, rapid change, and constant pressure from customers and regulators.

Having a network of peers to share those challenges, celebrate wins, and offer advice creates resilience.

IAME fosters this sense of belonging. It’s not just about “what you get,” but about knowing that you are part of something bigger than yourself: a

Keeping updated with training and compliance is vital for any savvy mechanic these days.

professional community committed to growth, integrity, and the future of the industry.

The road ahead

The automotive industry is on the cusp of transformation unlike any it has seen before. Electriﬁcation, automation, sustainability targets, and globalisation are reshaping every aspect of the trade.

Those who remain isolated risk being left behind.

By continuing your membership with IAME, you are not only securing resources and beneﬁts for yourself — you are strengthening the very fabric of the industry.

You are helping to ensure that the voices of automotive professionals are heard, that skills and standards remain world-class,

future of

is full of changes — make sure you stay up to date.

and that the industry is recognised for the critical role it plays in Australia’s economy and society.

At the end of the day, membership is not about ticking a box. It’s about pride. Pride in your profession, your business, your community, and your future.

Because together, we are stronger.

For more information, visit: iame.com.au

The

the auto repair industry

The third Noosa Concours proved a sun-kissed extravaganza of high value vehicles and thousands of car enthusiasts

Playground Millionaire’s

WORDS AND IMAGES: IAIN CURRY

Whatever you think of Australia’s mega wealthy, they’re easier to relate to when they have impeccable taste in cars, as opposed to simply spanking their millions on garish clothes, facelifts or at casino tables.

When you see them driving a classic Lamborghini Miura, Ferrari 288 GTO, Mercedes-Benz 300SL or the latest supercar exotica, it’s easy to think: “Yep, if I had the money, that’s how I’d spend it too.”

Noosa’s Concours d’Elegance is a car show with its fair share of well-heeled entrants, as you’d expect from something in the mould of America’s ﬂagship Pebble Beach Concours.

But fair play to them.

They make it accessible to everyone, as witnessed by some 20,000 spectators turning out for this third edition in 2025, all able to enjoy the cars up close without spending a dollar.

Sunshine state

Noosa in winter is a pretty magic place, and the sun gods turned out to ensure the 50 entered cars were bathed in golden rays.

Hastings Street, the town’s main shopping and dining strip, was closed for the cars’ arrival, with thousands of onlookers jostling for position, phones in hand to record proceedings.

The proper oldies come through ﬁrst, with a French 1905 Eugène Brillié 20/24HP pouring out quite the smokescreen, as

you’d accept from a 120-year-old. It’s the world’s sole surviving example of its type, and deservedly won Best Preservation Award for being maintained in near original form.

Some pre-war Mercedes-Benzes, a 1935 BMW 315/1 Roadster, 1937 Wanderer W25K Sports Roadster (the ﬁrst car designed by Ferdinand Porsche) and impossibly elegant 1935 Bugatti Type 57 Atalante next rolled under the pandanas and palm-lined street.

The post-war Brits were next, reminding of the incredibly varied output the Motherland managed once peace had broken out. A 1950 Jaguar XK120; aluminium-body 1950 Land Rover Series 1 80”; 1953 Bristol 403 and 1957 Rolls Royce Silver Cloud I all showed the Best of British.

America and Europe provided most of the show metal, but Australia was strikingly represented with a lesser-spotted 1960 TR Ausca, a roadster whose design was inspired by the gorgeous Maserati A6GCS/53 Spyder sportscars of the mid1950s. With racing number on bonnet and ﬂanks, it was a standout piece of Aussie motoring history.

Shaken, not stirred

The wows continued with a James Bond-like 1964 Aston Martin DB5, rotary-powered tiny 1967 Mazda Cosmo, ’68 Fiat Dino Spider and duo of C2 Chevy Corvettes.

But then the unmistakable rumble of an Italian V12.

There is really nothing like Lamborghini’s Countach, and it’s at its purest in non-

winged, wedge-like LP400 guise.

At Noosa, a 1976 Australian-delivered version prowled the glitter strip, it one of only 22 delivered in right-hand drive.

And, proving that Life Really Isn’t Fair, the same owner paraded his 1970 Lamborghini Miura P400S – one of just six delivered new to Australia.

Clearly, here’s a bloke who knows the right way to spend his money.

Newer delights included a 1988 Ferrari Testarossa, 1991 Honda NSX, 2005 Porsche Carrera GT, 2006 Ford GT and 2016 Pagani Huayra. The latter alone will set you back many, many millions.

Numerous Noosa locals asked me what was the most valuable car on show.

That’s easy, I replied, pointing them in

the direction of the Sunoco-liveried 1973 Porsche 917/30 Can-Am Spyder.

This turbocharged ﬂat-12 legend is one of history’s most powerful race cars, with up to 1600 horsepower realised in its ultimate trim. One of just six made, should one ever come up at auction you’d be looking a well into eight ﬁgures.

