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Investigating alternative powertrains and fuels
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The latest research and break throughs in the Australian
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Keeping your cool ............................................................................57
Profiting by preparing your customers cars for a hot summer
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ABOUT THE COVER
Next Generation of workshop equipment from
SPX Australia, available from December 2009,
contact SPX Australia 03 9544 6222 or view
www.spx.com.au
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AAAA REPORT
2009/10 National Council Announced
DECEMBER 2009
Peter Hein
President
Stuart Charity
Executive Director
Over 90 people attended the 29th Annual General
Meeting of the AAAA on 19th October. The evening
featured a presentation by V8 Supercar driver Will
Davison who provided an entertaining and
enlightening perspective on the sacrifice and
commitment required to reach the elite level of motor
sport in this country.
At the AGM returning officer Daniel Dunn from
NGK announced the AAAA National Council for
2009/2010. We would like to take this opportunity
to welcome returning National Councillors Andrew
Schram, David Fraser, Graham Scudamore-Smith,
Greg Barker, Peter Martin and Roger Lassen.
The full 2009/2010 National Council is as
follows:
• Peter Hein, NGK Spark Plug (Victoria) –
President
• David Fraser, Capricorn Society (WA) –
Vice President
• Greg Barker, RSP Australia (Victoria) –
Secretary
• Peter Martin, Hella Australia (Victoria) –
Treasurer
• Andrew Schram, Bursons (Victoria) –
Director
• Bob Pattison, GUD Automotive (Victoria) –
Director
• Peter Armstrong, Independent Brake Supplies
(NSW)
• David Duncan, Dayco, (Victoria)
• Roger Lassen, Tenneco, (SA)
• Mark Pedder, Pedders Suspension (Victoria)
• Geoff Rosenbaum, Motospecs, (NSW)
• Graham Scudamore-Smith, Fulcrum
Suspensions (QLD)
The fact that all retiring members of National
Council were re-elected is a strong endorsement by
the AAAA membership of the performance and
leadership of the Council. We would also like to
acknowledge and thank the unsuccessful candidates
for their interest in contributing in the future growth
and development of our Association. The calibre of
candidates in these elections was exceptional and
made for a closely contested result.
Vehicle Lift Project
Over the past two years the AAAA has been
actively lobbying transport regulators for changes to
the National Code of Practice for Light Vehicle
Modification (VSB14) relating to the raising of 4WD
vehicles. In summary we are pushing to allow owner
certification of 4WD vehicles where the vehicle has
been raised by a suspension upgrade of up to 50mm
combined with an increase of up to 50mm in tyre
outside diameter. VSB14 presently allows an overall
maximum of 50mm of vehicle lift, without owner
certification. Total vehicle lift under the AAAA
proposal is 75mm.
Comprehensive testing to prove our position was
undertaken in Queensland in May this year. The
testing was overseen by an independent signatory
engineer and involved putting 5 sets of Original
Equipment standard and aftermarket modified
vehicles through a severe lane change manoeuvring
and braking test.
I am pleased to advise that as a result of this
testing we have accepted an invitation to formally
present and discuss the results of our testing to the
Australian Motor Vehicle Certification Working Board
on 24th November. This Board is made up of
representatives from all State and Federal transport
agencies and is the group responsible for
administering VSB 14. We will keep you updated via
this column on the outcomes of this important
process.
Merry Christmas
It’s hard to believe that Christmas is nearly upon
us! On behalf of the National Council and staff of the
AAAA we would like to wish you all a very merry
Christmas and a safe and prosperous new year.
AAAA
Suite 5 622 Ferntree Gully Road
Mulgrave Vic 3170
Ph: 03 9561 7044 Fax: 03 9561 7066
email: info@aaaa.com.au
www.aaaa.com.au
NSW Office
Box 693 Penrith BC
Penrith NSW 2751
Ph: 0407 866 671 Fax: 02 4731 5671
Email: grahame@aaaa.com.au
Stuart Charity
Executive Director
execdir@aaaa.com.au
PRESIDENT Mr Peter Hein (VIC) – NGK Spark Plug (Australia) Pty Ltd
Ph: 03 9730 4900 Fax: 03 9730 4990
VICE PRESIDENT Mr David Fraser (WA) – Capricorn Society
Ph: 08 6250 9500 Fax: 08 6250 9576
SECRETARY Mr Greg Barker (VIC) – RSP Australia Pty Ltd
Ph: 03 9305 4000 Fax: 03 9305 3520
TREASURER Mr Peter Martin (VIC) – Hella Australia Pty Ltd
Ph: 03 9581 9333 Fax: 03 9584 1741
DIRECTORS
Mr Andrew Schram (VIC) – Burson Automotive P/L
Ph: 03 9914 5555 Fax: 03 9914 5544
Mr Bob Pattison (VIC) – GUD Automotive Pty Ltd
Ph: 03 9243 3333 Fax: 03 9243 3366
COMMITTEE
Mr Peter Armstrong (NSW) – IBS Auto Solutions Pty Ltd
Ph: 02 9892 4004 Fax: 02 9892 2897
Mr David Duncan (VIC) – Dayco Australia Pty Ltd
Ph: 03 9796 4044 Fax: 03 9796 4731
Mr Roger Lassen (SA) – Tenneco
Ph: 08 8374 5212 Fax: 08 8276 1653
Mr Mark Pedder (VIC) – Pedders Suspension
Ph: 03 9706 3500 Fax: 03 9706 3355
Mr Geoff Rosenbaum (NSW) – Motospecs – Drivetech
Ph: 02 9847 5724 Fax: 02 9847 5757
Mr Graham Scudamore-Smith (QLD) – Fulcrum Suspensions
Ph: 07 3892 9000 Fax: 07 3892 1526
4 AU T O M O T I V E A F T E R M A R K E T M AG A Z I N E D E C E M B E R 2 0 0 9 www.aaaa.com.au

AAAA
Australian Mechanical Supplies
73 Pickering Street
ENOGGERA QLD 4051
Equipe Automotive Products
PO Box 138
MELROSE PARK SA 5039
Ph: 08 8277 3344 Fax: 08 8277 4123
NEW MEMBERS
Super Cat Coverters Pty Ltd
Unit 2/23 Bowden Street
ALEXANDRIA NSW 2015
Ph: 02 9319 6295 Fax: 02 9319 3535
Tink Tank Pty Ltd
12/7 Hoyle Ave
CASTLE HILL NSW 2154
CALENDAR
2009
Automechanika Shanghai
Shanghai New International Expo Center,
Pudong, Shanghai, China
9-11 December 2009
www.automechanika.messefrankfurt.com
Hi-Tech Mufflers
344 Bourke Street
DARLINGHURST NSW 2010
Ph: 02 9332 3524 Fax: 02 9360 5919
Intertrade Global Product Imports
Unit 1, 2 Tidal Way
BIBRA LAKE WA 6163
Ph: 08 9418 7044 Fax: 08 9418 7983
Midas Australia Pty Ltd
35A, 1 International Drive
TULLAMARINE VIC 3043
Ph: 03 9867 9200 Fax: 03 9867 9264
Triple Nine Automotive
3/806 Beaudesert Road
COOPERS PLAINS QLD 4108
Ph: 07 3272 9992 Fax: 07 3272 9199
Tuff Nut Products
37 Wills Street
SWANSEA NSW 2281
Ph: 02 4972 0846 Fax: 02 4972 0722
Tumut Auto Spares
62 Russell Street
TUMUT NSW 2720
Ph: 02 6947 1444 Fax: 02 6947 3251
Performance Racing
Industry Trade Show
Orange County Convention Center
Orlando, Florida, USA
10-12 December 2009
www.performanceracing.com
2010
Taipei AMPA
Taiwan
12-15 April 2010
www.taipeiAMPA.com.tw
TAPA 2010
Thailand
28-30 April 2010
www.thailandautopartsfair.com
Automechanika Frankfurt 2010
Frankfurt, Germany
14-19 September 2010
www.automechanika.messefrankfurt.com
2011
Australian Automotive
Aftermarket Magazine
is a member of the
Circulations Audit Board.
The Australian Automotive Aftermarket magazine is the official publication of the
Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA).
Published by
The Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association
ABN 23 002 271 454
Suite 5 622 Ferntree Gully Road Mulgrave Vic 3170
Ph: 03 9561 7044 Fax 03 9561 7066 email: info@aaaa.com.au
NSW Office
Box 693 Penrith BC Penrith NSW 2751
Ph: 0407 866 671 Fax: 02 4731 5671 Email: info@aaaa.com.au
Australian Auto Aftermarket Expo
Melbourne Exhibition Centre
Melbourne, Australia
9 - 11 May 2011
www.aftermartketexpo.com.au
PUBLISHER –
Stuart Charity,
Executive Director
Australian Automotive
Aftermarket Association
EDITORIAL –
Allan Edwards,
Pole Position Productions
Tel 61 3 9331 2608
ADVERTISING MANAGER –
Janene Champion,
Champion Ads
Tel 61 3 5862 3090
PRODUCTION & DESIGN –
Brigid Fraser,
Possprint
Tel 61 3 9505 0121
Collision Repair Expo
Melbourne Exhibition Centre
Melbourne, Australia
9 - 11 May 2011
www.collisionrepair.com.au
AU T O M O T I V E A F T E R M A R K E T M AG A Z I N E D E C E M B E R 2 0 0 9 5

NEWS
HEAT RANGE TESTING OF SPARK PLUGS
If you ever wondered how spark plugs are tested to make sure they will continue to perform in harsh environments, here’s
some insight into how testing is conducted for the Australian and New Zealand markets.
When an engine is operating the spark plug
is heated by the combustion process.
Some of the heat that is absorbed by the
spark plug is transferred to the incoming air
fuel mixture, however most of the heat is
conducted to the cylinder head.
The working environment
There is a delicate balance between the
heat absorption and heat dissipation, with the
aim to get the insulator temperature to reach
the self cleaning temperature of about 500°C.
If the temperature drops below this level
there is a danger that soot and oil from
incomplete combustion will settle on the colder
areas of the spark plug.
This can form a shunting of the spark and
result in misfiring. Conversely if the insulator
temperature is too high (above 900°C) there
will be a dramatic increase in electrode wear
due to oxidation and hot gas erosion, or even
worse, destructive pre-ignition.
How is the heat range of a
spark plug tested?
Robert Bosch Australia carries out regular
heat range testing of vehicles in the Australian
and New Zealand car parcs.
This ensures the heat range listed in its
catalogues is correct for the region.
STOPPING THE INDUSTRY FOR 40 YEARS
Since its humble beginning in 1968 selling brakes and clutches to local trade workshops, Superstop has grown to
become one of the largest independent brake and clutch resellers in Victoria.
So what’s its secret? From its first ever
advertisement in The Free Press in 1979
Superstop has always valued the importance
of advertising.
“Keeping our customers up to date with
the latest products and world leading brands
helps them run a professional business and
helps us to stay ahead of our competitors,”
Superstop Director, Steve Kreti, explained.
Testing is carried out on local vehicles using
local fuels to replicate the driving conditions in
the region.
To do this Bosch uses a large chassis
dynometer at its site in Clayton, Melbourne to
produce the required vehicle loads.
Firstly, for every given vehicle the hottest
cylinder in the engine is found.
This is done using a special spark plug
equipped with a thermocouple that allows
Bosch to directly measure cylinder
temperature.
The hottest cylinder is found because it is
the weak link.
It is the one that will suffer from pre-ignition
at elevated combustion temperatures before
the other cylinder.
It is for this reason the heat range testing is
conducted in this cylinder.
Ionic Current Measurement
The Bosch Ionic Current measurement
procedure uses combustion characteristics to
determine the engine’s heat range
requirements.
The ionizing effect of the flames is used to
determine how combustion develops over time.
This is done by measuring the conductivity of
the spark gap.
Characteristic changes in combustion
Another secret to the success of
Superstop has been its staff.
Mick Cree started with Superstop in 1975
as an eager 21-year-old mechanic.
Thirty-four years later Mr Cree, who
manages the Mont Albert store, admits he
has seen many changes since he first started
as a young man with Superstop.
“In the late ‘70s and early ‘80s Superstop
used to re-bond its own brake shoes and
remanufacture its own clutches,” he said.
“Technology has changed and so have we,
but one thing remains the same - good old
fashion service backed with up to date expert
advice.”
Mr Kreti said Superstop has continued its
winning formula by opening its second store
in South Yarra, Melbourne.
“Distributing some of the world’s best
brands such as Mintex, Pagid, LUK, Exedy
and Boge shock absorbers has really
Bosch spark plugs undergoing heat range testing.
process due to increased thermal loading can
be detected using ionic current and is used in
the assessment of the auto ignition process.
In this way Bosch can make adaptions in
the plug design to prevent thermal ignition from
occurring.
So, when you purchase a Bosch Spark plug
you can be assured that there is an intensive
testing program behind the application found
in the Bosch spark plug recommendation in its
catalogue.
For more information on Bosch spark plugs, or
for a copy of the Bosch spark plug catalogue,
contact your local Bosch representative or call
Bosch Customer Service on 1300 30 70 40.
separated us from our competitors,” Mr Kreti
said.
“Quality is no exception and we will not
put our name behind a product if it’s not the
best.”
Superstop: proudly stopping the industry
for more than 40 years.
Contact Superstop Brake & Cultch on
03 9890 1924
6 AU T O M O T I V E A F T E R M A R K E T M AG A Z I N E D E C E M B E R 2 0 0 9 www.aaaa.com.au

NEWS
VALE: DAVID WARWICK BOYCE 1918-2009
David Boyce, dubbed the King of Automotive Data after founding Boyce’s Automotive Data 50 years ago, died in October.
Mr Boyce first met Institute of Automotive
Mechanical Engineers Chief Executive Officer,
Frank Burgess, in 1969 to discuss publishing
a technical workshop manual for IAME
members.
After much trepidation the Boyce’s 4-In-1
Tune Up Guide 1968-1979 was published.
Unfortunately the printer did a lousy job
and the pages started to fall out, so with
10,000 copies printed Mr Boyce needed to
find a solution to the problem.
He had all the manuals drilled and wire
bound, and it became in such demand that
they were reprinted a few times over.
Mr Boyce then understood that further
technical information manuals were needed by
mechanics and went on to publish Timing Belts
and Chains, Repair Times Guides, Wiring
Diagrams, Lube and Tune, Component
Locations, Wheel Alignment, EFI manuals and
many more other titles.
In 1990 David developed the first
electronic database written in DOS.
Solid as a rock and packed full of quality
tech data, he was very proud of his creation.
However to his surprise not many workshop
owners even had a computer, so he plugged
away and never gave up on his dream that all
mechanical workshops would eventually go
electronic; he was right.
After 50 years of dedication to the
automotive industry, Mr Boyce has passed on the
baton to his son, Mark Boyce, who now heads
the engine room at Boyce Automotive Data.
The company has gone on to offer its
technical services via DVD and online at
www.autolibrary.com.au or www.boyce.com.au
to K-Mart Tyre and Auto, Lube Mobile, Ultra-
Tune, ABS, GoodYear, Jax Quick Fit Tyres,
NRMA MotorServe, Auto-Masters, Future
Automotive Group, Jobson Tyre Group, Tafe
Colleges and many independent workshops.
David Boyce always believed that any
trained mechanic or technician had the right
to repair any motor vehicle and have the
relevant data on hand to do so.
His journey may be over, but his technical
data will remain with us for as long as those
vehicles stay on Australian roads.
NEW MAJOR SPONSOR FOR
COLLISION REPAIR EXPO
Global supplier AkzoNobel Car Refinishes Australia has secured the major sponsorship of the 2011 Collision Repair Expo,
to be held in Melbourne from 12 to 14 May 2011.
AkzoNobel will headline its Sikkens brand
through the sponsorship campaign which will
feature prominently on Expo promotion
material and signage. The company will also
participate in special Expo events, including
the International Seminar Series and live
demonstrations in an onsite spray booth.
AkzoNobel Car Refinishes Australasia
General Manager Joe McFadries said the
company is proud to be named the official
major sponsor of the Collision Repair Expo
2011.
“AkzoNobel has been an exhibitor since
2007. We are excited to be extending this
association and look forward to working with
the AAAA,” he said.
“As the major sponsor, we reinforce our
commitment to supporting Australia's official
industry automotive aftermarket trade show,
where the latest collision repair technology,
products and services are showcased.”
AAAA Executive Director Stuart Charity
welcomed the decision by AkzoNobel to take
on major sponsor status for the 2011 Collision
Repair Expo.
“AkzoNobel is a significant international
player in the industry and we are delighted
that they have become an Expo partner,” he
said.
“To secure this leading international
refinish company as our marquee sponsor 19
months out from the event sends a strong
message about the underlying strength of the
Expo, and the health of the collision repair
sector.
“We have been overwhelmed by the strong
exhibitor response to the 2011 Expo. More
than 60% of the 21,000sqm of available
space has already been taken up by previous
exhibitors, including industry leaders GPI
Automotive Products, 3M Australia, Autoliner,
Car-O-Liner, De Beer Australia, BASF Coatings,
Sydney Automotive Paint & Equipment, BTB
Auto Glass & Body Shop Tools, SIA Abrasives,
and more. So, once we formally launch the
show to the wider industry, we anticipate that
the remaining space will sell quickly.
“We look forward to working in partnership
with the team at AkzoNobel to ensure that the
2011 Collision Repair Expo eclipses the
success of the 2007 and 2009 events,” Mr
Charity said.
The 2011 Collision Repair Expo will be a trade
only show and industry organisations wanting
further information about exhibition and
sponsorship opportunities are invited to
contact 03 9654 7773, email:
auto@aec.net.au, or visit
www.collisionrepair.com.au
XMAS
BONANZA
WINNER
Congratulations to David Wood from
Repco Salisbury who has won Automotive
Aftermarket’s Christmas Bonanza
competition.
Thanks for the great words, and keep
your eye out for the postman as he should
be headed your way with a big bag of prizes.
Enjoy your Christmas bonus on us!
AU T O M O T I V E A F T E R M A R K E T M AG A Z I N E D E C E M B E R 2 0 0 9 7