While this track-only race legend sadly couldn’t clear its lungs in the parade, spectators did enjoy a 917/30 engine start up and a few gentle blips of the throttle. While it screaming at 8000rpm would have been nice, it probably would’ve exploded a few ear drums and restaurant windows.

The 50 show cars all angle parked along Hastings Street, with handy signs in front detailing their vitals.

Even better, visitors could have an audio guided tour, explaining the cars via narrated insights sent to their mobile devices. For the more personal touch, white-coated ofﬁcials were stationed in front of each car, ready to share details and speciﬁcations about their assigned vehicle.

United by the classics

Best in Show was, like the previous year, snared by local mining magnate and politician Clive Palmer.

His 1935 Bugatti Type 57 Atalante, recently bought at auction for many millions, took top honours, and deservedly so.

Only ten of these Grand Raid two-seaters were built, with just three featuring the Atalante coachwork seen on this car.

Other class winners included the 1935

1911 Mercedes 50 HP Tourer with 7.25-litre four-cylinder whizzes along Hastings St.

A free event means anyone and everyone can get up close to the cars, including the next generation of car enthusiasts.

BMW 315/1 and 1970 Lamborghini Miura, while the Spirit of Noosa award went to one of the few true Australian vehicles on show: a boxy 1988 Giocattolo Group B with midmounted Holden 5.0L V8 engine.

These distinctive coupes began life as Alfa Romeo Sprints, then were heavily modiﬁed just down the road from Noosa in Caloundra, with just 15 built in total before the company shut up shop in 1989.

With muscled arches and oh-so-80s side strakes (like the Ferrari Testarossa), it looked every inch from the decade of big hair and neon.

While serious-looking be-hatted judges with clipboards in hand were considering their decisions, so were “Next Gen” Judges, where local children get to make their verdict on the car that most makes them go “wow”.

Next generation

Little wonder they were blown away by something more modern, choosing the carbon ﬁbre Pagani Huayra with its spectacular gullwing doors.

The 730hp AMG twin-turbo V12 on show also played a part in making this 1-of-100 Huayras the people’s choice too.

And credit to the owner, who added another few kilometres on to the hypercar’s clock, as it’s only travelled

180km since new…or roughly 20km per year.

The good people of Noosa were out in force, some casually rolling in off the beach in boardies or bikinis.

They contrasted with the impeccably dressed contingent, and there were ample VIP experiences in which they could indulge.

A Champagne masterclass, vintage wine tasting, degustation dinners, gourmet canapés, Fashion on Concours, and a sunset cruise on Noosa River. Make no mistake, there was plenty of money in town.

The well-heeled could also plan their next car purchase, with latest models on show from Bentley, Lamborghini, Maserati, Range Rover and Porsche. A few too many gins with lunch and who knows what you’ll end up buying?

For those in the know, the best way to enjoy Noosa Concours is in the late afternoon when most spectators have gone home but the cars remain.

With the sun setting and golden light peeking through the buildings, now’s the time to snare a table at a roadside café and order refreshments.

Then, sit back and watch literally millions of dollars’ worth of some of history’s ﬁnest automobiles ﬁre up their engines and cruise up the street before turning and coming right back again.

Something special

That 120 year-old veteran Eugène Brillié continued its glorious pollution as it chuffed away on its skinny tyres, before the V12 Italians blipped their way past with perhaps the most appreciated way to gulp petrol.

And kudos to the Mercedes-Benz SL300 driver who made a swift exit with those gullwing doors open to best show off the red leather interior and grinning occupants.

Lovely.

In no time at all, the award-winning Noosa Concours has made a signiﬁcant mark on both the Australian and international luxury car and lifestyle event calendar.

You may need deep pockets to afford a car signiﬁcant and immaculate enough to be in the top 50, but the fact Noosa’s open to any and everybody to enjoy these cars for free remains the most impressive and important part of this glittery event.

Continued appreciation for such special cars – all of which reside in Australia – is vitally important.

And for our industry, the maintenance, repair, restoration and renovation of such vehicles is one of the most interesting and rewarding specialist areas open to mechanics.

A Lamborghini Countach engine out job? That’s never going to be a boring day.

Gorgeous 1957 Mercedes-Benz 300SL follows a 1962 version of the same model. You’d need a few million to bag just one of these much sought after convertibles.

SHOCKS & STRUTS

Kelpro’s new range of Shocks & Struts are designed to meet or exceed OEM specifications, ensuring that every component delivers like-for-like quality with enhanced performance, a perfect fit, and smooth installation for any make or model.

SMART SOLUTIONS

Beyond oils and lubricants

Cooling system tools that help prevent the big repairs

hen it comes to keeping vehicles running smoothly, oils and lubricants are just the beginning. They reduce friction, protect engine internals, and support day-to-day performance — but what about the systems keeping everything at operating temperature?

For Aussie mechanics, particularly those working on hard-driven vehicles in tough conditions, a healthy cooling system is just as critical as engine oil.