NEWS
SAE AWARDS
Innovation in safety and environmental performance highlighted the winning entries in the twelfth annual Society of
Automotive Engineers Australasia (SAE-A) Automotive Engineering Excellence Awards.
The 2009 awards entries made a strong
statement for the Australasian automotive
industry through world’s best practice entries
that challenged the economic pressures of one
of the toughest years faced by the global
automotive industry.
The Society’s awards celebrate automotive
engineering excellence for vehicles and
components across the sector, including
passenger, freight and specialist vehicles, and
a Young Automotive Engineering of the Year
Award.
Gold was awarded to MIGfast for the
development of the MIGfast Welding Tips that
reduce energy consumption, costs and
emissions.
The MIGfast Welding Tip is a consumable
welding contact tip that represents a
breakthrough in the traditional design of the
contact tip and addresses fundamental physical
issues of wire transfer through the tip and
continuous current delivery.
For the first time, judges could not split the
runners-up and so two companies received the
Silver award.
Autoliv Australia was awarded Silver for the
development of a new pole side impact crash
simulation sled device.
The new Autoliv pole side impact crash test
equipment accurately reproduces the dynamic
intrusion and deformation of vehicle structure
and seat components, without having to scrap
a whole vehicle after each test.
GM Holden was also awarded Silver for the
development of the Spark Ignition Direct
Injection 2010 Commodore vehicles with
technologies combined to reduce fuel
consumption and increase performance.
GM Holden made fuel efficiency the priority
for its 2010 model Commodores and achieved
significant results, through the application of
new engine technology, mass reduction and
other fuel efficiency enablers.
And GM Holden’s Peter Whitlock was
bestowed with the Young Engineer Award.
An RMIT graduate with Bachelor degrees in
Aerospace Engineering and Business
Administration, Mr Whitlock is the Automatic
Transmission Development Engineer at GM
Holden.
He is also completing a Master of
Engineering degree at the University of
Michigan in the USA.
Mr Whitlock won the judging panel’s final
vote based on clear demonstration of the
personal attributes and learned and developed
skills to meet the award criteria.
His use of various engineering disciples and
methodologies and adoption of new
technologies all played a significant role in his
selection.
SAE-A President Patrick Ross said that the
2009 Awards demonstrated that Australasia’s
automotive engineering foundations are solid.
“The SAE-A Awards are an accurate
measure of automotive engineering in the
region,” he said.
“The strong state of the local industry is also
demonstrated by recently announced
engineering export projects, including the Ford
Figo and GM Holden police vehicle.
“Engineering export programs such as these
are the commercial proof of the creative skills
of our automotive engineers.
“Looking forward, we want to encourage
engineers working in all facets of passenger and
freight mobility to enter the 2010 Awards.
“This includes individuals and businesses
operating in the aerospace, automotive, trucks,
trains, trams, ships and rail sectors.”
Judging Panel Chair, David Ford, said the
scope of the 2009 entries in terms of
complexity and purpose, and the diversity of the
organisations submitting entries, made the task
of the 2009 judging panel very difficult.
“The high standard of entries resulted in
many late nights and is reflected in the fact
that, for the first time, two entries were tied for
the Silver Award,” he said.
“This is a true indication of the quality and
market impact offered by the winners.
“The significant safety benefits, savings in
materials and energy, and their added features
cannot be underestimated.
“The judging panel agreed that the
difference between the Gold and the equal
Silver winners was very small indeed.
“A great deal of debate was required to
make their final decisions.
“This is a commendable outcome from
these companies, particularly in such difficult
times, and we heartily congratulate them.”
The 2009 awards were presented at a blacktie
dinner in Melbourne on October 20.
SAE-A Executive Director, Max Chanter, said
the Society hosted Victorian Small Business
Minister, Joe Helper, who presented awards and
spoke about the vital role of the components
industry.
“We also welcomed SAE–International Chief
Executive Officer, Dr David Schutt, at the
dinner and we thank him for his informative
address on the global realignment of the
automotive industry,” Mr Chanter said.
“As a not-for-profit organisation, the Society
is most appreciative of the RACV’s longstanding
sponsorship of the Silver Award.
“Special thanks to RACV Chief Engineer
Michael Case for presenting two awards this
year.”
Mr Chanter said the organising tea, was also
grateful to BRV Managing Director, Tony Wallis,
who was the after-dinner speaker.
“He told of his work on the development of
an Australian F1 engine technology,” Mr
Chanter said.
“There would be no Awards without people
to evaluate the projects submitted.
“These Awards are judged methodically by a
panel of engineering peers.
“Everyone involved is thankful to Panel
Chairman David Ford and Judges Chris
Shattock, Bill Malkoutzis, Hugh Videion, Prof
Simon Watkins and Prof Harry Watson for their
dedication and time.”
The structure of the MIGfast Welding Tip guides the wire
electrode through the tip and the wire only contacts the tip at a
At 90 milliseconds into the test, the deployment of the protection
single point along the copper bore. This provides a stable
BRV Managing Director, Tony Wallis, held the audience at the awards’
device and deforming of the vehicle components is shown.
extended stickout resulting in a stable arc.
dinner in the palm of his hand with his interesting story.
8 AU T O M O T I V E A F T E R M A R K E T M AG A Z I N E D E C E M B E R 2 0 0 9 www.aaaa.com.au

NEWS
REQUEST THE BEST
MTQ Engine Systems has launched a unique concept to the Australian automotive aftermarket: the Bosch Superstore.
For nearly 30 years MTQ Engine Systems
has been a strong distributor of Bosch diesel
parts.
The company has formed a strategic
partnership with Bosch to diversify and expand
its current product offering to include a full
range of Bosch automotive products.
Traditionally specialists in turbocharger,
fuel injection and performance parts and
servicing, MTQ will now stock Bosch spark
plugs, wipers, brakes, starter motors,
alternators, filters, ignition products, belts, fuel
pumps, oxygen sensors and more with
distribution supported by MTQ’s national
branch network.
“We have been looking at diversification
within the MTQ business and are excited about
this opportunity to expand and provide a
complete Bosch product range to the
automotive aftermarket,” MTQ Chief Executive
Officer, Les Healey, said.
“It will allow us to move forward with our
growth plans whilst providing Bosch the outlet
to be able to supply their full product offering
to the trade.”
‘Request the Best’ is the philosophy driving
the Superstore, with Bosch’s outstanding
reputation for quality being supported by
MTQ’s commitment to deliver the best service.
To deliver a complete package, the
Superstore will also carry PBR, one of
Australia's leading suppliers of brake system
technology.
The PBR brake range has recently been
coupled with the Bosch brake range to
establish the most comprehensive offering of
brake products available from a single entity.
With a focus on brand, quality and
commitment to service, the Bosch Superstore
will deliver the complete Bosch range, all from
one location, when you ‘Request the Best’.
TJM PRODUCTS DOWN BUT NOT OUT
4WD accessories manufacturer TJM Products has advised there may be delays getting products to customers
after a fire ripped through its Geebung headquarters.
The fire caused about $5.5 million
damage and destroyed about a third of the
TJM factory in Brisbane’s northern suburbs
on Friday, October 16.
All staff members escaped the building
without injury after fire broke out in the
aluminium bull bar polishing facility.
Part of the warehouse, offices, a packing
line and stock were all damaged, but fire
walls along with quick action from the
Brisbane Fire Department stopped the fire
from spreading further.
TJM has moved quickly to facilitate
decontamination and cleaning of the
serviceable areas of the premises and
deliveries of stock to the national distribution
network were expected to begin about two
weeks after the fire.
The Research and Development area,
manufacturing factory and about 80 percent
of the warehouse and stock remain intact and
very little impact on manufacturing and
distribution is envisaged after the initial
disruption is overcome.
Demolition and rebuilding of the
damaged building will begin immediately
and is expected to take up to a year.
For sales and marketing inquiries, contact
Don Shewring on 0408 788 856; for export
and OEM contact Michael Everett on
0438 810 024; Scott Keighley can be called
for accounts inquiries on 0400 001 196 and
for production contact Paul Bannister on
0409 057 196.
10 AU T O M O T I V E A F T E R M A R K E T M AG A Z I N E D E C E M B E R 2 0 0 9 www.aaaa.com.au

NEWS
AUSSIE WATER PUMP HEADS TO THE STATES
Iconic Australian automotive cooling technologies manufacturer, Davies Craig is set to release its new street-smart
EWP115 (115 L/min or 1822 gal US/hr) lightweight aluminium Electric Water Pump and EWP and Fan Digital Controller
at the forthcoming annual US SEMA and PRI Shows.
The launch of the new lightweight alloy
EWP115 Electric Water Pump opens a new
chapter in the 40 year history of Davies Craig.
Following the very successful release of the all
new EWP115 reinforced nylon glass models last
December, Davies Craig has continued to test
and develop the alloy model with the view to
offering the automotive aftermarket another great
electric water pump alternative.
"Davis, Craig is a very proud Australian
manufacturing company with a 40-year history
in the cooling technology business. The
launching of our new alloy EWP115 Electric
Water Pump opens yet another chapter in the
company's and will help cater for a niche market
in the automotive aftermarket sector and we are
very excited at the prospects this new product
will offer us globally,” Sales and Marketing
Manager, John Benson said.
“It was the obvious choice to release the new
alloy EWP115 Electric Water Pump and updated
EWP and Fan Digital Controller in the USA and
more specifically at this year's SEMA and the
Australian sales staff such as Darren
Schreuder were on hand to field technical
inquiries and assist the beautiful Xtreme girls
in giving out promotional posters to the
thousands who visited Speedshow in Auckland
recently.
New products launched at the show
included Xtreme’s extension of the Xtreme
Carbon range which now includes FG Falcon
PRI Shows. The USA automotive aftermarket
represents the largest market and growth
potential for Davies Craig cooling technology
products in the world and we are determined to
seek the very best US distributors to ensure this
great product reaches millions of potential
customers in that country.
“We are delighted to be able to offer this
product to the automotive aftermarket world and
both SEMA and the PRI Shows represent
XTREME AT SPEEDSHOW NZ
and VE Commodore variants to suit all engine
combinations.
The Xtreme product was seen in action in V8
stunt utes over the weekend with the new VE
self adjusting units being brutally punished by
burnouts and drifting, demonstrating the
performance and reliability of the Xtreme
product.
Current D1 NZ Champion Gaz Whiter had his
excellent opportunities to showcase our product
to the major US Automotive Aftermarket
distributors, most of whom will have buyers
visiting, seeking to source new products for their
expansive national retail networks."
The new lightweight alloy EWP115 (115
L/min or 1822 gal US/hr) is designed for
universal engine fitment with the high
performance pro, sprint, tarmac, circuit and drag
racer in mind. The EWP115 alloy has 1" NPT
internal threads at inlet and outlet for neat, tight,
dash fitting applications. Its lightweight,
compact, more powerful design is suitable for
small, to large plus high-performance and 4WD
vehicles. It's a vital performance product that
improves engine-cooling management whilst
releasing more horsepower, torque as well as
decreasing fuel consumption. Combined with the
EWPand Fan Digital Controller, the pump
continues to run on after engine shut down
eliminating 'heat soak' and extends engine life.
For more information call 03 9369 1234.
QUADRANT AUTOMOTIVE SUSPENSIONS
Quadrant Automotive Suspensions has been a supplier of Bilstein shock absorbers for more than 33 years
and can help with all of your suspension needs.
Managing Director Jim Doxey said the worldrenown
Bilstein products are fully serviceable
and repairable.
“Quadrant offers a five-year/100,000km
warranty (excluding modified vehicles), that is
how confident we feel about this excellent
German designed and manufactured product,”
Mr Doxey said.
“Combining the world’s best shock absorber
with Quadrant’s 33 years of experience in the
suspension industry, we can offer you the best
possible suspensions available.”
Mr Doxey said Quadrant aims to satisfy
customers by offering expert advice and
assistance on any 4WD, road, race or special
application.
“Quadrant Suspensions is the supplier of
Bilstein shock absorbers for the V8 Ute category
and has designed and developed shock
absorbers, springs and components for Jim
Richards, the Brock Commodores, the Bathurst
1000, Australian Rally Championships,
Australian Off Road Championships, Speedway
and Drag Racing,” he said.
“We have won them all. From these years of
experience we can design and develop a
suspension package for you.”
Quadrant Automotive Suspensions is located
at 63-65 Intrepid Street in Berwick, Victoria.
For more information about Bilstein shock
absorbers or Quadrant’s services, email
sales@squadrantsuspensions.com.au visit
www.quadrantsuspensions.com.au or call
03 9768 9109.
Australian Clutch Services recently took their Xtreme branded product to Speedshow NZ to back up sales efforts
co-ordinated through the vast BNT Store network in New Zealand.
Xtreme Clutch-fitted car on display making the
event a great showcase for Xtreme Clutch
success in motorsport.
Check out www.xtremeclutch.com.au or call
1800 CLUTCH for more information on one of
Australia’s largest ranges of high performance
clutches.
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NEWS
REVVING UP FOR SUMMERNATS
With so much going on everyday, here is a preview of what spectators can expect day-to-day. No two days are the same at
Summernats and obviously we couldn't possibly include everything that is happening, but here are just a few highlights to
whet the appetite...
Thursday 7th January 2010
For the second year, Summernats will host the 'Taste of
Summernats' on Thursday. This will include burnout demonstrations,
cars on display as well as horsepower action in the Dyno Dynamics
Cell. It's a great day to take the kids, as gate prices on Thursday are
cheap, with priority given to parents with children. There is also the
opportunity for the kids to 'hitch a ride' around the block in a real
street machine!
Being family friendly, Thursday is alcohol free until 6pm. After this
time patrons can check out the rocking styles of the Masters of Rock
Show band, playing some head banging tunes in the Jack Daniels bar.
Friday 2nd January 2009
Friday is the first real action day; all trade exhibits are open and
there are awesome cars cruising around everywhere, doing burnouts,
as well as a plethora of cars on display. Meguiar's Judging Pavilion
(Meguiar's Building) is where you can get up close and personal with
elite street machines waiting to be judged as well as the Auto One
Show n' Shine arena.
Also in the Meguiar's Pavilion is the Iwata Airbrush Art Exhibition
where artists will be showing off their creative skills in the incredibly
tricky art of airbrushing. Watch as these artists meticulously and
literally create works of art in front of your eyes.
If its action you're after, head down to the Gen-Tech Horsepower
Heroes Competition eliminations in the Dyno Dynamics Cell, or the
Bridgestone Go-Whoa eliminations on the burnout track, both getting
underway from 9am.
The kids aren't forgotten and there is heaps for them to do at the
Streets Kids Club which is open from 10am-4pm.
The action continues between 2pm-6pm with the Castrol Edge
Burnout Championship eliminations on the burnout track, while those
who appreciate looking at some seriously cool looking cars can watch
the Elite Top 60 Finalists show back in the Meguair's Pavilion.
Saturday 3rd January 2009
Whether you like street machines, enjoy watching the wild
mechanical monsters of Nolathane Tuff Street, or just like to marvel at
the breathtaking Elite Top 60 cars, you'll find yourself struggling to
see everything on Saturday.
Either watch the awe-inspiring antics of the lads at Bridgestone
Driving Skills on the Main Arena, the Auto One Show n' Shine, more
of the Tuff Street Monsters on Nolathane Tuff Street, feel the power of
the Gen-Tech Horsepower Heroes – it’s up to you how you spend your
Summernats!
For a bit of fun there's the High Performance Esky and Big Kids
Crazy Hat competition coming at you from 2pm at the rear of the main
arena grandstand, before the annual Jack Daniels Miss Summernats
eliminations gets underway from 2:15pm.
Watch acknowledged burnout master Brett Stevens take on Steve
Gallace in the Gladiator Challenge.
The PPG Supercruise will take place right after the sponsors'
parade on the main arena. Then, when the sun goes down, things will
heat up with the PPG Stunt Spectacular and fireworks show.
If you're stamina allows, rock out to live music on the grandstand
stage, before the adult entertainment begins with the wet t-shirt
competition followed by exotic dance show between 11pm-1am.
Sunday 4th January 2009
Check out the classic, veteran and vintage cars on show in the main
arena. These magnificently maintained machines really do need to be
seen to be believed.
For the first time ever at Summernats, top fuel dragsters will be
displayed at the main arena. With the ability to make a quarter-mile in
under five seconds with only a parachute to slow them down, see the
people who not only voluntarily get into one of these cars, but love the
hell out of it. These aren't your average race car; we're talking 8,000hp
of racing machine and boy, if you don't see them, believe us when we say
you'll hear them.
Speaking of sound, those who love their bass to be pumping will
definitely want to check out the Car Audio Soundoff and DB Drag Racing
in the Meguiar's building. It's here that you'll find the worlds loudest
car stereos competing against each other to see who has the most
decibels. One of the cars in attendance puts out around 160dbs...louder
than a 747 jumbo jet.
Then it's the award that every street machine entrant is waiting for –
the Street Machine Summernats Grand Champion. Who will prove to be
the best of the best in Australia's largest car show?
For more information on what's happening at Summernats, visit the
website: www.summernats.com.au
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NEWS
BOSCH AND PBR:
BUILDING A BETTER BRAKE PROGRAM
Over the years PBR has been recognised as one of the leaders in supplying high quality brake products to
the automotive aftermarket, particularly brake hydraulics.
However, like many other brake product
suppliers, it didn’t supply a complete brake
program.
But things are changing, with the coupling
of the PBR brake range with the Bosch brake
range to establish the most comprehensive
range of brake products available from a single
entity.
It really is the best of both worlds. Bosch is
a global leader in braking systems with specific
expertise in the development of ABS systems,
whilst PBR has a strong background in brake
hydraulics and foundation brake.
The resultant brake program is significant
because it offers a full range of friction
GUIDE TO SAFE
WORK-RELATED
DRIVING
VACC, the peak automotive industry body in
Victoria, is publicising information aimed at
managers and drivers of company cars and
commercial vehicles.
The Guide to Safe Work Related Driving is an
important document that provides practical advice to
employers and employees on measures they can take to
reduce risks associated with work related driving.
Victorian Roads and Ports Minister Tim Pallas,
Victoria Police Deputy Commissioner, Ken Lay and the
VACC presented the guide at Freight Week 2009.
"Every time you step into your company car or work
vehicle, you are subject to health and safety
regulations," VACC Executive Director, David Purchase,
said.
"The Guide to Safe Work Related Driving spells out,
in clear terms, that a commercial vehicle is a workplace
and employers and drivers have responsibilities."
Work Safe and the Transport Accident Commission
(TAC) has produced the guide which is important
because about 30 percent of all vehicles registered in
Australia are used for business purposes and more than
50 percent of all new vehicles are purchased initially
for commercial use.
A third of all travel is work related, fleet vehicles
travel about three times the distance of the average
private car, fleet driving represents an increased crash
risk relative to non-fleet driving and vehicle accidents
represent 41 percent of all compensated work
fatalities.
To obtain a free copy of the Guide to Safe Work Related
Driving visit www.vacc.com.au
products including disc pads and brake shoes
and a rapidly growing range of disc rotors,
which has been extended to include brake
drums.
It features an expanded range of hydraulic
cylinders, the first available ABS program for
the aftermarket and an impressive range of
brake service consumables including brake
fluid, greases, assembly fluid and brake cleaner.
Brake specialists or businesses with a
serious interest in brake servicing will no longer
need to shop around with multiple suppliers
because it’s all available through one source.
That’s a significant saving in efficiency for any
business.
If you also consider the high quality
expectations of both the Bosch and PBR
brands it is no surprise that more and more
businesses are making this their first choice in
brake.
For more information on any Bosch or PBR brake
products, contact your local distributor or call
Bosch Customer Service on 1300 30 70 40 or
PBR Customers Service on 1300 369 727.
AU T O M O T I V E A F T E R M A R K E T M AG A Z I N E D E C E M B E R 2 0 0 9 13

NEWS
RARE SPARES MARKS 20 YEARS
Rare Spares, founded in 1974 by Les McVeigh, celebrated a milestone for its Rare Spares Bayswater store in October by
reaching its 20th year of business.
The Bayswater store offers a
unique service in the automotive
aftermarket, supplying original
and reproduction restoration spare
parts for older model Holdens and
Fords.
Mr McVeigh still owns and
runs the company with his
business partners of more than 30
years: David Ryan, David Rayner
and Neal Videan.
They started with the simple
shared love for cars, a dream and
a shed in the suburb of Reservoir
35 years ago growing into
arguably the most recognised
name for car parts in the
Australian
automotive
aftermarket.
In 1989 an opportunity to
expand the company into the
eastern suburbs of Melbourne
presented itself.
Rare Spares knew that this
area was underserviced at the
time and a presence was essential
to grow Rare Spares in the
Bayswater area.
Like many companies at the
time, the store faced tough
periods as the Australian economy
was forced into recession.
Although the four partners
originally had very limited
business experience, their love for
cars, the desire and drive to
succeed, and the friendship that
resonates through the company
led to the store’s and ultimately
the company’s success.
Local Mayor Peter Gurr joined
Rare Spares Bayswater staff and
management on their day of
celebration recognising 20 years
of business within the City of
Maroondah.
(From left to right) Lucas Rivenell, Andrew Mangan, Scott Reed,
Steve Brown (Store Manager), Mayor Peter Gurr and Joe Xuereb
(Retail Operations Manager).
“It’s always a pleasure to visit
local businesses and I’d like to
congratulate your business on 20
years of business in the area,” Cr
Gurr said.
“It’s obvious that customer
service is a high priority within the
store and that is reflected in the
success of this business.”
Mr McVeigh said looking back
at the company, Rare Spares
Bayswater was a massive catalyst
in the growth of the overall
company.
“We had just begun a vigorous
manufacturing program both
locally and abroad and needed to
expand our reach throughout
Victoria,” he said.
“The Bayswater Store allowed
us to do that and paved the way
for a successful Australia-wide
distributor network.”
From humble beginnings Rare
Spares has grown into a multimillion
dollar company, home to
55 employees in its five
Melbourne locations and a
distribution network in every state
and territory in Australia and New
Zealand.
The company maintains a
humility of its origins and the
belief that a company’s success is
attributed to the efforts and
contributions of its employees.
Rare Spares Retail Operations
Manager, Joe Xuereb, said: “We
place a lot of emphasis in
developing and maintaining an
encouraging relationship with our
team and have strong policies
relating to the well being of all
staff members, including staff
promotion from within, wherever
possible.”
Rare Spares maintains an
enviable record of having a high
number of employees who have
been with the company for more
than 10, 15 and 25 years, not to
mention multiple family ties
(unrelated to the business
partners) throughout the
company, siblings, offspring and
spouses.
This includes Mr McVeigh’s
daughter Melissa Bernabo and
David Ryan Jnr, the son of David
Ryan Snr, and both now sit on the
Board as Associate Directors of
the company.
Bob Brown, an original
employee at Rare Spares
Bayswater, is still employed within
Rare Spares.
After a long stint managing the
Bayswater store he now looks after
the Rare Spares Roxburgh Park
‘mega store’ while his son Steve
has worked for the company over
the past 10 years and is now the
current Store Manager of Rare
Spares Bayswater.
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NEWS
WHITELINE TALK OF THE SHOW AT
AUTO SALON SINGAPORE
Whiteline recently made a very strong impact at the recent Asia Auto Salon held
at the Singapore Exhibition hall in early October.
Over four days the inaugural show
exhibited well-known tuning houses from
Singapore, boasted aftermarket performance
brands from Japan, Thailand, Singapore,
Australia and capped it off with drift
exhibitions and eye-catching race queens also
getting the cameras flashing and the hearts
racing.
The Whiteline booth showed off products
and marketing material targeted at key
modified vehicles in the Singapore market
along with the main feature, a purpose built
Time Attack EVO 9 fitted with a full
SUPERCHARGE BACKS CORKERY
Carrying the SuperCharge Batteries colours on the Paul Morris
Motorsport-prepared Holden Commodore, young New Zealand driver
Colin Corkery returned to Australia’s Fujitsu V8 Supercar Series in round
five at Queensland Raceway in late August.
Mr Corkery, a familiar sight as a front runner
in his Ford Falcon Ute carrying the SuperCharge
Batteries colours in the V8 Ute Racing series
last year, has held a burning ambition to race in
the V8 Supercar category.
Although making his debut in the first round
of the Fujitsu class during the Clipsal 500 at
Adelaide, it is only now that the business
backing of SuperCharge and other sponsors is
signed off that he has confidently returned to
the track.
This talented young driver adds a new
element to the Fujitsu Series after running in
Nexteer, a new company formed by the sale of
Delphi Global Steering Division to GM Global
Steering Holdings is one of the world’s largest
manufacturers of original equipment steering
pumps, half shaft CVs and steering components
and reputedly the only global Tier One automotive
supplier exclusively focused on advanced
steering and driveline technology.
From early 2008, Australian Power Steering
has been responsible for all aftermarket
replacement sales for the Saginaw sourced
products and existing contracts have been
reassigned to cover the Nexteer brand of steering
parts throughout Australasia. All previous Delphi
complement of Whiteline products and draped
by race queens from Australia and Singapore.
Having dabbled in the Asian market for
some time, the show represented Whiteline’s
official launch into the South East Asian market
with its recently appointed distributor and the
reception was fantastic.
Whiteline Marketing Manager, Andy Nolan,
commented that the recognition of Whiteline
was amazing.
“We have really only started in this market
but the awareness and more importantly usage
of the product is impressive,” he said.
the V8 Development series across the Tasman.
Over the intervening period, Mr Corkery has
tested with the team on a couple of occasions
since Adelaide but is now getting settled behind
the wheel and looking forward to the
opportunities ahead with major corporate
backing behind him.
As one of Australia’s leading battery
suppliers, SuperCharge Batteries is no stranger
to motor racing sponsorship with its corporate
colours also adorning the successful Alfa
Romeo saloon cars.
“Motor racing sponsorship allows us to give
steering parts including steering pumps are now
Nexteer.
Nexteer Automotive of Michigan, USA, which
has manufacturing plants in France, Spain,
Poland, Mexico and China is a major supplier to
motor vehicle assembly plants around the world
including GM, Fiat, Toyota, Chrysler and PSA
Peugeot Citroen as well as automakers in India,
China and South America.
The new program or original equipment
replacements will be sold under the well known
and respected Blue Components brand with
packaging acknowledging ‘Manufactured by
Nexteer, Michigan’ where appropriate.
“There is considerable market potential here
and now that we have a local source for the
product, the business is sure to grow.
“Whiteline will follow up the recent show
with product and tuning training to further
support the local Whiteline dealers.”
back something to the sport and the industry
that supports us,” SuperCharge Managing
Director, Joe Abela, said.
“Support for a young talent such as Colin
provides us with excellent exposure and profile
in a very competitive market.
“We look forward to a successful year ahead
with Colin.”
APS SIGNS EXCLUSIVE AGREEMENT
A leading re-manufacturer and supplier of steering components to the aftermarket has concluded an exclusive marketing
agreement with Rhodes Automotive Mfg. Australia and its parent company Nexteer Automotive.
The agreement means that quality original
equipment replacements will be readily available
for a broad range of vehicles in the Australian car
park, from current models up to 30 years old.
Blue Components replacements are fully
covered by a comprehensive two-year/ 40,000km
warranty and listed in the latest comprehensive
catalogue just released.
Copies of the new catalogue are available from
Australian Power Steering by phoning sales on
03 8586 2315, toll free 1800 335 634,
online at www.bluecom.com.au or
www.australianpowersteering.com.au
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TUSPEED FEATURE
ONE STOP SPEED SHOP
Self described car tragic Adam Courtis has turned a passion for anything automotive into the
Tuspeed aftermarket performance retail store.
Located on Sydney Road in Coburg,
Melbourne Tuspeed has been known in the
online automotive community for the last
five years as an internet-based
performance parts store.
The shop front opened six months ago
and stocks anything from turbos and fuel
systems to electronics, engine and
suspension.
Mr Courtis said it was a fantastic
situation when you play with cars for a
living.
“I used to race remote controlled cars at
one stage and then it became real cars
after that where you’d end up at
someone’s place working on a car,” he said.
“We didn’t have the money to pay for
someone else to fix it and it was something
we all enjoyed doing.
“We wanted to make something work
and we wanted to make it work better
and look better, ride better and sound
better.”
Soon Mr Courtis was importing parts
from overseas for his ride and his friends
began asking him to get items for them.
“I started bringing in a few bits and
pieces for myself and friends would say
‘can you get this for us’ or ‘where’d you get
that’ so I’d bring in a couple of extra bits
for myself along with theirs and it’s really
just grown from there,” he said.
“I’ve been very involved with a number
of clubs including the WRX club and SAU
(Skylines) and it was word of mouth.
“People found out that I could get bits
and pieces and then I put together a web
store and it grew.
“At the time I was working for another
company and it got to the point where it
got big enough to support us so we went
out on our own and formed Tuspeed.”
Mr Courtis was using his house to stock
parts but the business simply got too big.
“You quickly run out of room, especially
when you’re bringing in exhausts and
other bits and pieces that take up space
and it’s hard to explain to people why the
dinner table is propped up by car parts and
tyres,” he laughed.
“We quickly realised when we had
queues of people down the corridor of the
house on a weekend that it was time to
move into a proper store.”
Mr Courtis realised there was a hole in
the niche market of people seeking JDM
parts for Subaru WRXs, Mitsubishi ‘Evos’
and Nissan GT-Rs and he is fast starting to
fill it.
“Six months down the track we’re still
here and it’s travelling pretty well,” he
noted.
Pronounced ‘chew-speed’, the Tu comes
from a longstanding nickname from when
he was a toddler and was easy for
customers to remember.
“It’s quite funny; because it was an
internet based thing I never thought too
much into the name but because we cater
for Japanese cars and customers have
never seen me but dealt with me on the
internet and over email, they expect to
meet a little Asian guy and they’re always
a bit surprised seeing an Ocker bloke
running the business,” he said.
“So it’s probably worked in our favour
as well; it’s probably broken down a few
barriers and if we had another name they
might have thought otherwise about
coming to us.”
Tuspeed imports brands like Apexi,
We were always in it for the
long run and it wasn’t until I
was involved in the industry I
started to realise there has
been some dodgy web guys
out there.
Cusco, HKS and also deals with a lot of
local manufacturers and suppliers
including DBA, Whiteline, Bendix, AVO and
Fulcrum with the ratio 40 per cent imports
and 60 per cent sourced locally.
The beauty of Tuspeed, as Mr Courtis
explains, is that it can offer peace of mind,
warranty and support when a customer
buys products.
“There’s a real big problem with the
eBay stores; there’s a lot of stuff that comes
in and you never know if it is going to be
the right thing, whether you’re going to
get the product or if anything goes wrong
who’s going to be there to help,” he said.
“Since opening the store we have
realised there is not a lot of people in this
field who have a physical store or have the
parts on the shelf.
“Typically it’s ‘sorry, you have to wait
three weeks or eight weeks’; here we’ve
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TUSPEED FEATURE
got a lot of the product in stock so you can
walk in and touch, feel, pick up and know
that it’s actually going to work.”
To set Tuspeed apart from the other
internet-based automotive stores and offer
it credence, the company became an
Australian Automotive Aftermarket
Association (AAAA) member along with the
AAAA’s Performance, Racing and Tuning
Council (PRTC) about two years ago.
“I’d heard about it through the
grapevine and we really wanted to elevate
ourselves as an internet store,” Mr Courtis
said.
“We were always in it for the long run
and it wasn’t until I was involved in the
industry I started to realise there has been
some dodgy web guys out there.
“It has been a good marketing exercise
for us and it allows us to associate with
industry bodies and serious people in the
industry; it’s been a great resource to us.”
HR information along with discounts
are other benefits Tuspeed has enjoyed as
an AAAA member.
“Even with the EFTPOS machine, as
members of the AAAA we got a discount
on that,” Mr Courtis said.
“We wanted to be involved in the PRTC
and so to be involved in that went hand in
hand with the AAAA.
“We thought we’d give it a go and
we’re going to stay with it, for sure.”
Having a heavy involvement with the
turbo side of the Japanese automotive
market has allowed Tuspeed to branch out
into supplying similar parts for
Commodores and Falcons.
“We supply Harrop and a lot of those
more V8 aligned products now,” Mr
Courtis explained. “It’s something we’re
growing into and a growth market for us.”
Mr Courtis drives a WRX and races in
club level competition.
“As far as a driver goes, I have found
out I make a good engineer,” he laughed.
“But it’s good fun to get out and have a bit
of a squirt.”
With that in mind, Mr Courtis
understands that customers need parts
quickly and so the majority of parts
Tuspeed stocks is fast moving products
including brakes, cooling and blow-off
valves.
“We also have a good range of oils and
brake fluids,” he said.
“Because we’re involved with a lot of
car clubs we know when all the race meets
are happening so we’ll stock up on parts
around those times.
“The parts we don’t stock we have
quick access to because of our connections
with Australian suppliers.
“Being able to supply parts quickly is
the point of the whole business because it
gives us an advantage over a lot of people
that don’t have any stock and it might take
three to four weeks to fulfil an order,
whereas we can get it in worse case in a
couple of days for the parts people want.”
Mr Courtis and his wife Cat are both
industrial designers and collect automotive
related collectables.
They have given the Tuspeed shop their
own special touch with some of their
collection on display.
“We wanted to give the place a feel
and didn’t want it to be too slick, we
wanted it to have a workshop feel to it,”
Mr Courtis said.
“The store was a bit of a toe in the
water; we wanted to see whether it had
legs and was viable as a real presence.
“What we want to do with the extra
space out the back is get the workshop side
of things happening; that’s a logical
extension of what we’re doing.
“We want to create the Top Gear of car
stores where you don’t have to be involved
in one particular make or model, it will
hopefully evolve into a car enthusiast
hub.”
And for those that can’t get to the
Coburg store, the online store delivers to
anywhere in Australia.
Tuspeed is located at 137 Sydney Rd,
Coburg and its internet site is at
www.tuspeed.com
For more information,
email sales@tuspeed.com or
call 1300 955 144.
AU T O M O T I V E A F T E R M A R K E T M AG A Z I N E D E C E M B E R 2 0 0 9 19