Overheating remains one of the most common — and costly — causes of engine failure. Without proper diagnostics, cleaning, and sealing, even the best-maintained engines are at risk.

That’s why cooling system maintenance tools like Irontite Cooling System Sealer, Tee-Kay Head Check Combustion Leak Detector, and Irontite Thoro-Flush are becoming essentials in well-equipped workshops.

Let’s take a closer look at how each one helps keep cooling systems reliable and efﬁcient.

Irontite Cooling System Sealer: Fast, reliable, permanent

Available in 150ml and 375ml sizes, Irontite’s Cooling System Sealer offers a practical, workshop-grade ﬁ x for leaks in radiators, heater cores, head gaskets, and more.

It’s designed to seal on contact with air or combustion gases — no breakdown, no clogs. Unlike some quick-fi x solutions that use vegetable fibres or soluble oils, Irontite uses synthetic fibres that form a lasting seal without risking blockage in narrow coolant passages.

It’s safe for all common metals — cast iron, copper, bronze, aluminium — and won’t degrade rubber hoses, water pump seals, or liners.

Modern engines, especially in Australian conditions, run hotter and are pushed harder. Irontite gives mechanics peace of mind by not just patching a leak — but helping restore the system’s integrity long term.

Tee-Kay Head Check: Diagnosing the hidden faults

Some problems can’t be seen — until it’s too late. Cracked heads, blown gaskets, or porous blocks often start small but cause major dramas like coolant loss, poor starts, and overheating.

The Tee-Kay Head Check Combustion Leak Detector is built to catch these issues before they escalate.

It tests for the presence of CO2 in the air pocket above the coolant, turning the test

Irontite has your back when it comes to both ﬂushing and leak protection.

ﬂuid yellow (in petrol engines) or green (in diesels).

The result? A clear yes-or-no answer without pulling the engine apart.

It’s a smart, simple way to verify postrepair work, check for lingering faults, or conﬁrm suspicions during a service. Compatible with petrol, diesel, and LPG engines — and supported with spares — it’s a tool that earns its keep in busy Aussie workshops.

Irontite Thoro-Flush: Industrial-grade cleaning

Leaks aren’t the only enemy of cooling systems.

Over time, sludge, grease, scale, and rust reduce coolant ﬂow and heat dissipation — slowly sabotaging an engine’s reliability.

Irontite Thoro-Flush (455ml) tackles this head-on.

It’s an industrial-strength system

The Tee-Kay Head Check is ideal for tasks like post-repair veriﬁcation, routine diagnostics, or pre-tune-up checks.

cleaner that clears internal build-up without damaging alloy components or plastic parts. Use it during routine services or before applying a sealer to ensure a completely clean system.

By restoring efﬁcient heat transfer, Thoro-Flush also helps prevent localised overheating — one of the key contributors to gasket failure and engine distortion. It’s a simple solution to a problem many workshops see every week.

Smart cooling system care: Just as important as oil changes

While oils and lubricants are critical, a clean, leak-free cooling system is what keeps the engine alive — especially in Australia’s varied climate and work conditions.

With Irontite Sealer and Thoro-Flush, you’re not just reacting to problems — you’re preventing them.

And with the Tee-Kay Head Check, you can make diagnostic calls with conﬁdence.

These are more than just workshop tools — they’re solutions for modern motoring. Available through Warren & Brown Tools, they’re ready to slot into your toolkit and your routine.

Protect the engine. Diagnose the hidden. Clean the system. That’s smart motoring — beyond oils and lubricants. Check out wbtools.com.au for more tools and info

Connecting the DOTs

Bendix joins the DOTs on brake ﬂuid

When choosing replacement brake ﬂuid, it’s important to select one that has a DOT rating that’s compatible with your vehicle, to ensure the braking system functions safely.

DOT refers to Department of Transport — it’s a standard that sets the safety regulations and benchmarks for different brake ﬂuids.

Brake ﬂuids can be DOT 3, DOT 4, DOT 5 and DOT 5.1, and what you need depends on the make, model and age of the vehicle.

SMART SOLUTIONS

Brake fluid ‘dos’ and ‘don’ts’

Bendix has a range of DOT 3 and DOT 4 brake ﬂuids available in several container sizes.

This important information is listed in the owner’s manual and can also be advised by a mechanic or brake technician.

The DOT ratings are based on the ﬂuid’s wet and dry boiling points.

The term ‘dry boiling’ point refers to when the ﬂuid is brand new, fresh from the sealed container, while ‘wet boiling’ point refers to ﬂuid that’s one or two years old and has taken on some moisture and contaminants.

This occurs because most brake ﬂuid types — DOT 3, DOT 4 and DOT 5.1 — are hygroscopic, meaning they absorb water.

DOT 5 however is glycol-based.