TECHNICAL COLUMN
Alernative powertrains and fuels -
with Ray Brown
Throughout a series of articles this year we have reviewed a number of new
technologies, which are used within the conventional motor vehicle utilising
conventional fuels. This article will look at the latest and emergent
technologies for alternative powertrains and fuels in response to the necessity
to meet Greenhouse emission policies by reducing carbon dioxide emissions
and increasing energy sustainability using renewable resources.
ALTERNATIVE POWERTRAINS
Flexible Fuel vehicles (FFV)
A Flexible Fuel vehicle is an alternative fuel vehicle with an internal
combustion engine designed to run on more than fuel, usually petrol
blended with either ethanol or methanol, stored in a common fuel tank.
Flex-fuel engines are capable of burning any proportion of the resulting
blend in the combustion chamber, as fuel injection and spark timing
are adjusted automatically according to the actual blend detected by
electronic sensors.
Though technology exists to allow ethanol FFVs to run on any
mixture of petrol and ethanol, from pure petrol up to 100 percent
ethanol (E100) North American and European flex-fuel vehicles are
optimised to run on a maximum blend of 15 percent petrol and 85
percent ethanol (E85). This limit in ethanol is set to reduce ethanol
emissions at low temperature and to avoid cold starting problems.
The model T Ford was the first commercially available flex-fuel
vehicle. The engine was capable of running on petrol or ethanol or a mix
of both by adjusting the mixture screw on the carburettor.
Holden have already announced that they will introduce a flex-fuel
Commodore in 2010, which will run any ethanol blended fuel from
E10 to E85, but also run on normal petrol should the need arise. E85
is not widely available in Australia as yet, but as usual, the market is
expected to respond to any increased demand. V8 Supercars made the
switch to E85 at the beginning of the 2009 season.
Hybrid vehicles
A hybrid vehicle is one that combines two or more sources of power
that can directly or indirectly provide motive power. Most hybrid cars
on the road are petrol x electric vehicles although some manufacturers
have announced plans for diesel x electric hybrid cars.
Combining the power sources of a conventional engine and electric
motor can be done in two ways. For a parallel hybrid, both the engine
and electric motor turn the transmission at the same time to power the
wheels. In a series hybrid, the conventional petrol engine turns a
generator that either charges the on-board batteries, or powers the
electric motor, which powers the wheels. Using advanced electronics
the electric motor can act as a motor as well as a generator.
The key to the performance of a hybrid car is that the petrol engine
can be smaller than that found in a conventional car, as the operation
of the engine can be optimised for maximum efficiency and, when
accelerating, the electric motor can be called upon for support.
The Toyota Prius is a parallel hybrid vehicle but with the addition of
Toyota Hybrid System (THS) provides some of the benefits of a series
hybrid. THS is a power split device using a planetary gear set, which
optimises efficiency and reduces emissions by allowing the engine to
stay within its most efficient load and speed range. It allows the car to
operate as a parallel hybrid – the electric motor or the engine can power
the car by itself, or they can both power the car. This device also allows
the car to operate like a series hybrid, in that the engine can operate
independently to vehicle speed charging the batteries or providing power
Readers are invited to send technical enquiries of a
general nature to brownrc@bigpond.net.au
to the wheels as needed. The planetary gear set eliminates the need for
a transmission and allows the generator to start the engine so no starter
motor is required.
Plug-in hybrid vehicles
Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) are hybrid cars (HEV) with
an added battery. As the name suggests, plug-in hybrids – which
perform and look like regular cars – can be plugged into to a 240-volt
outlet and charged. Plug-ins run on stored energy for much of a typical
days running – depending on the size of the battery, up to 100 Km per
charge – and when the charge is used up, automatically keep running
on the engine.
Toyota, General Motors, Ford, Volkswagen and Volvo have scheduled
introduction of production of PHEVs from 2010 onwards. The General
Motors Chevrolet ‘Volt’, due for introduction into the market during
2010, is an example of a plug-in hybrid vehicle. This global compact
vehicle will have a 120kW electric drive motor with lithium-ion battery
pack of 136 kW peak power, a 53 kW generator and a 1.0L, 3-cylinder
turbocharged engine. The vehicle platform has been designed as a
modular concept to accommodate a range of energy sources to meet the
specific needs and infrastructure of a given market. Energy sources
include fuel cell providing electricity supplied by hydrogen, full batteryelectric
using grid charging or a multiplicity of fuel types to power the
range extending internal combustion engine. Mercedes Benz concept
‘blueZERO’ also utilises a modular design approach for its PHEV.
PHEVs have the potential to enhance electrical generation and
demand. Electrical demand varies greatly; demand is generally high
during the day and low at night. Charging PHEV batteries at night would
take advantage of low demand. As vehicle-to-grid capabilities are
developed, PHEV battery capacity could also be used to help meet peak
electricity demands. PHEV owners would charge their vehicles while
demand and electricity prices are low, and when their vehicles are idle,
sell electricity back to the grid when demand and prices are high. This
may allow utilities to avoid building extra generation capacity to meet
peak demands.
FIG 1: Mercedes Benz ‘blueZERO’ modular concept for Electromobility
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TECHNICAL COLUMN
Alternative fuels
The long-term objectives of alternative fuels for automotive use are
sustainability and greenhouse gas reduction and therefore little is
gained by looking at fossil fuels except where these are in abundant
supply relative to the availability of oil. With the diversification of fuels
available, it is necessary to consider the complete ‘fuel’ chain to
understand the total impact on the environment from production,
processing, transportation, distribution etc through to the use in a
vehicle.
One such study was conducted by Toyota in conjunction with
Mizuho Research Institute to estimate Greenhouse Gas Emissions
(GHG) on a “Well to Wheel” (fuel extraction through to power at the
wheels) basis for many different fuel types. Using an index of 1 for
petrol, some of the results are very interesting. For example a petrol
hybrid is 0.45 (lower score means lower GHG impact), a diesel hybrid
about 0.35, LPG and CNG are approximately the same at 0.8, for
electricity produced by coal 1.2 (worse than petrol) whereas for nuclear
power generation the result is 0; ethanol produced from sugar cane
0.2 and synthetic diesel produced from biomass 0.1. A fuel cell using
CNG is 0.4 whereas a fuel cell using liquid hydrogen is 0.2.
Apart from Greenhouse Gas Emissions, other factors that must be
considered to establish the viability of an alternative fuel include cost,
infrastructure, supply potential and usability which will now be
examined in more detail for fuel types which are the most likely to meet
these criteria.
Ethanol
Ethanol, also known as Ethyl Alcohol, is a clear and colourless
liquid, which is produced from vegetable and plant based materials.
Today most ethanol is produced from starch and sugar based feedstock
such as corn, sugar cane etc. Given the potential impact on food
production, much research is being undertaken to use cellulosic
feedstock. Cellulosic feedstock includes agricultural and forest
residues, grasses, municipal waste and trees.
The reason that ethanol scores so highly in the “Well to Wheel”
index is that the carbon dioxide used to convert feedstock to ethanol
is a little more than the carbon dioxide captured by the crops during
growth.
Ethanol works well in internal combustion engines as it is a highoctane
fuel, suitable for high compression ratio engines, but contains
about 34 percent less energy than petrol. Low-level blends such as
E10 (90 percent petrol, 10 percent ethanol) are readily available in
Australia and high level blends up to E85 (85 percent ethanol, 15
percent petrol) are available in countries such as USA, Brazil and
Sweden.
Synthetic diesel
Synthetic diesel is a method of producing diesel fuel from natural
gas, which is one Earth’s cleanest and most abundant natural
resources. Synthetic diesel is made by using a conversion technology
called the Fisher-Tropsch process, which converts natural gas into the
synthetic diesel, which can then be used in any petroleum diesel fuel
application.
Synthetic diesel provides numerous economic and environmental
benefits over typical petroleum diesel. First of all, synthetic diesel is
sulphur free and free of other petroleum by-products. This means that
synthetic diesel is significantly cleaner, cleaner burning and can be
formulated for superior cold weather performance and fuel system
lubricity. Because synthetic diesel has fewer contaminants, it is lower
in toxicity and it also has a higher cetane rating, like octane for petrol,
it offers better performance over regular petroleum diesel. Synthetic
diesel can be blended with standard diesel and stringent diesel exhaust
emission standards are compelling the petroleum industry to revisit
FIG 2: Mercedes Benz ‘B’ Class Fuel Cell vehicle
synthetic diesel to competitively produce aromatic and sulphur
complying diesel fuel.
Since the late 1990’s nearly every major oil company announced
plans to build pilot plants or commercial plants to produce synthetically
derived diesel fuel. Shell is currently building the largest gas to oil
refinery in the world in Qatar, and when completed, will have a capacity
of 140,000 barrels/day of diesel and other products.
Fuel cells
Fuel Cells have been extensively used throughout the space program
and many vehicle manufacturers believe that fuel cells are the
technology of the future. Mercedes Benz will release a limited
production version of a fuel cell ‘B’ series next year as will Honda with
the FCX Clarity.
Fuel cells convert the chemical energy in hydrogen to electricity,
with pure water and potentially useful heat as the only by-products.
Hydrogen powered fuel cells are not only pollution free, but also have
more than twice the efficiency of traditional combustion technologies.
A combustion-based power plant generates electricity at efficiencies
of 35 percent while fuel cells are up to 60 percent efficient. The
conventional automotive engine is around 20 percent efficient in
converting the chemical energy of petrol into power at the wheels.
Hydrogen fuel cell vehicles, which use electric motors, are much more
efficient using 40-60 percent of the fuel energy.
There are a number of ways that hydrogen can be provided to the
fuel cell. Hydrogen gas can be stored as a gas or liquid hydrogen but
to carry gaseous hydrogen it must be compressed at very high pressures
in special fuel tanks similar to compressed natural gas. Liquid nitrogen,
used in the space shuttle, is super-cold so the fuel tank would need to
cope with high pressures and be super insulated.
Another way to provide hydrogen to the fuel cell is to use a
‘reformer’. A reformer is a device that removes the hydrogen from
hydrocarbon fuels, like methanol, natural gas, LPG or petrol. When a
fuel other than hydrogen is used, the fuel cell is no longer zero
emission, but still very low emitting.
The challenges facing fuel cell development are to reduce cost and
improve durability to cope with the dynamics and vibration of a motor
vehicle. In addition, the distribution costs of hydrogen on a large scale
to fuel motor vehicles will be prohibitive and it is likely that initial use
of this technology will be via the use of an onboard reformer using
methanol, natural gas or LPG as the fuel.
Whilst highly speculative, a 100 year forecast of automotive fuel
supply by General Motors and Shell shows that petroleum based fuels
will continue to dominate energy demand (around 78 percent) until
2050, By the end of the century, petroleum based fuel energy demand
will drop to around 25 percent whereas synthetic fuels and bio-fuels
will account for 50 percent and hydrogen/electricity will meet the other
15 percent.
AU T O M O T I V E A F T E R M A R K E T M AG A Z I N E D E C E M B E R 2 0 0 9 21

PRTC
Enform targeted more than 15,000
performance enthusiasts and industry
participants and invited them to complete
an online survey.
The sample size was 68 percent of
respondents from Australia and New Zealand,
19 percent from North America and the
balance from UK Europe and other regions.
This provides a largely Australian focus
with some North American feedback that
would suit exporters.
Males made up the bulk of respondents
at 97 percent and 79 percent described
themselves as performance enthusiasts
including DIY.
The next largest category was
performance workshop and fitters at 12
percent with the balance going to
manufacturers and wholesalers.
Little surprise perhaps that 80 percent of
respondents saw the web or internet as their
current most relevant source of performance
product information or research however
second to this was print media at 70
percent.
Neither radio nor television rate very
highly with 20 percent thinking TV was
totally irrelevant however the strong third
place holder at 67 percent was talking to
friends and family.
Enform Networks Director, Jim Gurieff,
said this creates a powerful association
between the ‘social’ sources and the ‘media’
channel as the survey showed forums are the
PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS SURVEY
Enform Networks, an Australian marketing consultancy, has released the results of the Australian performance products cusomer
survey to help automotive performance brands better understand their customer and the rapidly changing market.
single most important online resource.
“Forums are the oldest social media
channel and enjoy an 82 percent relevance
score, followed by YouTube and Wikipedia at
30 percent and 28 percent respectively,” he
said.
“Most of the others like Twitter and
Facebook follow very much in the rear but it
has to be remembered that the question was
regarding sources of information and did not
involve branding or brand recognition.
“The industry should be encouraged to
know that 93 percent of respondents
considered it likely that they would purchase
performance products in the next 12 months
and 68 percent considered it very likely.
“It was interesting to see where they
might shop with 73 percent considering an
online retail store outlet (excluding used or
auction sites like eBay) as the likely source.
“This was followed by performance retail
stores at 63 percent and 58 percent
considering online ‘used’ or auction outlets
like eBay as likely sources.
“Workshop fitters rated a very low 44
percent with 16 percent considering it very
unlikely.”
Mr Gurieff believes that some of the
respondent’s comments offer potential
insights into the reasons why.
Some general questions about
performance product services showed using
the web or internet to arrange fitting or setup
services as not very important with 43
TIME TO DRESS UP YOUR VE V8!
SS Inductions has just released its Holden VE V8 Engine Covers.
These are manufactured from high heat plastic
and feature a new style protective heat shield. They
are available in red in a smooth finish the kit
includes mounting brackets and all screws etc
required for an easy fitment.
As well as looking great, they allow better air
circulation under the bonnet which helps reduce
any loss of power through heat soak.
The Engine Covers retail at $399.00 and are
available through any Autobarn, Repco,
Supercheap Auto and other leading automotive
retailers as well as a number of exhaust and
performance outlets.
For more information please contact SS Inductions
on 07 5549 2777.
percent considering it unimportant and 28
percent neutral.
He outlined that social media is still a
very much under-utilised means of promotion
in the auto aftermarket.
Print media is clearly still strong and
needs to be factored in but the survey shows
that any advertising and promotional budget
must make provision for online services.
Mr Gurieff said social merdia turbo
charged the spread of both good and bad
customer experiences, hopefully improving
the positive perception of a company or brand
through strong consumer advocacy.
“We believe the results of the survey have
uncovered a great opportunity for any
Australian automotive performance brand
that is looking for export opportunities and
more effective and efficient ways to market
their products in the performance sector,” he
said.
Enform provides advice, strategies, tools
and training including native search engine
optimisation to improve consumer advocacy,
increase brand awareness and build customer
loyalty.
Mr Gurieff invited companies that are still
skeptical about the effectiveness of the
medium to review the Net Promoter Score
data collected for 26 individual Aussie and
large global aftermarket performance brands.
More information on the Net Promoter Score
can be found at www.netpromoter.org
22 AU T O M O T I V E A F T E R M A R K E T M AG A Z I N E D E C E M B E R 2 0 0 9 www.aaaa.com.au

4WD
FIT IT TO THE GREAT WALL
ECB has released its range of bullbars to fit the Great Wall V240.
Intending to use your Great Wall
V240 as a serious work vehicle or
4wd? Ensure your vehcile is
sufficently protected by adding
serious frontal protection, courtesy
of the ECB Arc Bar designed
speicially for the Great Wall V240.
Manufactured from high tensile,
structural grade alloys and
featuring fully gusseted, 63mm
headlight tubes the ECB Arc Bar
provides superior protection for the
vulnerable bumper, grille and
headlights. A tapered, one-piece
bumper incorporates a full-width, braced lower protection skirt providing exemplary
protection for the delicate mechanics and cooling systems.
The ECB Arc Bar is fitted to the Great Wall V240 by the bumper-cut technique, allowing
the sturdiest and best looking fit possible. This bumper-cut technique also increases the
approach angle of the vehicle, allowing superior navigation of rugged terrain. Standard
features of the ECB Arc Bar for the Great Wall V240 include, spotlight mounting provisions,
an aerial tab, parklight/indicator combinations, air directional cooling vents and ECB Driving
Lights. All ECB products are ADR and air bag compliant and protected by the ECB Lifetime
Warranty, for total piece of mind.
TYPE 8 BAR
For significant bumper, grille and headlight protection look no further than the Type 8
Bar specifically designed for the Great Wall V240. Manufactured from high tensile, structural
grade alloys and complete with a 63mm centre tube the tubular construction of the Type 8
Bar is designed to contour perfectly to the distinct lines of the V240, providing both excellent
protection and good looks. Standard features of the Type 8 Bar include driving light mounting
points and the ECB lifetime Guarantee, for total peace of mind.
63MM SERIES 2 NUDGE BAR
Sports styled for superior looks, the 63mm Series 2 Nudge Bar is the perfect frontal
protection equipment for a city-bound Great Wall V240. Designed and built in Australia, for
our harsh conditions, the 63mm Series 2 Nudge Bar will never rust or corrode. Manufactured
from high tensile, structural grade alloys the 63mm Series 2 Nudge Bar features far superior
strength compared to cheap, foreign-made stainless steel competitors; without the added
weight of steel-based nudge bars. Standard features of the 63mm Series 2 Nudge Bar
include spotlight mounting tabs and the ECB Lifetime Guarantee.
76MM NUDGE BAR
For sporty, sleekly styled impact protection nothing beats the 76mm ECB Nudge Bar.
Manufactured in Australia, for the harshest conditions, this 76mm Nudge Bar will never
corrode or rust. Constructed using only high tensile, structural grade alloys the 76mm Nudge
Bar provides premium strength compared to cheap, foreign-made, stainless steel
competitors; without the extra weight of steel-based nudge bars.
Standard features of the 76mm Nudge Bar include spotlight mounting tabs and the ECB
Lifetime Guarantee.
TRADE RACKS
These stylish, yet highly functional trade racks are a must have for any Great Wall V240
used as a heavy-duty work vehicle. Manufactured from construction grade alloys and
featuring a 76mm diameter these trade racks are incredibly strong and resiliant, enabling
you to safely and efficiently increase the carrying capacity of your vehicle; without adding
the signficant extra weight of steel-based trade racks.
If you require more information call ECB 07 3897 5700.
ARB AIR CHUCKS
RELEASED
ARB has released its range of air chucks
purpose-built to suit ARB's award winning range of air
compressors. The result of substantial research and
testing, the new range includes two durable air chucks
and an inflator with gauge designed to add even
greater versatility to your compressor.
A common irritant among owners of air compressors
is the guesswork required during inflation. The ARB
inflator with gauge addresses this issue by combining a
clip on chuck with a quality, in-line gauge. Featuring a
fully geared precision movement and an easy to read
dial with dual scale PSI/Bar increments, the ARB
Inflator is designed for quick and accurate tyre inflation.
The inflator also incorporates a protective rubber gauge
guard and quality bronze bourdon tube design for added
durability. A 330mm stainless braided flexible hose
allows easy use of the gauge at any angle, while an air
bleed button is included for controlled deflation.
For applications where a long reach is required, such
as with Bead locks, split rims and dual truck rims, the
ARB push-on air chuck makes access simple and stress
free. Featuring a dual chuck for valve access on split
rims the push-on chuck is nickel plated for corrosion
protection and incorporates an easy-grip rubber sleeve
handle.
And for increased functionality for your air
compressor, ARB has also released an air chuck with
clip for applications where an angled chuck is required,
including small wheels and motorcycle rims. The ARB
air chuck with clip features heavy-duty nickel-plated
brass and steel construction for long lasting reliability.
All three products are designed to suit ARB
compressor lines and incorporate an internal air shut
off valve. Coming with a two year warranty, each air
chuck also features the US standard male air fitting, or
can alternatively have the fitting removed and then
retrofitted with any air fitting using 1/4 NPT thread.
For more details on these products and ARB's range of
portable and vehicle mounted air compressors, visit
www.arb.com.au or contact your nearest ARB store or
stockist.
AU T O M O T I V E A F T E R M A R K E T M AG A Z I N E D E C E M B E R 2 0 0 9 25

TECHNICAL PAPERS 2009
Every year different products come to light, and every year new technologies are
developed for use in the automotive aftermarket. Sometimes the only way to keep
up with the technology is to get it right from the horse’s mouth – ask the companies
making the products to tell you more. So we have...
ABS Fault Diagnosis and Repair
Bosch.........................................27
Century Launches New of range
Deep Cycle AGM & Gel Batteries
Century ......................................28
Flywheels Explained: Dual Mass
and Single Mass Flywheels
Exedy.........................................30
The Development of Lokring
Lokring.......................................32
26 AU T O M O T I V E A F T E R M A R K E T M AG A Z I N E D E C E M B E R 2 0 0 9 www.aaaa.com.au

TECHNICAL PAPERS 2009
ABS fault diagnosis
and repair
Intelligent braking systems are a growing trend, with
more and more vehicles on the road equipped with ABS.
This steady growth is already providing workshops with
increased opportunities for repairs and maintenance.
Being a relatively new field there are understandably some
uncertainties in the trade regarding elements of ABS servicing.
Often a warning light appearing is misunderstood to mean that a
part needs replacing. But this is not always the case, as there are
numerous reasons why an ABS warning light may come on.
If the following steps are followed carefully, the unnecessary
replacement of parts which may not be faulty can be avoided.
When a vehicle is presented with an ABS concern, indicated
by either ABS warning lights coming on, or by the driver reporting
an unexpected operating characteristic (e.g. noise, vibration,
wheel lock-up, spinning wheels etc.), the following procedure
needs to be followed.
Procedure
Firstly you need to determine whether the issues raised are
actually related to the ABS system, by eliminating other possible
causes.
Normal operating characteristics of ABS systems
In general, during normal operation the ABS makes several
sounds that may seem unusual at first:
- A whining sound is caused by the ABS hydraulic unit motor.
- When pressure is applied to the brake pedal, the pulsation of
the pedal can cause a scraping sound.
- When the brakes are applied firmly, the ABS operates rapidly,
applying and releasing the brakes many times per second. This
repeated application and release of braking forces can cause
thumping sounds and squeak for the suspension and tyres.
- When the vehicle speed reaches around 10km/h, after the
ignition is switched on, a thudding sound can sometimes be
heard coming from the engine compartment. This is a normal
sound during the ABS system self-check.
For further information on Bosch ABS
replacement parts for the aftermarket please
contact your local Bosch distributor or call
Bosch Customer Service on 1300 30 70 40.
Basic brake system faults
The ABS system can only operate effectively when the
foundation brake system is up to standard. Issues such as unusual
noises, vibration, wheel lock-up and spinning wheels can often
be caused by faults within the basic brake system. Check the
wheel bearing clearance, brake pad and disc wear for any issues
that may be causing the initial concern.
If a fault still exists after all the checks above have been
completed and any issues eliminated, then it is possible there
may be a fault with the ABS system.
ABS system faults
The most likely causes for fault codes are:
a) The malfunction or physical damage of the wheel speed sensor,
connector or wiring harness.
b) Malfunction of the hydraulic unit (integrated with the ABS-
ECU).
1 If an ABS fault is suspected, progress to the ABS diagnostic
procedure, using an appropriate diagnostic tool, such as the
Bosch range of KTS scan tools or FSA vehicle systems testers.
2 Work through the service instructions using the vehicle
manufacturer’s workshop manuals, or Bosch ESI Service
Instruction program. If any memory fault codes are displayed,
refer to the fault code table for a definition and reference to
the appropriate pin point test flow chart for each fault code.
3 Ensure that all memory fault codes are cleared and the vehicle
is road tested prior to confirming the repair. If fault codes still
exist, then the related faults are still present. Perform repair
according to manufacturer’s procedure.
4 Confirm the repair by following the ABS diagnostic procedure
table. If at any time the ABS or traction control warning lamp
flashes or illuminates (other than the normal 3-second period
after the ignition is switched on), then there is a fault in the
ABS system.
5 In the event that the same fault appears, continue to follow the
service instructions procedure. Repeat the same checks and if
no fault is found you may need to replace the ABS modulator,
ECU or assembly.
6 At the conclusion of the road test, if there are no diagnostic
trouble codes (DTCs) shown, the system can be considered to
be working correctly and is ready for return to the owner/driver.
Often ABS work is passed on by workshops not confident doing
the work themselves but it doesn’t have to be this way. With the
correct diagnostic equipment, and a logical approach to fault
diagnosis, ABS repairs and maintenance can easily be handled by
any workshop. And now, with Bosch further supporting workshops
by providing an extensive range of ABS replacement parts in the
aftermarket, ABS servicing has never been easier or more
accessible for the workshop.
AU T O M O T I V E A F T E R M A R K E T M AG A Z I N E D E C E M B E R 2 0 0 9 27

TECHNICAL PAPERS 2009
Century Launches New
range of Deep Cycle
AGM & Gel Batteries
Century Batteries, Australia’s oldest and most recognised battery manufacturer has further enhanced its extensive
product range with the introduction of an exciting new range of Deep Cycle AGM and Gel Batteries
Century Deep Cycle AGM Range
Developed using state of the art manufacturing techniques
and some of the most advanced materials available in the
industry, Century Deep Cycle AGM batteries are the ultimate in
deep cycle battery technology and performance. Featuring
specialist battery plates, extra strong grid designs and superior
active paste materials they deliver long lasting, dependable deep
cycle performance in both recreational and commercial
applications.
Century AGM batteries incorporate AGM (Absorbed Glass Mat)
technology which acts as a sponge like material, suspending the
loose electrolyte within highly porous glass fibre mat separators.
This eliminates the hazards associated with acid spills and leaks
whilst the sealed maintenance free design avoids the need for
regular topping up of electrolyte levels.
Century Deep Cycle AGM batteries have a low internal
resistance and low self discharge rate, enabling faster recharge
and longer shelf life. When fully charged they are robust enough
to be stored for extended periods of time and can be conveniently
recharged using a range of standard chargers and the vehicles
alternator.
Available in a range of sizes up to 120Ah, Century Deep Cycle
AGM batteries are ideal for use in applications where fast
recharge, improved vibration resistance and superior deep cycle
performance is required, including recreational vehicles and
accessories, dual battery systems, golf carts, mobility scooters,
marine systems, Arial work platforms and commercial machinery.
Century Deep Cycle Gel Range
Century Gel Deep Cycle batteries are the latest in deep cycle
battery technology, designed to deliver long lasting, dependable
deep cycle power in the harshest of operating conditions and
environments.
The Century Gel range incorporate gel electrolyte technology
which holds the battery plates securely in an immobilised gel, not
liquid electrolyte, making them extremely robust, resistant to
vibration damage and will not spill or leak when accidentally
tipped upside down.
The range is completely maintenance free, requiring no
topping up of liquid electrolyte, whilst the valve regulated sealed
design enables installation in confined, hard to reach locationsperfect
for RV’, Caravans and marine applications.
Century Deep Cycle Gel batteries incorporate a range of
advanced design features to maximise durability and cycle life
performance. They offer improved recovery from a deep
discharge or when temporarily stored in a discharged state and
deliver longer cycles of power when compared with equivalent
flooded Deep Cycle batteries.
Available in 75Ah to 100Ah sizes, the Century Gel Deep Cycle
range is ideal for recreational vehicles and accessories, electric
powered vehicles, scooters, wheel chairs and solar power
systems.
Both Century Deep Cycle AGM and Gel batteries are backed
with a fully comprehensive nationwide 12 month warranty and
supported with one of Australia’s most extensive sales and
distribution networks.
To find out more information on Century Deep Cycle AGM and Gel products contact your Century Batteries
representative on 1300 362 287 or visit www.centurybatteries.com.au
28 AU T O M O T I V E A F T E R M A R K E T M AG A Z I N E D E C E M B E R 2 0 0 9 www.aaaa.com.au

TECHNICAL PAPERS 2009
Flywheels Explained:
Dual Mass and Single
Mass Flywheels
By now, many of you would have seen and perhaps installed a Dual Mass
Flywheel (DMF). This Technical Paper seeks to explain more about this
technology, including an outline of alternatives available to you and your
customer when it comes time to replace a worn DMF.
EXEDY stocks a wide range of
DMF and SMF clutch systems.
Further information is available at
www.exedy.com.au or by calling
1300 366 592.
What is a Dual Mass Flywheel?
The Dual Mass Flywheel derives its
name from the two main components (or
masses) that operate independently of
each other. The primary component (or
mass) is fitted with a ring gear and sensor
ring (if applicable) and is attached to the
crankshaft. This primary component
usually incorporates a dampening
mechanism typically made up of torsion
springs and friction washers that are
ideally suited to absorb torsional
vibrations within the drive train. The
clutch unit is then bolted onto the
secondary component. Quite simply, a
DMF is a damper for your drive train.
Why does a DMF fail?
A DMF can fail for a number of
reasons, but the most common cause will
be wear and tear. Like any other
component on a motorcar, the DMF will
wear out over time. Other causes of
failure may relate to driving technique,
overloading the drive train when towing
or increasing the engine torque to a point
where it exceeds the torque capacity of
the flywheel.
How do I know if the DMF needs to
be replaced?
Flywheel specifications vary from
manufacturer to manufacturer and as
such, there is no one test that indicates
whether the flywheel has reached the end
of its service life. There are however some
generic telltale signs that indicate to the
installer that the flywheel should be
replaced such as grease or oil leaks; or
noisy operation. EXEDY recommends that
the best and safest option is to replace
the DMF each time the clutch is
replaced. Furthermore, we strongly
recommend that you do not grind,
machine or attempt to repair a DMF.
These actions are fraught with danger as
it is not possible to machine or grind the
flywheel surface accurately without
removing the secondary component from
the primary mass. Attempting to machine
or rebuild a worn DMF will usually result
in the premature failure of not only the
flywheel but the new clutch set as well.
What are the options when it comes
to replacing the DMF?
The replacement of a worn DMF
system with another DMF and clutch
package is an obvious option. However,
the cost of this option is sometimes
prohibitive and as such EXEDY has
developed a range of Single Mass
Flywheels (SMF) which are sold together
with the clutch cover assembly, clutch
disc assembly and release bearing to
replace the DMF clutch system. The
main advantage of a SMF clutch package
is the price - these systems are generally
cheaper to purchase. Furthermore, as the
SMF has no moving components, they
can be machined and re-installed into
the vehicle when a subsequent new
clutch is fitted thereby reducing the
future cost of maintaining the clutch
system. The conventional SMF is
extremely robust and are for example the
preferred choice for vehicles used in
Nissan Patrol DMF kit
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TECHNICAL PAPERS 2009
Nissan Patrol SMF kit
racing or commercial applications. While
the SMF replacement clutch system is a
popular choice, it is however important
to note that despite the durability and
price advantages, these systems do not
possess the same dampening
characteristics as a DMF and on
occasion, may not sound or feel like the
DMF system that is being replaced.
Therefore, when recommending a
replacement clutch and flywheel system
you should communicate to your
customer the pros and cons of replacing
the DMF or of fitting a SMF in its place.
This will enable your customer to make
an informed decision regarding which
replacement system best suits their
budget and needs.
AU T O M O T I V E A F T E R M A R K E T M AG A Z I N E D E C E M B E R 2 0 0 9 31

TECHNICAL PAPERS 2009
The Development of
Lokring
In the early 1960s, a Swedish design
engineer working at NASA designed an
alternative to the welding of fuel lines.
The concern with a weld is that unless
X-rayed, there is no way to be sure
that solder has penetrated and filled
the gap between pipes fully and that
there are no weakening bubbles
hidden within.
By designing a mechanical joint, these concerns were overcome. The Lokring system
was not immediately employed however following a tragic accident with the APOLLO
programme in the mid 1960’s, Lokring was re-assessed and implemented. It was during
this time that the benefits of Lokring as a general tube joining system were realised
and Vulkan, a German company established in the 1880’s, acquired the worldwide
rights to Lokring as a joining solution to the refrigeration industry.
The development of Applications
• Automotive Manufacturers found Lokring to be a solution to joining aluminium tubes
at evaporators in air conditioning systems. (1980)
• Appliance manufacturers began using Lokring to join copper to aluminium and
aluminium to aluminium. (1981)
• European service companies started using Lokring for service due to the
implementation initially of R134a (because of need for inner tube cleanliness and
small molecular size of refrigerant) and ultimately R600a as a refrigerant. Service
Lokrings and tooling were developed.
• Automotive AC technicians began using Lokring to join aluminium tubes on vehicles.
( 1995 – GM were the first OEM to approve and implement LOKRING) This led to
the development of a large range of fittings with Lokring as a base.
• Larger sizes (up to 35mm) were developed and found application in the HVAC field.
The cleanliness of the Lokring system did not require the purging of nitrogen during
pipe installation. The evolution of OH&S requirements such as Hot Work Permits
and other constraints involved in the welding process has seen this market expand.
In 2009 there are more than 1.2 billion Lokrings in service. Last year more than
120 million Lokrings were installed.
How does it Work
Vulkan Industries Far East Pte Ltd
12 Wollong St, Gosford, NSW 2250
Ph 02 4322 8533 Fax 02 4322 8599
www.vulkan.com.au
info@vulkan.com.au
A cutaway showing a typical
alloy to alloy connection
A typical automotive Lokring service connector consists of four separate components;
one joint, two Lokrings and an anaerobic solution called Lokprep. Lokprep is added to
the outside of the tubes which are then inserted into the union joint. Using the Lokring
hand tool, the Lokrings are forced over the joint which in turn is down-swaged onto the
tube. A hermetic metal-to-metal seal is made by this compression with the Lokprep
accounting for any longitudinal imperfections in the tube surface.
• Taper A is a leading edge that enables the Lokring to be forced onto the joint.
• Taper B is the sealing area. Somewhere along this taper the tube is compressed to
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TECHNICAL PAPERS 2009
The illustration above shows that the Lokring has three separate tapers indicated by A, B & C.
Lokring connector for use with
barrier hose (also requires a
bead-lock tool)
its elastic limit. This means that should the
Lokring be removed, the tube would return to
its original size. It is this elasticity that allows a
margin of tolerance in tube size variations.
(Note: a Lokring can only be removed by cutting
it off.)
• Taper C compresses the tube
beyond its elastic limit adding
considerably to the forces that are
needed to pull the tube out of the
connection.
This connection type has been
tested by TUV-Nord, a German
testing authority, to remain stable
and leak free with an operating
pressure up to 5000kPa. A safety
factor of four times has been built in ensuring
that burst pressure is not reached until at least
20000kPa.
Demands from the automotive AC service
industry have seen the development of the
Lokring range to include fittings for nearly any
tube-to-tube, tube-to-hose or hose-to-hose
required.
The Lokclip Development
Cutaway of a Lokclip connection
The Lokring
handtool
In the mid 2000’s the Lokclip product was developed for the automotive industry. Lokclip
allows the installer to use the existing Lokring handtool to join tube to reduced barrier hose with
a change of jaws. This negates the need for a bead-lock crimping tool when making new hose
assemblies or repairing existing reduced barrier assemblies. As with the Lokring range, the Lokclip
range has now expanded to cover nearly any automotive AC requirement.
Lokring products for automotive air conditioning are available direct from the manufacturer,
Vulkan Industries, or from their main distributor, Highgate.
Highgate Car Air-Conditioning
376 South Rd, Richmond, SA, 5033
Phone number: 1800 151 515
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PRODUCTS
Trico commercial
blades
With a drastically reduced inventory Australia's
commercial vehicle parc can now be serviced
with just seven wiper blades from Trico's new
Heavy Duty wiper blade range.
The release of this new (TBHD) range
means that a store or workshop will require just
seven heavy-duty genuine Trico commercial
blades ranging from 400 to 700mm to service
up to 95 percent of the trucks and light
commercial vehicles on our roads.
Bosch expands Asian range
Bosch is continuing to focus on expanding its Asian
range with the release of another five part numbers
to add to its current product offering.
These part numbers will supplement the first
units that were released for Asian applications
just over a year ago.
The new Bosch units have been built
specifically for Asian applications,
combining compact designs with high
levels of output and efficiency.
The new part numbers will include
starter motors for popular Australian
vehicles, including Mazda, Nissan and Ford
models and alternators suitable for several models
of Mitsubishi and Fords.
All units meet original equipment specifications and are manufactured using only the
highest quality components.
For more details on any product in the expanded Asian range of Bosch starters and alternators,
contact your local Bosch distributor or call the Bosch Customer Service Centre on
1300 307 040.
Using lateral thinking, two years of detailed
market research and the production of a range
of multi-fit adaptors, the long standing
headache for stockists of carrying more than
50 part number to service the Australasian
commercial wiper blade market has been
overcome by Trico.
Each wiper blade pack contains six highly
engineered adaptors including large and small
hooks; bayonet; pin on arm; pin on blade and
bridge applications.
The commercial Trico blades in the program
are manufactured to original equipment
specifications with 100 percent natural rubber
wiping inserts and the size range includes
popular 400, 450, 500, 560, 610, 650 and
700mm lengths.
To assist with the launch and to create an
attractive retail presence Trico will launch a
merchandiser (TRR-02) carrying two of each
blade plus two packs of universal length rubber
refills under part numbers TTR610-20 and
TTR710-10.
The blades and refill packs are also sold as
individual parts.
Available from leading automotive and
transport Trico stockists the new commercial
range will be welcome news for retailers and
fleet operators seeking to reduce inventory and
maximise sales and profitability.
For more information call 03 9271 3288
Mitsubishi EVO X Gearset launched
Albins Off-Road Gear has launched a first to
fifth Group N Dog Engagement Gearset to
the global market after extensive testing
and development.
Already a manufacturer of high quality
gearset products for various applications
such as Porsche, Subaru and Mazda the
company based in Ballarat, Victoria has
further expanded its range with the new
EVO X product with a view to penetrate the
global market.
Featuring many additional components
not offered by competitor companies as
standard, the new set represents the
thorough research and development that
this ISO 9001 quality assured company
dedicates to new product creation.
Suitable for rally applications as well
as circuit racing use, this direct-fitment
gearset product offers instantaneous gear
shifting with or without the use of the
clutch combined with significantly increased power holding capabilities.
Priced at $10,650 plus GST the EVO X Group N rally gearset is competitively priced and
is complemented by billet driveshaft options and other driveline componentry that has already
been successfully tested in Australian Rally Championship.
Leaning on its envied reputation as a long-standing supplier to top-level rally teams including
a near 10-year association with the legendary Possum Bourne Motorsport in New Zealand,
Albins is keen to work with new motorsport teams seeking to better results in their chosen
category.
For more information contact Albins via 03 5335 8022, email sales@albins.com.au or visit the
Albins website at www.albins.com.au
AU T O M O T I V E A F T E R M A R K E T M AG A Z I N E D E C E M B E R 2 0 0 9 35