Although the braking system is considered a closed system, over time air can enter in several ways: when the cap is removed from the brake fluid reservoir, via microscopic pores in rubber hoses, through the normal driving cycle as the brake fluid heats and cools, or when the brake fluid is replaced.

Generally speaking, the higher the DOT rating, the higher the boiling point and longevity of the fluid. As a hydraulic fluid with the primary function of transferring force from pedal to brake calipers or drums, it’s critical to safe performance that brake fluid remains incompressible.

At lower boiling points (caused by moisture absorption) the ﬂuid can vaporise affecting how force is transferred, leading to a soft or spongy pedal feel and in a worst case scenario, lead to delayed or complete loss of braking power.

● Don’t use old/opened brake ﬂuid bottles – ﬂuid can become contaminated within a few months

● Don’t overﬁll the reservoir – brake ﬂuid expands when hot

● Don’t mix incompatible DOT types. Mixing silicon with glycol-based ﬂuids can cause a gel formation that can damage the brake system and even lead to brake failure

● Don’t ignore a brake ﬂuid leak, it’s a sign that there’s a fault within the system

● Do take care to avoid spilling brake ﬂuid on painted surfaces – it’s highly corrosive to paint

● Do minimise the time the cap is off the brake ﬂuid reservoir and seal tightly

● Do change brake ﬂuid every one to two years, or to the vehicle manufacturer’s speciﬁcation

Approximate wet and dry brake fluid boiling points

DOT 4 fluids are the most widely used – Bendix offers both high performance Polyglycol DOT 3 and DOT 4 fluids, providing optimum performance in both hydraulic and conventional braking systems, meeting stringent Australian and U.S specifications.

Drive efﬁciency with EzyData: Fast Fixes, Smarter Solutions

The ultimate workshop information system ay goodbye to wasted time and say hello to faster, smarter and more accurate repairs.

Burson Auto Parts’ EzyParts platform has already made ordering parts easier than ever.

With the introduction of EzyData, the newest module in EzyParts, it’s also making vehicle diagnostics and repair better than before.

EzyData is designed to give workshops instant access to comprehensive, OEMsourced vehicle data, straight from the same place you buy your parts; EzyParts. No more guesswork, no more precious hours spent Googling or ﬂipping through manuals.

Get the answers you need to start ﬁ xing cars and improving your proﬁt margins.

Powered by HaynesPro’s vehicle database, EzyData allows users to view manufacturer repair procedures, VESA™guided diagnostics, and over 100,000 technical drawings, all linked directly to the vehicle you’re working on.

Transform complexity into clarity with:

• SmartFIX™ Technical Service Bulletins

• SmartCASE™ veriﬁed ﬁ xes

• Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) calibration instructions

• Safety critical recall data

• Realistic labour times

• Electrical component locations

• Fault code analysis

• Everything you need, all in one place!

How it works

1. Search the vehicle rego in EzyParts

2. Once the vehicle workbench loads, click on the EzyData icon

3. EzyData will open and provide all the information you need to complete the job

4. Jump back to EzyParts and easily order the parts needed

Whether you’re chasing down a difﬁcult fault code or locating a relay, EzyData helps you repair faster, smarter, and with more conﬁdence.

Now’s the time

Win $10,000 for your workshop! To celebrate the rollout of EzyData, Burson Auto Parts is giving away 5 credits valued at $10,000 each — a total prize pool of $50,000. All you need to do is subscribe to the EzyParts Pro Package subscription between September 1 and November 30, 2025, and for a minimum of six months, you’ll automatically go in the draw to WIN 1 of these 5 workshop credits.

Increase your chance to WIN by getting three entries when you sign up for the 12-month Pro Package subscription! That’s $10,000 that goes directly into your Burson account — to spend on the parts, tools, and equipment your workshop needs most.

To get started, visit burson. com.au/ezyparts-top-up or scan the QR code, sign up for the Pro Package and enter the draw!

After searching a vehicle rego, EzyData appears on the right-hand side of EzyParts.

Click the EzyData icon to open a full vehicle information window. Get detailed, technical breakdowns of every vehicle system — from brake callipers to sensors.

PERFORMANCE YOU CAN FEEL

Premium Oils, Lubricants & Coolants trusted by the Penrite Racing Supercars Team for durability, performance, and total engine protection.

SMART SOLUTIONS

Australia’s history of automotive safety Buckle up

IWORDS: PETER CAMERON, RESTRAINT TECHNOLOGY

n the year of 1970 Australia with a population of 12.5mil, was battling a growing road toll.

In twelve months alone 3,798 people lost their lives with thousands more maimed and injured. Tragically the state of Victoria led the national road toll with 1061 fatalities or 28 per cent of the Australian total.

By way of comparison the 1970 road toll equates to 30.4 deaths per 100,000 people.

Today the Australian road toll is 4.9 per deaths per 100,000 people; which is a remarkable achievement and commensurate reduction in injury and death.

How was this achieved?

It is a little-known fact that in 1970 Victoria was the ﬁrst state in Australia to mandate the installation and wearing of seat belts.