PRODUCTS
New radiator hose part numbers
Gates has released 31 new radiator
hose part numbers, for eight
popular applications.
Gates is continually committed
to providing its customers with a
complete and comprehensive range of
hose. Gates radiator hose is factory
moulded to fit specific applications, similar
to OEM specifications.
The new part numbers are suitable for various applications
including Honda Accord, Suburu Forrester and Toyota Landcruiser.
By installing a Gates radiator hose with patented ECR technology that's
proven to fight the primary cause of hose failure, you will prevent the risk of your
customers being stranded on the side of the road.
For more information or for a copy of the Gates catalogue call 03 9797 9688 or
visit www.gatesaustralia.com.au
Narva’s useful twin
USB power adaptor
Narva has released a useful power adaptor
ideal for items powered by USB ports such as MP3
players, cameras, PDAs and GPS.
Suitable for both 12 and 24-volt vehicles, the new
adaptor is fuse protected, incorporates an LED power
indicator light and fits conveniently into a standard cigarette
lighter or vehicle power socket.
The output is five volt two amp (one amp per socket).
Narva’s twin USB Power Adaptor comes packed in an attractive retail
blister with clear and concise product information to enhance retail sales.
Available from leading automotive outlets under part number
81039BL the adaptor comes with a suggested retail price of $19.95.
More details can be found by visiting the Narva website at
www.narva.com.au
Extended life
adds value for
Nulon customers
Nulon has long been known for market
leading lubricants, coolants and
additives and is becoming recognised
as being at the forefront of pioneering
new technology to the Australian
market.
Lately, this has been seen in the
form of the award winning ‘Multi-
Vehicle’ ranges of automatic
transmission fluid and the new power
steering fluids released late this year.
Nulon also has a proud history of
being Australia’s most trusted brand of
Type A Glycol-based concentrated antifreeze,
anti-boil coolant.
It was the first with distinctive clear bottles and first to offer the
rapidly growing market of Red Long Life OAT coolant, now
commonly used in late model vehicles.
With a strong and innovative history it was a natural progression
to expand the leading range of coolants for the Australian market.
Although Type A coolant is often recommended for vehicles
manufactured after 1984, there are many vehicles that still need
servicing with a good quality Type B radiator coolant.
These cars require a very good quality corrosion inhibitor, to
protect metal components, but they do not require the full antifreeze,
anti-boil properties that Type A coolants offer.
Nulon’s New Type B coolants offer superior corrosion inhibitor
technology offering excellent anti rust and corrosion protection and
superior heat transfer for maximum cooling efficiency.
This gives Nulon Type B coolants an extra safety zone in both
time and distance for no extra layout.
Contact Nulon on 1800 679 922 or visit www.nulon.com.au
for more information.
AU T O M O T I V E A F T E R M A R K E T M AG A Z I N E D E C E M B E R 2 0 0 9 37

PRODUCTS
LEDs outshine everything else
One of the first automotive workshops to adopt the rugged new Hemipro High Power Worklights reports that
they have defied all efforts to kill them and they continue to provide much better light than ever before.
Cameron Brooks of Brooks Motors, Albury’s
Suzuki dealership and Land Rover specialist
described the lights as “bloody excellent”.
“They have been dropped, kicked, knocked,
thrown and they are still shining brightly,” he
said.
“Previously we used normal LED portable
lights, but since we got Hemipros the other ones
have stayed on the shelf.
“These are much better, because not only
are they tougher, but also they provide a
significantly broader spectrum of light and
much greater clarity.
“The older blokes here used to grizzle that
sometimes they couldn’t see things properly
under the bonnet, and had to take them outside
so they could. Now they are real happy.”
Manufactured by Cliplight and being
introduced to Australasia by GO Distribution,
Hemipro work lights are designed to provide 10
years or more of optimum clarity and safety in
maintenance tasks.
They incorporate the use of high-power LEDs
in work lights for the automotive repair market,
with strong benefits also for applications such
as industrial heavy vehicle, electrical, farm and
machinery maintenance workshops.
Their retail appeal is further enhanced by
being highly appropriate for consumer use
around campsites, caravans and the booming
number of recreational vehicles and associated
activities.
So outstanding is their performance that
they were selected as a product of the month
by the USA’s Professional Tool and Equipment
News magazine.
Using either two or three high power LEDs,
the Hemipro two LED and three LED work lights
provide exceptionally powerful beams.
GO Distribution Director, Gary Oborne, said
these respectively equal or exceed the light area
intensity of a 60W or 75W beam.
“What really sets the Hemipro lights apart,
however, is the patent-pending, uniquely
engineered hemispherical lens design, which
refracts the LEDs into an exceptionally clean,
bright and wide beam,” Mr Oborne said.
“The highly modified lens design captures
and transfers the powerful LED light into a
super-wide 70-degree beam, while also
eliminating hot spots, dull areas or irritating
halo rings.”
Mr Brooks says these qualities will be an
advantage in the prestige and show work his
company undertakes, including drag race
vehicles and a custom Harley that recently won
Best Bike at the Sydney Bike Show.
With the attention to detail required carrying
out the day to day servicing of vehicles it is
essential to have the best workshop lighting
available.
Hemipro incorporates features to help
ensure its longevity including a tough
polycarbonate patent-pending Lumiguard lens
shield.
This protects the lens and can be easily and
quickly replaced if it gets scratched, cracked or
tarnished.
Rather than throwing away the entire work
light, users can simply replace the Lumiguard in
less than two minutes.
Similarly, the super strong NiMH 2500
milliAmp hour battery in the two LED and three
LED cordless models are rechargeable and
replaceable.
However, Mr Oborne said replacement will
not happen too often because the battery has a
life expectancy of three years under normal use.
The two LED can be used up to five hours
between charges while the three LED is good
for three hours between charges. Even the 360-
degree swivel hook can be replaced.
Hemipro complements an innovative range
of HVAC products available from GO
Distribution, including Super Seal sealants that
help remove the need for expensive faultchasing
and repairs to commercial, industrial
and automotive air conditioning and
refrigeration systems.
For more information contact GO Distribution on
02 6026 4886. To see Hemipro LED Worklights
in action, visit www.cliplight.com/automotive and
view the Hemipro video.
AU T O M O T I V E A F T E R M A R K E T M AG A Z I N E D E C E M B E R 2 0 0 9 39

PRODUCTS
Brake parts assembly fluid
For nearly 50 years, PBR has been supplying OE manufacturers with brake
assemblies in high volumes.
To ensure the integrity of these
systems, lubricants used in the
assembly process are rigorously tested
in its Research and Development
facility to guarantee they achieve the
long term performance demanded by
some of the world’s leading automotive
companies.
Now the same lubricants used in
PBR’s OE applications are available to
all brake servicing professionals,
making life a whole lot easier for brake
specialists doing any work where
assembling rubber parts to rubber or
metals, is required.
When assembling rubber parts it is
critical that the integrity of the delicate
sealing areas is not compromised, as
this can result in leaks or a deterioration of the service life of the assembly.
PBR assembly fluid facilitates the precise joining of individual
components and thus supports functional reliability, preventing damage to
the seals during fitting.
PBR brake parts assembly fluid is perfectly suited for all of your general
brake assembly needs where the fitting of brake rubber parts is involved.
It is also suitable as a rust preventative for steel automotive brake
components, as it does not need to be removed prior to the subsequent
assembly with SBR and EPDM rubber components.
This assembly fluid contains a special synthetic oil base ensuring
compatibility with DOT 3, DOT 4 and DOT 5.1 brake fluids.
For maximum convenience and economy, this assembly fluid is available
in both a 150ml squeeze bottle and a 370ml aerosol can.
Both enjoy a minimum shelf life of three years, if stored unopened in a
dry, frost-free place.
Being the same fluid as that used in the assembly of Australian Original
Equipment braking systems, you can be assured of the performance and
quality of PBR assembly fluid.
For further information on PBR’s brake parts assembly fluid or any other
product in the PBR range, contact the PBR Customer Service team on
1300 369 727.
Universal in-tank fuel pump kits
Since the early 1990s, various Asian vehicles have used a variety of
38mm diameter in-tank electric fuel pumps for high pressure fuel
supply.
Many of the variations in application are due to differing fuel
pump flow rates and strainer designs.
To simplify servicing in many of these applications, Bosch has
released a new ‘universal’ 38mm fuel pump kit, containing two
different aftermarket grade strainers, an electrical adaptor and
associated hardware.
The choice of two common strainer designs provides broad
application coverage and the inclusion of the electrical adaptor means
this unit can also be used to replace pumps that use a small pin-type
or post style electrical connection.
The new Bosch BFP038 universal in-tank fuel pump kit comprises
an OE quality, Bosch manufactured, 38mm “turbine” design electric
fuel pump with a flow rate
of 105 l/hour at 3.0 bar
pressure, E10 ethanol
compatibility and high
quality internal materials
for superior performance
and reliability.
It also includes a
70mm and 100mm
common pump strainers,
with retaining clip for
broad application coverage
and a pre-wired electrical
adaptor with bullet style
terminals to replace pumps that use a small pin-type or post style
electrical connection.
The BFP038 is essential for any business repairing Asian vehicles
and generously covers more than 40 part numbers in the market
including BFP473; BFP474 and 0 580 453 477.
Pre-ordering a few in advance would definitely save time on your
next applicable Asian vehicle repair job.
For more information on the BFP038 kit, or any other products in the
Bosch range, contact your local Bosch distributor, or call Bosch
Customer Service on 1300 307 040.
AU T O M O T I V E A F T E R M A R K E T M AG A Z I N E D E C E M B E R 2 0 0 9 41

PRODUCTS
AP-LED looks after resellers
AP-LED Products has released a new range of LED Lighting, which is ideal for the truck, trailer,
and RV markets.
What makes AP-LED products so
appealing to resellers is its quality of
construction and presentation.
AP-LED has been designed to meet the
harshest environment and treatment that
can be dished up by the Australian
Automotive Aftermarket.
Features such as polycarbonate lenses
ensure exceptional impact resistance.
Issues affecting the life of a light such
as dust, water ingress, and vibration are all
addressed with resin sealed circuitry
providing a light of exceptional quality and
up to 100,000 hours of life.
All of this when combined with
extremely low current draw and true value
for money make AP-LED's the light of
choice.
12-volt and multi-volt systems are
catered for ensuring you have the correct product for the correct application. Its products
also carry ‘E approval’ to ensure quality, consistency and compliance.
What makes this range so appealing to the reseller is the packaging. AP-LED has gone to
great lengths to provide a complete range of LED Lighting.
The quality and consistency of packaging means not only an impressive lighting display
for the store, but also an informative range of on pack features that provide ease of decision
making for the consumer as well as the opportunity to provide up-selling and add on
opportunities for your store.
AP-LED has also listened to the resellers by providing merchandisers that readily
demonstrate the features of the product range, consumers are able to make an informed
decision on how the light looks lit up, experience has shown that merchandisers more than
earn there space by inviting the consumer to consider retrofitting current vehicle lighting
arrangements with the impressive light output and features AP-LED's provide. Merchandisers
conveniently plug onto standard 240V outlets.
AP-LED, through its distribution network, can tailor a range to suit your store needs,
whether it be a selected range with the small merchandiser or a comprehensive range with
the large merchandiser we can provide a range to generate exceptional sales for this growth
category.
For more information call 1800 101 276.
Nulon leads the industry
again
After launching its awardwinning
Multi-Vehicle
Automatic Transmission Fluid,
Nulon has released a new
technology in power steering
fluid.
Covering a multitude of
specifications, Nulon’s 100
percent Synthetic Multi Vehicle
Power Steering Fluid heralds a
new generation of advanced
technology to the Australian
market.
The 100 percent synthetic
formulation not only provides suitability for most
power steering systems but provides extreme
performance and protection benefits for motorsport
and performance driving.
The new synthetic blend offers the ultimate in
anti wear protection often needed in the hot
Australian climate and has been specially formulated
to suit most power steering systems of Australian,
Japanese, American and European cars.
This also benefits driver performance with
reduced steering vibration and shudder and provides
a quieter feedback.
The product’s labels make it an easy choice for
all, with the requirements clearly marked on the
bottle like below.
Nulon’s Multi Vehicle Power Steering Fluid
completes a comprehensive line up with the
traditional power steering fluid and power steering
fluid with Stop Leak Formula, designed to meet all
budget, mechanical and high performance needs.
For more information on Australia’s fastest growing
lubricants company give Nulon a call Free on
1800 679 922 or visit www.nulon.com.au
AU T O M O T I V E A F T E R M A R K E T M AG A Z I N E D E C E M B E R 2 0 0 9 43

PRODUCTS
Premier Auto Trade catalogue
range expanded
Premier Auto Trade (PAT) has announced
two new updates to its comprehensive series
of product catalogues with the release of the
second edition Ignition Coils and Crank and
Cam sensor catalogues.
Furthermore, PAT has implemented a
new online catalogue, produced specifically for its
network of specialised resellers.
The catalogues feature a fully colour coded and easy to search layout
with detailed vehicle application information and high quality colour
images of every component.
The new catalogues retain the highly regarded user-friendly format for
which the PAT range has become renowned, remaining focussed on
addressing the requirements of distributors and resellers in this time
precious market.
PAT’s expanding range of ignition coils now includes 310 part numbers,
covering more than 2100 ‘direct fit’ vehicle applications and making it one
of the most comprehensive range of ignition coils in the Australian
independent aftermarket.
The rapidly growing range of crank and cam sensors now includes 207
crank sensor and 91 cam sensor part numbers covering more than 1800
direct fit vehicle applications, unmatched in the Australian aftermarket.
With PAT’s commitment to acquiring parts from the world’s leading
brands, not only do all of its components deliver high performance and
meet OEM quality, more than 90 percent of the components it supplies are
sourced from the OE manufacturers including Delphi, VDO, Bosch, Denso,
Pierburg, Hitachi and Valeo.
PAT has also recently launched for its resellers a new online catalogue
with an easy to use high-speed search interface.
The new online catalogue includes the very latest information,
constantly updated, with easy to reference data for thousands of parts and
vehicle applications.
The new online catalogue now includes product photographs for easy
recognition of components, and includes the ability to allow the
comparison of two product photos next to each other for cross referencing.
The Premier Auto Trade catalogues and online access are available to
specialist resellers and distributors.
For more information contact Premier Auto Trade on 03 9585 7993 or visit
www.premierautotrade.com.au
New Gates Coolant hose packs
Gates has released another two new coolant
hose packs into its extremely popular range.
Gates coolant hose packs take the hassle
out of shopping around for coolant hose parts.
Each hose pack includes the relevant hose
parts you need for a complete hose service, and
also includes the required clamps.
The two new part numbers are suitable
for Ford Falcon BA/BF and Holden Commodore
VZ.
• Don't risk it - to prevent the risk of hose
failure, change all major cooling system hose.
• Fit the best - with patented ECR technology, Gates hose is proven to
fight the primary cause of hose failure.
• Fit Gates - the most respected and trusted brand of hose, and preferred
by most professional technicians
For more information call 03 9797 9688 or visit www.gatesaustralia.com.au
New LED range
Flexible Drive Agencies (FDA) has announced a new range of LED beacons
and strobe lights for the Australian market.
The ACOT500 range, manufactured to exacting specifications,
includes small and large beacons with both available in magnetic
models. It includes a full range of colours including amber, blue,
magenta, white, red and green.
Additionally there are small, tall and large strobe beacons and many
have selectable flash patterns.
The range has excellent light qualities and most bases are compatible
to other brands on the market making replacement easier.
Features include lightweight construction, compact design, low power
use, long life, impact resistant lens, polarity and surge protection.
Complementing the range are LED clusters, modular light bars and
back-up alarms.
FDA believes the quality, supply, backup, warranty and pricing
ensures that the ACOT500 product will rapidly become a leading
national brand.
For more information visit FDA’s website on www.fdrive.com.au or call
1300 36 37 35.
AU T O M O T I V E A F T E R M A R K E T M AG A Z I N E D E C E M B E R 2 0 0 9 45