This initiative was brought about by concerned parties and associations; leading the charge was Dr. John Birrell, Victoria’s police surgeon who was appalled by the growing carnage on our roads; along with the precursor of the Transport Accident Commission (TAC) and the Royal Automobile Club of Victoria (RACV).

In the late 1960’s this group lobbied the Victorian state government, led by Liberal Premier Sir Henry Bolte, to introduce a law making the installation and wearing of seat belts (initially front seats only) mandatory.

In December 1970, Victoria passed legislation requiring drivers and front-seat passengers to wear seat belts.

Other states soon followed Victoria’s lead and by 1972 seat belt wearing was mandatory nationwide, making Australia the ﬁrst country on earth to do so.

Trend changes

There is no doubt that the mandated introduction of seat belts in Australia was the single biggest factor to reducing the road toll and continues to be so.

Over the next 55 years the push for improved occupant safety led by manufacturers, authorities and the motoring public has seen a great number of innovations.

This includes but is not limited to, seat belts, pre-tensioning seat belts, airbags (front, side, knee, curtain), crumple zones, safety glass, laminated glass, head rests, collapsible steering columns, disk brakes, radial tyres, better lighting, side intrusion bars, shock absorbent bumper bars, suspension improvements, anti-lock braking system, traction control system, brake assist, lane departure warning, autonomous emergency braking, forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, rear cross trafﬁc alert, trafﬁc sign recognition and driver attention monitoring.

Maintenance of the aforementioned safety systems is critical however, in our experience seat belts are often overlooked.

Repairs

The most common failure is fraying of the webbing. If the webbing is frayed, or has nicks and cuts, is crusty from dirt, wear and tear it must be replaced.

Worn webbing adversely affects the seatbelt’s ability to sustain the huge loads experienced in an accident.

In this situation Restraint Technology’s re-webbing service can assist. Simply remove the affected seat belt from the

The mandate for vehicles to have seatbelts drastically reduced car fatality statistics.

vehicle and send to us.

We will remove the old webbing and install new ADR approved webbing. We ensure that all sews exceed the ADR standard for seat belts and label our work to show that the webbing complies to the Australian Standards for seat belt webbing which is AS1753.

Other checks should include the seat belt buckle.

Speciﬁcally, the tongue (chrome clip with the square hole in it that inserted into the buckle) must clip into the buckle ﬁrmly without excessive movement and it should forcefully eject once the red press release button is pushed.

If not, replace the buckle and inspect the tongue for damage. If damaged, replace the seat belt as well.

Keeping connected

All ADR approved seat belts must lock if the webbing is pulled out rapidly.

Webbing extraction is easy to check.

Retractors must also lock if rotated in any direction away from their angle of installation. Checking for angle sensitively is more challenging than checking for webbing extraction and if you believe a seat belt is not locking as it should please call us to discuss.

Most modern vehicles are equipped with airbags.

These vehicles are almost always ﬁtted with explosive or pyrotechnic seat belts that are designed to explode and pull tight (pretension) in an accident; and position the occupant correctly in their seat prior to airbags inﬂating.

Any fault in the pretensioner will typically

trigger a warning light or message on the dashboard. If this occurs the vehicle must be taken to the manufacturers service dealership to check the fault and replace if required.

Seat belts have come a long way since Victoria led the world with their mandatory introduction in 1970.

Modern seatbelt systems are highly engineered and must be maintained with the same diligence as brakes, tyres, and other critical components. If you come across worn or damaged belts, don’t leave safety to chance — have them inspected and, if needed, re-webbed or replaced.

At Restraint Technology, we’re proud to help workshops keep Australia’s vehicles roadworthy and its occupants safe.

If you need a seat belt rewebbed or simply have a seat belt question please contact:

Address: Unit 14, 52/50 Malvern St, Bayswater VIC 3153.

Phone: (03) 9729 1988

Before and after — Restraint Technology

New lifeBreathing

The world of classic car restoration was rightly celebrated at Noosa’s Concours, and here’s why it could be the ideal career path

WORDS AND IMAGES: IAIN

CURRY

Be you car or human, getting old sucks. Our bodywork looks battered and tired, our motor doesn’t run like it once did and we become more prone to breaking down.

Any reader over 40 will understand. Cosmetic surgeons, doctors and physios do what they can to mask our ageing, but car restorers do a far more convincing job in their area of expertise.

In fact, so skilled are these artisans, they’re able to restore vehicles to showroom quality or better.

Rest assured, the shut lines and overall ﬁnish seen on most exotica coming out of Italy or England in the 1950s, 60s and 70s wasn’t a patch on what expert resto ﬁrms achieve today.

But do we give enough credit to the craft of car restoration? At car shows –especially the most prestigious ones – you’ll often see a practically perfect prize-winning vehicle on the rostrum, and up comes the owner to receive the plaudits and trophy.

Of course, some owners will have performed the resto miracles themselves, but others will have used professional restorers.

Dusting off

These people or companies sometimes get credit, sometimes not.

For example, the world’s most famous Concours d’Elegance at Pebble Beach just crowned its 2025 champion.

The event’s press release for the world’s media mentions the car’s make and model and its owners – including joyful quotes – but not a whisper about who actually restored the thing to make it the ultimate winner.

A bit of digging reveals it was by Canada’s RM Auto Restoration, and allegedly some 16,000 hours of work were involved.

Sounds like a money-no-object project.

Australia’s Pebble Beach equivalent, the Noosa Concours in Queensland, did things a bit differently in 2025.

Organisers made a point of honouring car restorers and their work, while providing a separate area to showcase the types of crafts involved, and let car show attendees see what a classic vehicle or engine looks like when stripped back ahead of repairs and rebuilds.

It proved a welcome initiative to give the talents behind those perfect shiny show cars proper credit where it’s due. Popular motor sports presenter Mark Beretta was on hand in Noosa to host a question and answer session with restorers, who discussed the importance of preserving history while demonstrating the intricacies of their craft and explaining the modern techniques behind sourcing original parts or recreating period-correct details.

Gently Bentley

It’s important stuff to consider when ogling million-dollar classics.

That ﬂawless metal work, immaculate paint ﬁnish and never-been-sat-in

A stripped-to-its-skin Maserati still holds its V8 within, and proves an ideal showcase to demonstrate the amount of work that goes into a full restoration.

looking leather interior isn’t a miracle of preservation over decades.

It’s the result of hundreds or thousands of hours of meticulous craftsmanship, and the blood, sweat, tears and dollars are well hidden in the car’s perfect presentation.

An Australian company that’s had its restorations shown and win awards at Pebble Beach is Brisbane’s Sleeping Beauties.

At the Noosa event, the company’s James Millar presented a superb display centred around its show-stopping MercedesBenz car transporter with a 1934 Lincoln Model KA V12 on board in the process of restoration, and earmarked for the 2026 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance.

“You can see the amount of time and quality and effort that goes into the body, plus it’s wood framed as well,” James said of the Lincoln.

“This is not something just anybody can do. You can buy no parts for these things at all. Either you have to make it or if you’re lucky, ﬁnd new old stock, but that normally doesn’t happen.”

James said this particular 90-year-old Lincoln is one of just four made with this particular body style, and features a mighty 6.8-litre V12 engine.

Key to its restoration is every aspect of the build taking place at Sleeping Beauties’ premises, where 31 members of staff are employed.

While many restorers specialise in only one or two areas, Sleeping Beauties has separate departments and experts for mechanical, engines, transmissions, body/ panel beating, paint, trimming, electrical,

instruments, assembly, injection pumps, and parts. James said he’s fortunate to have a superb, highly skilled team, but explained it’s very hard to ﬁnd talented people in today’s climate.

Perfection in demand

With thousands of car enthusiasts and younger folk looking at future careers in attendance at Noosa, the restoration showcase has hopefully inspired a few to

consider working in this in-demand ﬁeld.

“I think it’s important for people to see how these incredible show cars got to where they are,” James explained.

“If you just have that side (the ﬁnished show cars) it’s not as interesting as if you have a bit of the getting there. Especially if it’s for a car that’s going to Pebble Beach. That’s like the Wimbledon of the classic car world.”

But how much work goes into a restoration to reach the very top level?

“It’s hard to say as it depends on the car,” James said.

“But maybe three or four thousand hours. We’re lucky as we don’t have to outsource anything, because when you do it’s on somebody else’s timeline and you must rely on them doing everything the way you want it.”

Time-wise, he said his goal was to get complete restoration project times down to about a year for the models Sleeping Beauties is most associated with: the gorgeous and high-value Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadsters and Gullwings from the 1950s.

More unique projects, such as the scenestealing Mercedes truck on show, will take longer.

“We found it in a paddock where it’d been sitting for 30 years,” said James, “and it’s based on the car carriers Mercedes-Benz had in the 1930s to transport W125 Grand Prix cars. But this is a 1968 truck because it’s a lot more useable than older ones. It’ll do 100km/h while a pre-war one would only do 55km/h ﬂat out. Plus, the 1950s and 1960s were the best era for quality at Mercedes-Benz.”

James Millar from Brisbane’s Sleeping Beauties was on hand to give expert advice to those interested in Pebble Beach levels of restoration.

Incredible rivetted metal work catches the eye of Noosa Concours attendees.

Be it mechanical, metalwork, upholstery, electrics or trim, specialists are in strong demand for high value classics.

One we made earlier: A stunning restored MGA looks both concours and race ready.

SHIFTING UP A GEAR

THE DRIVELINE BRANDS AND RANGE TO IMPROVE TORQUE AND PERFORMANCE

At NAPA, we partner with industry-leading brands to offer quality clutch, transmission components, shifters, CVs, and uni joints for various vehicles and applications.