PRODUCTS
Quality and value underpin K&N range
K&N high performance air filters, oil filters and air intakes are now readily available in Australia.
Less than 12 months ago, Motospecs was
appointed as a distributor of the extensive K&N
filter range, giving Australian motorists and
mechanics the opportunity to enjoy easy access
to one of the world’s most trusted and reliable
automotive aftermarket brands.
Motospecs carries more than 1700 K&N
product lines in stock, virtually guaranteeing that
the item required for almost any application is
immediately available.
Motospecs Group Products Manager, Gerry
Nabaro, said more than 100 part numbers have
been added to the range in the past six months
alone and that demand for K&N products is
constantly increasing.
“K&N products are in a class above their
competitors,” he said.
“Air filters from K&N, for example, will
continue to perform for over 80,000kms before
cleaning is required.”
According to Mr Nabaro, it is this reusability
that distinguishes them from other filters on the
market.
“You really only need to purchase one K&N
filter for the life of the car, and you just take it
out and wash it when the vehicle is being
serviced,” he said.
“This is a quick and easy process, which
saves workshops valuable servicing time while
also saving the customer money.
“There is also the inherent environmental
benefit of choosing a reusable product.
“The washable replacement element range
covers many new applications including FG
Falcon, Prado 120 series, Toyota Aurion, Ford
Fiesta and Nissan Navara intakes.”
K&N air filters, oil filters and air intakes are
manufactured to the highest standards, and are
the result of significant air filtration research and
testing, conducted continually in both K&N
facilities as well as independent laboratories.
“K&N don’t produce your standard, run of
the mill air filters and related products. They are
superior products that are designed to give you
more horsepower, better acceleration and more
fuel efficiency,” Mr Nabaro said.
“K&N is a globally renowned brand, which is
simply huge in the USA, Britain and Europe.
“The reusability, durability and reliability of
K&N products makes them incredibly good value
in the long run.”
For customer service, orders and product
availability call 1800 605 673 or visit
www.motospecs.com.au
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PRODUCTS
Australian debut for top selling fuel stabiliser
The launch of America's top selling fuel stabiliser on the Australian market opens up new market
opportunities for retailers in the automotive, boating, farming and home markets where petrol engines
are not in regular use.
The world-renowned STA-BIL Fuel Stabiliser
marketed in Australasia by international
company Trico Products, addresses the serious
issue of stale fuel that can create problems for
engines that are stored for periods without use.
Fuel that is stored either in a can or in the
engine fuel tank starts going stale after a little
more than a month resulting in hard starting,
poor performance and reduced engine life.
When added to fresh fuel, STA-BIL Fuel
Stabiliser stops the formation of gum and
varnish in modern engines.
It contains corrosion prevention additives to
fight the damaging effects of ethanol in fuels
and cleans fuel injectors and carburettors,
restoring performance.
Marketed for more than 40 years and
recommended by more than 100 engine and
equipment manufacturers, STA-BIL Fuel
Stabiliser is safe to use in any petrol engine and
is used by millions throughout the world.
It contains no additives that can harm any
engine, fuel injectors or catalytic converters but
until now has been virtually unknown to
Australian market consumers who are yet to
experience the benefits of this amazing additive.
When storing engines for longer periods,
many people drain the fuel tank creating a host
of additional problems as it is impossible to get
all the fuel out of the system simply by draining.
It generally requires the fuel lines to be
blown out otherwise sufficient fuel will remain
in the system to gum up the engine.
Once drained of fuel, bare metal in the tank
and system are exposed to air and moisture
causing harmful rust and corrosion to form.
Additionally, gaskets tend to dry out and
crack leading to leaks when the system is
refilled.
Drained fuel also creates its own problems
when attempting its disposal in an
environmentally safe way.
The addition of STA-BIL Fuel Stabiliser to
fresh fuel will keep it fresh for 12 months.
With double the recommended STA-BIL
dosage, fuel will remain fresh for more than 24
months and its use with ethanol-blended fuels
prevents induced water attraction and
separation.
STA-BIL is a concentrated formula that
requires just 30ml per 9.5 litres of fuel.
Suitable for all petrol engines the extensive
market potential applications for STA-BIL covers
cars (including classic, veteran and vintage);
inboard and outboard marine engines;
motorcycles; lawnmowers; motorised garden
blowers and equipment; chain saws and
generator plants.
Once a bottle of STA-BIL is opened the
formula will remain good for two years.
New STA-BIL Fuel Stabiliser is available from
leading automotive and marine wholesalers in
handy 118mL, 236mL and 473mL size bottles
with attractive support material.
The new product launch is backed by an
extensive advertising campaign.
Inquiries to Trico 03 9271 3288
48 AU T O M O T I V E A F T E R M A R K E T M AG A Z I N E D E C E M B E R 2 0 0 9 www.aaaa.com.au

PRODUCTS
Dayco offers NAK oil seals
Dayco Australia’s commitment to providing total quality aftermarket automotive solutions to Australian automotive repairers continues with the addition of
premium quality NAK oil seals and a specially formulated oil seal lubricant with all Dayco timing belt kits.
The new Dayco timing belt kits
that include NAK oil seals and oil
seal lubricant are being
progressively rolled out to the
Australian aftermarket as existing
quality Dayco timing belt kit stocks
are depleted.
The quality of replacement oil
seals and the correct lubricant
required is critical to ensuring a
reliable timing belt kit replacement.
In seeking the best quality oil seals
for Dayco's premium quality timing
belt kits, the selection of NAK
sealing products represented the
leading choice.
Globally renowned NAK engine
rotary seals use premium quality
rubber sealing elements and high
performance materials in their
manufacture, making them suitable
for high speed and high
temperature applications.
NAK Sealing Products are
Original Equipment suppliers of
choice to several major general
automotive and industrial vehicle
manufacturers, including
Volkswagen, Mercedes Benz,
Toyota, Nissan, Peugeot, Citroen
and Kia.
Dayco timing belt kits with world
renowned NAK Oil Seals and a specially
formulated oil seal lubricant are being
introduced progressively to the
aftermarket from October.
Only premium materials are
used in the manufacture of Nak
Sealing Products.
Where a vehicle’s original
equipment specification calls for Du
Pont Viton
Fluroelastomer seals that is
exactly what the customer receives
within their Dayco timing belt kit for
that specific application, along with
the compatible synthetic based oil
seal lubricant.
The same applies for
applications that call for nitrile,
poly, silicone, high density nitrile,
natural rubber and felt seals as
original equipment.
There are a number of
manufacturers throughout Asia that
are producing oil seals in different
colors to create a perception that
they are able to withstand higher
temperatures and different
synthetic oils.
It is important to note that this
is not the case. It is the belief of all
at Dayco
Australia that the market has a
right to know exactly what they are
receiving, hence the reason that
Dayco has initiated the following
colour coded system:
• NAK Black = NBR (Nitrile)
• NAK Blue = ACM
(Polyacrylate)
• NAK Orange = VMQ (Silicone)
• NAK Brown = FKM (Viton)
This system gives the fitter or
end user complete clarity on what
they are buying and fitting and is
being phased into the Dayco timing
belt kit program.
NAK has also gained significant
local vehicle experience with its
products being used in Australia for
more than 25 years, ensuring that
local aftermarket applications are
better represented in the updated
Dayco timing belt kit range.
The Dayco specific oil seal
lubricant has been designed to the
ideal viscosity that allows even
application and spread during
assembly, while also protecting the
oil seal during operation.
Pre-assembly lube is the most
important single product used when
fitting an oil seal.
Without the right lubrication,
damage to the oil seal and other
parts can possibly occur within the
first seconds of start up.
Quality aftermarket products are
never about compromise. The
Some of the coloured NAK oil seals along with the specially formulated Dayco oil seal
lubricant that is included in each Dayco Timing Belt Kit.
addition of NAK oil seals with a
specially formulated oil seal
lubricant to all Dayco timing belt
kits further enhances Dayco's
reputation as a world leader in the
automotive aftermarket.
No other aftermarket timing kit
supplier offers a specifically
developed oil seal lubricant within
the one complete aftermarket
timing belt kit.
NAK Australia General Manager,
Simon Tesoriero, said combining
the company’s premium quality
sealing products with the premium
quality Dayco range of aftermarket
timing belt kits makes perfect
sense.
“The addition of the lubricant to
best ensure the correct fitment of
the NAK oil seals within each kit is
also a well thought initiative,” he
said.
“NAK sealing products are an
integral and reliable component to
the updated Dayco aftermarket
timing belt kit range.”
The new Dayco timing belt kits
featuring NAK premium quality oil
seals and specially designed oil seal
lubricant are being progressively
rolled out to the market.
AU T O M O T I V E A F T E R M A R K E T M AG A Z I N E D E C E M B E R 2 0 0 9 51

PRODUCTS
Alltrade unleashes new product
Alltrade has unleashed a revolutionary new product on the market called
the Powerbuilt Digital Torque Adaptor.
Available in 3/8 and ½” drive, this
handy tool converts any ratchet into a
torque wrench.
Adding to its appeal, it can also be
used as a calibration device, making it a
vital addition to any tool box.
The Powerbuilt Digital Torque Adaptor
has an array of exciting features,
including four torque measurement
settings (Ft-lbs, in-lbs, Newton-Metres,
and Cm-Kg), a memory slot that records
and stores the last 50 readings, and both
peak and trace settings.
Its three-colour LED light indicator and
progressive audio notification will also ensure
that you always reach an accurate torque level, while its functionality
and value is enhanced by its potential to act as a calibration device for
existing digital and analogue torque wrenches.
The 3/8” model features a display range of 20-100 ft-lbs, while the
½” version is from 30-148 ft-lbs, offering quality and precision.
The Powerbuilt Digital Torque Adaptor is available nationally through
all quality tool retailers.
For more information contact Alltrade Australia on 03 9770 8300
Carbon multi-plate clutches
The Xtreme Brand of clutch product is no stranger to
stringent SFI approved safety standards.
Australian Clutch Services (ACS)
prides itself on being the first clutch
company in Australia to achieve SFI
approval many years ago.
Today ACS has product approved
under the highest levels of
endorsement by the SFI foundation
including Specification 1.1, 1.2, 1.3,
1.4 and 1.5 meaning that there is an
Xtreme Clutch product even approved for use in
Nitro Methane, Supercharged, Nitrous Oxide Injected and Alcohol Drag
Race vehicles.
The recent SFI approval of the Xtreme Carbon Clutch range of multiplate
clutches involved SFI engineers spinning the Xtreme Carbon
Clutch to more than 18,000rpm for periods exceeding one hour.
This approval and the fact that SFI Specification 1.5 is shared by
only 17 other companies worldwide is a testimony to not only the
quality of the product, but is a demonstration of the leadership within
the clutch industry that ACS prides itself on.
The new SFI approves Xtreme Carbon Clutch range can be viewed at
www.xtremeclutch.com.au or phone 1800 CLUTCH for more information.
52 AU T O M O T I V E A F T E R M A R K E T M AG A Z I N E D E C E M B E R 2 0 0 9 www.aaaa.com.au

PRODUCTS
Ryco expands technical staff
Australia’s leading filter specialist, GUD automotive, has expanded the number
of technical staff at its Tottenham head office.
This way, the company says, its growing range of Ryco filters will continue
to offer users the very latest world-class standards in quality, performance and
durability.
The advanced facility, which includes product design and laboratory testing
specialists, has been continuously working at the company’s Tottenham site
for 50 years.
It has always been part of the way Ryco have stayed on top of demand for
product ranges to suit oil, fuel, air and cabin filters.
Testing Ryco filters are GUD technical staff (left to right): Sylvia Debrincat, George
Dearden, Gianni Saretta and Steve Farrugio in the company’s dedicated filter lab.
The investment is all part of the way the company has ensured its filters
meet global OE standards for the expanding range of vehicles on Australian
roads.
The testing laboratory has the latest equipment to fully evaluate life,
efficiency and flow with the professional staff running tests to international
requirements.
This includes ultra-long range durability evaluation on the design and
manufacturing of every new Ryco filter.
The line-up of equipment in the GUD lab operates to SAE HS806, SAE
726 and SAE J905A for oil, air and fuel filter testing respectively on life,
efficiency and flow.
Individually the apparatus includes a twin head oil filter test rig, an air filter
test rig, a multi-purpose rig for evaluating anti-drain back and relief valve
testing, hot oil core collapse and burst testing, as well as pressure pulse testing.
“This excellent facility in Melbourne’s west is a very vital aspect of the way
we can guarantee all our Ryco filters are right up there with the best in the
world,” Ryco’s Marketing Manager, Ross Lamb, said.
“No one else in Australia has got anything like it. We have Australia's only
dedicated filtration laboratory.
“Australian conditions are truly unique in many ways and so only those
filters which have been designed for these conditions can completely cope long
term with our distances and dust.”
Add those very definite demands to our ability to meet such performances
to global standards, and Ryco filters really do have a realistic advantage in the
market.
And as our ranges have to grow to meet the demands of a growing
diversification of vehicles, our expanding technical staff and their facilities
ensure we’re well ahead of the competition.
Mr Lamb said it was “definitely a case of investing in the creation and
maintaining of filter excellence.”
For more information visit www.rycofilters.com.au or freecall
Ryco 1800 804 541.
AU T O M O T I V E A F T E R M A R K E T M AG A Z I N E D E C E M B E R 2 0 0 9 53

SPX FEATURE
GETTING THE JOB DONE BETTER
WITH SUPERIOR EQUIPMENT
Increase your customer’s air-conditioning performance and make more money
For years, R-134a air-conditioning gas was cheap and plentiful.
Today it’s a different story – refrigerant is much more expensive and
not always available. The Robinair
34988 & 34788 recover up to 20
percent more refrigerant, which
means it will cost less to recharge
the system. The best charge
accuracy that could be claimed
by older generation service
machines was +/- 28 grams, a
3 percent error on a 900g
system. That same charge
accuracy on a 395g system is
over twice the error (7
percent). Early R-134a systems
could still provide some cabin
cooling when they were 108 -
162 grams (12-18 percent) low on
refrigerant. However, new
designs are so efficient, they do
not have reserve refrigerant, and
charge accuracy is critical. The
34988 & 34788 will recharge the
vehicle to within 14 grams of the
charge capacity, and you will avoid
the dreaded ‘come back’. As the
workshop owner, you will realize more profits
per service by recovering more and re-charging fewer refrigerants.
Combining Simple Operation With Superior Accuracy:
Whether it’s the fully automatic 34988 or automatic 34788 these
machines will test,
recover, and
recharge R-134a
automotive AC
systems quickly
and accurately.
STANDARD FEATURES: 34788 &
34988
• Automatic Function without Panel Valves;
• Automatic Oil Drain;
• Oil Injection with Less than 1 percent Cross-
Contamination;
• Refrigerant and Oil Database for Australian
Vehicles;
• Vacuum Leak Test;
• Automatic Air Purge;
• Automatic Refrigerant Refill: Externally mounted
supply tank increases automatically replenishes
the refrigerant in an internal vessel greatly
increasing refrigerant storage and handling
capability;
• Vacuum Feature: Defaults to 15 mins,
programmable up to 99 mins;
• Refrigerant Charging from High, Low or Both
Sides;
• Refrigerant Management System: Displays
refrigerant use and monitors remaining filter
life.
ADDITIONAL FEATURES: 34988
• Optional Automatic Dye Injection;
• Automatic Oil measure & Injection;
• A/C System Flush; Flushes a vehicle’s A/C system
with refrigerant;
• Save & Print before and after service data;
• Indicator light and notification alarm
SAE RESEARCH PROGRAM
In June 2005, the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) started a research
program to reduce the emissions of R-134a. The program, called I-MAC
(Improved Mobile Air Conditioning), was tasked with cost effectively
improving R-134a systems while reducing refrigerant emissions. The I-
MAC members have pledged to design smaller systems with fewer leak
points and improve service equipment. As a result of this program, the
SAE recently approved tighter standards for automotive A/C recovery,
recycles and recharge equipment. The new standard, SAE J-2788, requires
that all service equipment manufactured after December 31, 2007, must
recover 95 percent of the refrigerant and recharge to within 14 grams.
54 AU T O M O T I V E A F T E R M A R K E T M AG A Z I N E D E C E M B E R 2 0 0 9 www.aaaa.com.au

SPX FEATURE
Setting a New Benchmark for Diagnostic Tools
In the world of diagnostics, time is
money, and in the world of Scan Tools is
not simply turning off the check engine
light, technicians need to know how to
stop the light coming back on.
The OTC Genisys Scan Tool from SPX
provides coverage for Australian, Asian,
European and American vehicles and can
be upgraded to USA derived Trucks, with
constant developments increase the detail
of systems coverage. It enables service
professionals to conduct a full diagnostic
check and determine repair paths
accurately and more quickly than
conventional Scan Tools. Powering this
innovative tool are revolutionary features:
Automated System Test (AST), checks all
vehicle sub systems, including engine, ABS,
airbags, body controls, instrument panel,
transmissions plus others.
Diagnostic Information, Repair Trac and
Code Assist Databases, provides effective
repair information to get the vehicle
repaired faster. A clear report can be
printed (USB or wireless) to inform the
customer. Technical diagnostic data will
constantly be added to support our local
market.
OTC Genisys is a complete diagnostic
tool, with its expansion slots allowing users
to easily upgrade to the 3688 Plug-In 4
Channel Lab Scope Module, with userfriendly
feature such as Automatic Setup,
Component Test Routines, Test terminal
Schematics and Reference Waveforms. The
unique Plug-In 5 Gas Analyser provides
technicians with yet another diagnostic
tool from one handset, with software
driven test & repair sequences, the 3780 5
Gas Analyser completes the workshops
diagnostic tooling needs.
OTC Genisys is manufactured in the USA
and supported in Australia with local
expertise in software development and
technical support.
Re-Defining Entry Level Wheel
Alignment
The new A860 developed and
manufactured by SPX, provides a low cost
and time efficient wheel alignment tool to
independent workshops, franchised dealers
and tyre shops. The high standards of
accuracy combined with user-friendly
software and class leading inclusions
make the OTC A860 the ideal tool for
any workshop.
Speed and consistency are the keys
to success in wheel
alignment, so the OTC
A860 is packaged as
standard with Quick
Mounting Wheel
Clamps, removing the
time and hassle of
jacking the vehicle and
performing run-out
compensation. Within
a few minutes
workshops can view all
essential alignment
angles, diagnose an alignment error and provide the customer with
a printed report. Adjustments are aided by “jack & hold” and
adjustment diagrams.
The OTCA860 is fully wire-less and has an eight-hour working time
from its lithium rechargeable batteries. The OTC A860 is supported
with an Australian vehicles specifications database.
For more inforamtion call SPX Australia on 03 9544 6222
AU T O M O T I V E A F T E R M A R K E T M AG A Z I N E D E C E M B E R 2 0 0 9 55

AIR CONDITIONING
Automotive recovery is simple with JAVAC
How can the average workshop easily recover, recycle and re-use refrigerant gas confidently? There are several
machines on the market that can do all of these tasks. JAVAC has a range of tools to suit all budgets and workshops,
from the one-man service van to the commercial workshop environment.
The Konfort automotive air conditioning
charging station is a fully automatic unit,
which includes the refrigerant charging
data and compressor oil specifications for
most of today’s vehicles. Also with the
ability to log refrigerant recovered and
vehicles charged; a built in printer gives
details of all data processing.
JAVAC also offer the RCS, a manual
For those just setting up, or
wanting to fit out additional
vehicles, JAVAC has the AA
starter pack, including
all the essential tools to
begin a job.
automotive charging trolley fitted with a
two-stage vacuum pump, four-valve
manifold and 80kg capacity scales with 10
gram increments, this unit is definitely
value for money.
For those who want something light
weight and portable, JAVAC’s PCS-2 covers
all the bases. Incorporating 3 essential
tools in one hand held unit, it comprises of
detachable digital scales, vacuum pump
and four-valve manifold.
For those just setting up, or wanting to
fit out additional vehicles, JAVAC has the
AA starter pack, including all the essential
tools to begin a job. Comprising of a hand
held leak detector, portable recovery unit
and RCS trolley, this package makes your
job easy.
Another important factor for the
automotive technician is keeping his tools
of the trade maintained and ready for work
at all times. JAVAC offer a compliance
check where they can make sure these tools
comply to the stringent guidelines put in
place by the governing regulatory body.
Above and beyond compliance testing,
JAVAC also offer regular servicing and
repair of these tools, with the ability to
service other brands as well as their own.
Contact JAVAC on 1300 786 771 to discuss
your refrigerant recovery needs.
AU T O M O T I V E A F T E R M A R K E T M AG A Z I N E D E C E M B E R 2 0 0 9 57

AIR CONDITIONING
Economical remedy beats irritating
air-conditioning leaks
With diminishing used vehicle prices these days many owners are reluctant to spend too much on fixing
those sneaky leaks in air conditioning systems that can sap their performance and be releasing
environmentally damaging refrigerants into the atmosphere.
But as vehicles age, even little holes in
evaporators, condensers and systems'
flexible tubing – leaks under 300 microns
– will slowly drain the effectiveness of car,
truck, van, 4wd and caravan installations
and leave owners gasping for relief on
warmer days.
But now these irritating refrigerant
losses can be permanently sealed for little
more than a couple of hundred dollars
using a new product that has been
extensively proven in the world's major
automotive market, North America.
Super Seal Pro liquid formulation works
by sealing refrigerant leaks from the inside
– reacting with the moisture in ambient air
after being carried in solution with oil and
refrigerant to the point where the leaks exit.
When the sealant comes in contact with
the droplets of moisture created by
escaping refrigerant, it forms a permanent
low tensile crystalline structure that
creates a barrier to prevent further losses.
In simple terms, it repairs a leak in a
similar way as to how your body stops the
bleeding of a cut.
Super Seal Pro – distributed in Australia
and New Zealand by GO Distribution – is
the latest sealant technology from the
Cliplight Manufacturing Co, which has
served the automotive and industrial
markets of North America for more than 25
years and has more than a million
applications of Super Seal products to its
credit.
It is designed for use with systems
using flexible hose type connections or
with open drive compressors. These
include systems used in cars, trucks,
buses, vans, 4wds, caravans, boats,
trailers, farm machinery and refrigerated
vehicles.
Super Seal Pro permanently seals leaks
in condensers, evaporators, accumulators,
compressors, gaskets, o-rings, metal lines
and rubber hoses. The sealant can be
professionally installed in approximately
one hour by a certified automotive air
conditioning technician. The products are
available through most reputable
wholesalers.
For more inforamtion call 02 6026 4886,
or visit www.cliplight.com
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AIR CONDITIONING
Jeeeparts for all of your
Jeep air-conditioning parts
In their capacity as the largest Jeep, Chrysler and Dodge
branded vehicle dismantler and parts re-marketers in the
southern hemisphere, Jeeepart Recyclers buying staff
members are constantly travelling back and forth from the
United States seeking product.
The great news
for the airconditioning
industry is the huge
range of new air
compressors that
have just arrived in
Australia and
another container
expected soon. Of
course this stock
only supplements
the huge range
already derived from
late model salvage
sourced within
Australia.
Jeeepart Recyclers was established at Hervey Bay Queensland in
1997 when Lawrie and Joy Beacham moved there from Victoria.
Having been in the automotive recycling industry since the early
'70s they decided to specialise in parts for Jeep Vehicles, concentrating
mainly on the Australian sold models from 1994 onwards.
Jeeepart now supplies recycled, new, genuine and after-market
parts, panels and accessories for most models ranging from the '50s
through to today's current model Cherokee, Wrangler, Rubicon,
Commander, Compass, and Grand.
It recently expanded its parts range to include the other Chrysler and
Dodge brand products now sold in Australia, namely the Chrysler
Voyager and Neon, PT Cruiser, 300C, Sebring, Crossfire along with the
Dodge Nitro, Caliber, Ram and Viper and Mopar performance parts.
It has incorporated as many environmentally friendly systems as
possible into its purpose-built premises, including a comprehensive
computer stock control and accounting system for fast and efficient
service.
The firm was one of the first to achieve the top five star status in
the Auto Parts Recyclers Association of Australia National Accreditation
program, described as the most important advance ever by the auto
recycling industry in Australia.
The rating system grades auto recycling firms on the quality and
correct description of used or after-market parts, business and staff
presentation, staff training, complaint handling, warranty and refund
policies, condition of sale, delivery, safety requirements and
environmental aspects.
Jeeepart Recyclers aim is to supply the correct and accurately
described quality parts the first time and our experienced sales people
are committed to satisfying your requests in the shortest time possible.
For more information call 07 4128 9422 or visit www.j-p-r.com
AU T O M O T I V E A F T E R M A R K E T M AG A Z I N E D E C E M B E R 2 0 0 9 59

AIR CONDITIONING
Just a little too much friction?
Chances are that over the past five years you would have been one of the millions of people worldwide that have
heard of, and possibly used, the friction modifying X-1R Engine Treatment.
This product was originally developed by NASA for the Space
Shuttle program and to this day is still being used by them to
ensure that every time there is a launch of the Space Shuttle it
goes without a hitch.
It is a fact that throughout the world major automotive
manufacturers, mining and drilling companies, shipping
companies, trucking companies and bus fleets have been using X-
1R to reduce fuel consumption and
exhaust emissions for more than
ten years now. The technology in X-1R has been scientifically
proven to modify the molecular structure of the metal in your engine
smoothing out the microscopic imperfections by forming an electrochemical
bond that effectively permeates metal. This reduces the
friction in your engine, which in turn reduces your fuel
consumption.
This same technology is now available for use in car airconditioning
systems. It is claimed that by adding the new product
to your air-con system X-1R will smooth out the metal surfaces in
the system and thus reduce the
workload of your compressor. This
means that your compressor will last
longer, work more efficiently and operate
quieter. In recent tests it is reported that
after the use of X-1R Air Conditioner
Treatment not only did the compressor
run more smoothly but the speed at
which the vehicle cabin cooled down
was dramatically increased.
For more information call 03 9555 9277
or visit www.burgdesign.com.au
60 AU T O M O T I V E A F T E R M A R K E T M AG A Z I N E D E C E M B E R 2 0 0 9 www.aaaa.com.au

HR
TAX ON LEAVE ENTITLEMENTS
UPON TERMINATION
Employers are often confused about how to tax leave entitlements, such as annual
leave and long service leave on termination. This article clarifies how to tax such
entitlements.
David Wilkinson
AAAA Industrial, Relations Manager
Phone 1300 735 306 Fax 02 9993 9709
Email hr@aaaa.com.au
CALCULATION METHOD
• Calculate the gross amount of leave
entitlements owing to the employee
• Divide the gross amount owing by 52
• Add the amount to the normal weekly
amount
• Find tax on the new amount
• Find tax on regular weekly amount
• Find difference in tax amount
• Multiply difference by 52: this is the
amount of tax
CASE STUDY:
Employee earns gross per week - $700
(hourly is $18.42)
Tax (with leave loading) - $99
Net payment weekly - $601
On termination, the employee has
121.69 hours worth of annual leave.
For this particular employee, leave
loading is not be payable upon
termination.
121.69 x $18.42 = 2241.53
$2241.53 / 52 = 43.11
$43.11 + $700 = 743.11
New weekly tax rate on $743.11 = 113
$113 - $99 = $14
$14 x 52 = $728
Therefore
Gross termination payment = $2241.53
Tax on termination payment = $728
Net termination payment =$1513.78
TAX ON REDUNDANCY PAYMENTS
Genuine Redundancy Payments are tax
free up to a limit ($7350 plus $3676 for
each completed year of service to which
the payment relates - for 2008/2009,
indexed annually).
A genuine redundancy payment is one
“received by an employee who is
dismissed from employment because the
employee’s position is genuinely
redundant”. There are four necessary
components to a genuine redundancy.
These include:
1. The payment being tested must be
received in consequence of an
employee’s termination.
2. The termination must involve the
employee being dismissed from
employment.
3. The dismissal must be caused by the
redundancy of the employee’s position.
4. The redundancy payment must be
made genuinely because of a
redundancy.
The dismissal must be
caused by the redundancy
of the employee’s position
The genuine redundancy payment is
the amount that exceeds the amount that
could reasonably be expected to be
received had the employee voluntarily
terminated his or her employment (for
example, if the employee resigned, and
would be entitled to $3000, this would
not be included in the calculation of the
tax free amount).
OTHER CONDITIONS THAT
MUST BE SATISFIED
• the employee must be less than 65 at
the date of dismissal (or a lower age if
their retirement is to be at a lower age)
• the termination is not at the end of a
fixed period of employment
• if the employer and employee are not
dealing with each other at arm’s length
(e.g. they are related to each other), the
payment is not greater than the amount
that could reasonably be expected to
have been paid if they had been
dealing with each other at arm’s length
• there is no arrangement between the
employer and employee for the
dismissed employee to be re-employed
after the termination — this condition
would not prevent the former employee
being engaged as an independent
contractor
• The payment is not in lieu of
superannuation benefits.
CASE STUDY
John’s position becomes redundant
when the customer service division of his
employer is outsourced. John is aged 51
and has worked for his employer for 18
years and five months. The $90,000
redundancy payment that he is paid on
May 1, 2009 satisfies the conditions set
out.
The redundancy payment is taxed as
follows.
1. No part of the $90,000 is taxed under
other rules. Although John may receive
a payment for unused leave or in lieu
of notice, for example, as long as this is
a separate payment it is taxed under its
own rules and does not need to be
separated from the redundancy
payment.
2. The tax free amount of the redundancy
payment is:
$7350 + $66,168 ($3676 x 18 years)
= $73,518
The $16,482 in excess of the tax free
amount ($90,000 – $73,518) is taxed as
an employment termination payment.
Because John is aged 51 at the time of
payment, the $73,518 is included in his
assessable income and taxed at his
ordinary tax rates but with a maximum rate
of 31.5 percent.
DO YOU HAVE A QUESTION YOU REALLY WANT TO ASK?
For more information and assistance phone: AAAA HR Hotline on 1300 735 306 or email hr@aaaa.com.au
The material contained in this publication is general comment and is not intended as advice on any particular matter. No reader should act or fail to act on the basis of any
material contained herein. The material contained in this publication should not be relied on as a substitute for legal or professional advice on any particular matter. Wentworth
Human Resources Pty Limited (the publishers), the editor and the authors expressly disclaim all and any liability to any persons whatsoever in respect of anything done or omitted
to be done by any such person in reliance whether in whole or in part upon any of the contents of this publication. Without limiting the generality of this disclaimer, no author or
editor shall have any responsibility for any other author or editor. © Wentworth Human Resources Pty Ltd 2009
Before acting on any of the information in the above article,
please contact David or any of the friendly team at the AAAA
HR Advisory Service on phone: 1300 735 306, fax: 02 9993
9709, or email: hr@aaaa.com.au The AAAA HR Advisory
Service is available from 8:30 am – 5:00 pm, Monday to
Friday. The answer could be just a phone call away!
AU T O M O T I V E A F T E R M A R K E T M AG A Z I N E D E C E M B E R 2 0 0 9 61

RETAIL
THE ABS FORMULA IS SUCCEEDING IN SYDNEY
John Avgoustakis and George Bakamis have got every reason to smile – their ABS workshop is celebrating its
16th birthday on the Princes Highway in Kirrawee.
Its long-term success proves how well
ABS works in the Sydney suburbs.
“The reason this business does so well
is the way the ABS formula really performs,
especially in the ultra-competitive Sydney
market,” Rob Higgs of ABS said.
“Our point of advantage is the way we’ve
developed a flexible formula which allows
our franchisees to tailor the business to suit
both their skills and the exact market
opportunities. The sites can be parts or
trade parts, or a traditional brake and
undercar operation, or any combination.
“We’ve got the skills, market knowledge
and track record to make it happen.
“And whatever is decided on – or finetuned
into – gets the full support of the ABS
network. This means the franchise will work
at finding the customers, running the
operation and building the business.
“Sydney is a very important market for
us at ABS and our research shows there are
many existing and emerging opportunities.
We’re always open to approaches from both
present operators who want to develop their
sites as well as prospective franchisees
looking for a solid business opportunity,” Mr
Higgs said.
ABS Kirrawee is at 545 Princes and is
open six days a week: Monday to Friday 8
to 5.30pm and Saturday 8 to 12.
Mr Higgs can be contacted on
03 8369 1300.
Franchisees Peter and Karen Leyshon were delighted with the grand
opening which coincided with Bathurst weekend, saying that their
special guests, fun activities, great giveaways and grand opening
discounts all contributed towards creating a fun atmosphere for
everyone.
"Pauly and Kiwi Kev were a great hit with our new customers who
took heaps of photos and asked them to sign all kinds of things,
including a car,” Peter said.
"We were also lucky to have Autobarn's very own Grid Girls attend
the opening, especially as it was Bathurst weekend," he added.
"They helped out with customer entry forms for our grand opening
prize, a 42" plasma and home entertainment system, and signed up
heaps of new Autoclub members too"
Visitors were also able to experience V8 supercar racing in the V8
Supercar simulators and win more great prizes.
John Avgoustakis and George Bakamis –
succeeding in Sydney.
AUTOBARN WARNERS BAY OPENING ATTRACTS HUGE CROWDS
Fat Pizza's Pauly and Kiwi Kev helped attract massive crowds to the opening of Autobarn's newest store in the
Warners Bay Homemaker Centre early in October.
Peter Leyshon (centre) with Kiwi Kev (left), Pauly (right) and the Autobarn Grid Girls.
"Not only was it a great day for our customers but it was an exciting
time for our new Autobarn team," said Karen.
According to Karen, she and Peter have assembled an experienced
team with a broad range of expertise across automotive parts and
accessories.
"We are committed to providing an extremely high level of customer
service while also becoming the number one shop for auto accessories
in Warners Bay," added Karen.
You'll find Peter and Karen at the new Warners Bay Homemaker
Centre, 240 - 260 Hillsborough Road Warners Bay.
For more information you can call them on (02) 4953 7461.
Autobarn is always seeking enthusiastic people to join its team of
franchisees and there are several opportunities in both metro and
regional NSW.
Geoff Drain of Warners Bay, winner of the 42" plasma and home entertainment system.
For more information visit www.autobarn.com.au or call Steven
Woodward on 1300 550 155.
62 AU T O M O T I V E A F T E R M A R K E T M AG A Z I N E D E C E M B E R 2 0 0 9 www.aaaa.com.au