From bearings to joints, specialist tools and consumables, we have everything you need to complete the job and keep your workshop moving.

Spit and polish

Another famed restorer at Noosa was Brisbane’s McKernan Restoration, which had on display a strike-me-dead gorgeous Porsche 910 race replica in white with blue stripe running the length of its curved body.

When we last caught up with company owner Brad McKernan, he said he’d been turning work away such was the demand for quality restoration, and that ﬁnding people willing and able to learn and perform this trade was very difﬁcult.

A stripped-to-its-skin Maserati with V8 engine in situ also proved a popular draw courtesy of Sydney’s MotoRRetro custom design and restoration shop.

Interestingly, it also provides metalworking classes, where those interested can learn classic coachbuilding skills from professionals. Its classes on MIG welding, power hammers, English wheels, handforming and metal shaping look a great initiative for those wanting to dip their toe in the business.

While everyone in the car restoration game will admit the work can be very hard, dirty and requires patience, for mechanics and others in the wider car industry, it appears a nailed-on job for life that’s much

More than parts, NAPA powers your performance. We make it our business to drive yours. Visit napaparts.com.au

Sleeping Beauties’ 1968 truck has been built in the style of Mercedes-Benz’s prewar Grand Prix racing cars’ transporters.

in demand now, and sure to remain so in future.

As the generation of mechanics who worked on cars from the previous century retire or die out, there’s a gap that needs ﬁlled by enthusiastic newbies prepared to embrace and learn “the old ways”.

Much of a modern car’s diagnostics are all done through a digital plug-in, plus

there’s a tendency for a mechanic’s life to be about parts replacement rather than repairing or rebuilding. That life won’t be for everyone.

For those with a passion for breathing new life into classic cars, not only is there work available, but those commissioning the work typically aren’t short of a dollar or three. Many have more than one cherished

vehicle, and as is the nature of anything getting older, there’ll always be work that needs done.

As our world leaps towards a future ﬁlled with digitisation and artiﬁcial intelligence, perhaps the smartest in our game will be those who learn the old-school techniques and crafts before they’re forever lost to time.

The truck holds a 1934 Lincoln Model KA V12 in the process of restoration, being prepared for the 2026 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance.

INNOVATIVE PRODUCTS

Quite the ﬂex

Optimising

wiper

merchandising with Tridon FlexConnect available at Supercheap Auto Trade

In today’s fast-paced automotive industry, mechanical workshops need solutions that streamline operations, save time, and deliver value without compromise.

Supercheap Auto Trade is committed to supporting workshops with products that make a difference — and the Tridon FlexConnect Wiper Merchandiser is a standout innovation designed to simplify stocking, improve efﬁciency, and support better service outcomes for your customers.

What is Tridon FlexConnect?

The Tridon FlexConnect system is built around ﬂexibility and efﬁciency. Unlike traditional wiper ranges, the FlexConnect system separates the wiper blades from the connectors — meaning workshops only stock what they need, when they need it. This modular setup reduces waste,

frees up shelf space, and ensures your workshop can cover more vehicle applications with fewer SKUs.

At the heart of the system is FlexBlade technology, engineered for exceptional wiping performance, superior durability, and clearer visibility in all conditions.

Combined with a multi-clip connector system, the FlexConnect range supports a wide variety of vehicle models with different connector types, including push button, top lock, side lock, bayonet, MB, NX, and RN.

For workshops, this means fewer stock complications and better compatibility, helping you serve more customers faster.

The

Merchandiser: Built for mechanical workshops

Available through Supercheap Auto Trade, the Tridon FlexConnect Wiper Merchandiser (TWM118) is designed

Better pricing, fewer SKUs and trusted quality — there’s plenty to like about Tridon FlexBlade wipers

The Tridon merchandiser features a range of wipers and connectors

specifically for mechanical workshops looking to boost efficiency and profitability. The merchandiser features a curated range of wiper blades and connector packs, covering a wide variety of makes and models straight out of the box. A typical configuration includes:

• Wiper Blades: four of each size (TFC14 through TFC28)

• Connectors: Packs such as HK-10, TL-10, SL-10, TLP-10, PB-10, BY-10 With this balanced assortment, you

Why choose FlexConnect?

● Greater inventory efﬁciency: the modular FlexConnect system reduces the need to carry large volumes of redundant SKUs. By stocking blades and connectors separately, workshops can cover more vehicles with fewer parts, simplifying inventory management and minimising waste.

● Smarter Workshop Operations: having a fully stocked FlexConnect merchandiser on hand means less downtime and faster turnarounds. Whether it’s a same-day replacement or a customer-requested upgrade, your team has immediate access to the parts they need.

● Increased Service Opportunities: the FlexConnect range also helps workshops conﬁdently offer premium replacements for a broader range of vehicles, meeting customer expectations while driving revenue growth. When paired with Tridon’s strong reputation, the merchandiser positions your workshop as a trusted solution for quality, durability, and value.

These water-resistant starter motors are available for common 4WD applications.

Start-up

OEX launches innovative new starter motors

WD enthusiasts love testing their vehicles to the limit, often in remote locations.

If something goes wrong, hours can be spent trying to get the vehicle running again – not to mention the cost of a remote recovery.

OEX explains it has designed and tested an innovative water-resistant starter that handles serious water crossings.

OEX has released its ﬁrst waterresistant starter motors for common 4WD applications, with nine units covering 23 applications for 4WD enthusiasts.

The unit is sealed and has a customised drain/breather tube to help prevent water

ingress and other contaminants.

OEX has also designed a front seal to protect against the most vulnerable point for possible water ingress.

As a starter heats up, it naturally draws moisture in, so OEX is trying to defy the laws of physics with this design, pushing the boundaries of innovation to solve common design and application challenges.

Another recent improvement from OEX includes upgrading the brush holder on 79 and 200 series Landcruiser alternators to avoid premature failure — a particularly vulnerable component due to the low position of the alternator in the engine bay.

When the engine runs, air ﬂows from the rear of the alternator to cool down the rectiﬁer, rotor, and stator.

In wet, dusty, muddy, or off-road conditions, the water, dust, and mud can easily enter the brush assembly through this airﬂow, leading to brush, brush spring, and slip ring failure.

OEX’s innovation is evident in its design of an alternator with semi-sealed brush holders, which minimises this entry of water, dust, and mud into the brush assembly, preventing premature failure.

Moisture ingress is also an issue with alternators, particularly with the 79/200 Series LandCruisers where they are

mounted low in the engine bay. Regular failures occur when moisture enters the brush holder and eventually seizes the brushes.

OEX has a clever innovation to reduce this, extending the life of your alternator and avoiding break downs, particularly in remote locations

Additionally, OEX states it offers two highoutput alternators for these applications, with a custom-made upgrade cable, fuse and fuse holder included in the box.

The OEX range is available at Repco and NAPA. For more information, visit repcotrade.com or napaparts.com.au

Our four step process will thoroughly check the old hardware for effectiveness, replace the webbing with Australian Standards webbing and label to show the work we have done, at a fraction of the new belt price.

Worn seat belt.

INNOVATIVE PRODUCTS

Turning forwards

KYB steering components: The pinnacle of precision engineering

With over 60+ years of experience designing and manufacturing steering components for OE customers, this extensive experience has enhanced the development and quality of the KYB aftermarket range.

Steering and suspension components have a long-standing partnership given both product groups are generally integrated to work cohesively with each other.

Exceeding expectations

KYB Steering components are developed and tested to OE speciﬁcation as a minimum – ensuring any part you purchase matches OE quality or better.

Every detail is engineered for superior durability and simple installation, and all components are subjected to advanced quality testing methods prior to production. These tests include:

• Hardness Control

• Material Load

• Ball Pin Strength

• Rotational Torque Testing

• Link Rod Pull

Within the Australian aftermarket, KYB initially introduced four Steering categories: Ball Joints, Tie Rod Ends, Rack Ends, and Stabiliser Links.

Since their release, these product groups have earned signiﬁcant popularity within the aftermarket, with each range continuously expanded to meet the demands of our valued customers.

In control

In April 2024 KYB released to the Australian aftermarket a range of Control Arms.

“Designed to withstand substantial stress and impact, KYB Control Arms are meticulously manufactured to ensure unparalleled quality and longevity,” KYB Group Product Manager Larry Coulthard explained.

“KYB has perfected the art of suspension technology with each control arm undergoing rigorous durability testing to meet exacting standard. That means reliability you can trust.

“Each KYB Control Arm is laser-etched branding for easy traceability, features

electrophoretic deposition plating for corrosion prevention, and includes natural rubber bushings to ensure supreme control and comfort.”

KYB Control Arms’ exceptional performance and reliability is backed with a new market leading warranty statement of six-years or 150,000km, which applies to all KYB Steering and Suspension automotive products (excluding heavy commercial shock absorbers).

“Just as it is with our suspension components, our process rings true with KYB Steering Components,” Coulthard concluded.

“Perfect ﬁt ﬁrst time, every time. KYB has been steering you in the right direction for over 60 years!

“Elevate your driving experience with KYB — where precision meets excellence.”

If you would like to view the full listing of KYB products, please check out kyb.com.au

KYB Control Arms are built to provide top-quality performance, emphasising longevity. Image:

WHEN YOU LEAVE THE ROAD BEHIND

BE RYCO READY

Whether you’re on the racetrack or the highway, Ryco SynTec Oil Filters are the perfect upgrade when your customers need the best in filtration.

Derived from Supercars technology, they prevent contamination with 98.9% efficiency and are designed to withstand all conditions.

So when your customers need the power of performance filtration, be Ryco Ready.