am magazine shell - Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association

REGULAR DEPARTMENTS 

AAAA Report..............................4 

Calendar & New Members ...........5 

News.........................................6 

HR Matters ..............................15 

SPECIAL FEATURE 

Products..................................18 

PRTC ......................................90 

4WD .......................................92 

Retail......................................94 

Show Review ...................................................................................28 

A complete wrap-up from the Australian Automotive Aftermarket Expo 

in Sydney, including reports on the AAAA Award winners. 

FEATURES 

Crompton and no bull.......................................................................16 

Pedders’ new award-winning TV commercials 

Preparing workshops for the future ....................................................26 

Bosch has you covered 

Breathe easy ...................................................................................54 

From backyard to successful business 

Making money from replacement parts...............................................56 

Exploring what’s new in a lucrative market 

Taking control..................................................................................64 

Steering and Suspension sector featured 

Raising capital.................................................................................80 

Purchasing new equipment for the workshop 

Burnout! .........................................................................................88 

The full report from the Easternats 

ABOUT THE COVER 

Pedders Suspension – Australia’s number 

one shock absorber, steering and suspension 

specialist – dominated the recent Australian 

Automotive Aftermarket Expo. 

More details found on page 36. 

16 

28 

All material appearing in Australian Automotive Aftermarket magazine is copyright. Reproduction in whole or in part is strictly forbidden without prior written consent. 

Contribution: Freelance contribution and submissions are welcomed by this magazine. No responsibility is accepted for unsolicited manuscripts, photographs and 

transparencies. The opinions expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the AAAA. All statements made, although based on information believed to be 

reliable and accurate, cannot be guaranteed and no fault or liability can be accepted for error or omission. The publisher reserves the right to omit or alter any 

advertisement and the advertiser agrees to indemnify the publisher for all damages or liabilities arising from the published material. 

64 

88

AAAA REPORT 

MAY 2009 

Peter Hein 

President 

Stuart Charity 

Executive Director 

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 


execdir@aaaa.com.au 

2009 Auto Aftermarket and Collision Repair Expo 

The Auto Aftermarket Expo and Collision Repair 

Expo held at the Sydney Exhibition Centre from April 

2-4 received a strong endorsement from the 

aftermarket, mechanical and crash repair sectors, 

with 8144 visitors exploring the 370 exhibitor 

displays. The combined Expos covered 20,000 

square metres of floor space with high quality 

exhibits showcasing Australian and international 

products and services. 

A highlight of the Expo was the significant effort 

exhibitors put into their stands with 70 per cent 

custom designed. All four full halls of the Sydney 

Exhibition Centre looked fantastic and exhibitors 

should be congratulated for their determination to 

defy the economy and showcase the strength of the 

Australian auto aftermarket. 

The AAAA Awards to Industry and Trade Show 

awards presented at a breakfast and gala banquet 

were another highlight. Nearly 750 guests attended 

At the AAAA Awards to Industry Banquet in 

Sydney on April 2, we launched a major AAAA led 

consumer advocacy initiative. Titled "Choice of 

Repairer", this campaign is the culmination of 12 

months planning by a steering committee of AAAA 

member companies and will form the cornerstone 

of our overall Government relations strategy moving 

forward. 

The aim of the Choice of Repairer campaign is 

to protect choice and competition in the vehicle 

repair, servicing, replacement parts and accessories 

sector by eliminating any technical or legal barriers 

that impact on the Australian consumers' right to 

have their vehicle serviced, maintained and repaired 

at competitive prices in the workshop of their 

choice. 

The campaign will also address the growing 

practice by dealers of signing customers to so-called 

'extended' warranties, which have restrictive 

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 

these two events, which recognised outstanding 

contributions to the industry by individuals and 

companies. I would like to take this opportunity to 

congratulate all award finalists and winners. We 

would also like to acknowledge the outstanding 

contribution to our industry by the following 

individuals: 

• Guy Nicholls – winner of the 2009 Kim Aunger 

Young Achiever Award; 

• Ron Pedder – winner of the 2009 AAAA 

Outstanding Service to Industry Award; 

• George Kallinikos and David Wright – inductees 

into the AAAA Hall of Fame. 

Further information on the Expo and all award 

winners is included in this edition of the Australian 

Automotive Aftermarket Magazine. 

Planning is already well advanced for the next 

Expo, which will be held from 12-14 May 2011 at 

the Melbourne Exhibition Centre. 

Choice of Repairer Campaign Launched 

provisions on the choice of repairer and parts used, 

and tie customers to long-term service schedules 

with the dealer. Our contention is that many of these 

contracts provide little benefit additional to the 

consumer's basic statutory rights. 

Further information on this initiative 

can be viewed on the campaign website: 

www.choiceofrepairer.com.au 

We are now seeking support from the industry 

and key consumer groups with an interest in 

achieving a fair and competitive regulatory 

environment that recognises vehicle owners' right to 

their choice of repairer and parts used. Following 

this process, we will launch a major awareness 

campaign to ensure that these issues are brought to 

the attention of the industry, its regulators and 

consumers. 

We will keep you regularly updated via this 

column on the progress of the campaign. 

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 AUTOMO TIVE AFTERMARKET MAGAZINE MAY 2009 www.aaaa.com.au

AAAA 

4WD1 Pty Ltd 

23/44 Carrington Road 

CASTLE HILL NSW 2154 

Ph: 02 9899 3989 Fax: 02 9680 3441 

All Terrain 4x4 

6/192 Chesterville Road 

MOORABBIN VIC 3189 

Ph: 03 9532 5558 Fax: 03 9532 5446 

Can Do Automotive 

145 Main Street 

LILYDALE VIC 3140 

Ph: 03 9739 5000 

Care Marketing 

35 Glenvale Crescent 

MULGRAVE VIC 3170 

Ph: 03 9545 1892 Fax: 03 9545 1897 

Carlec 

197a Semaphore Road 

EXETER SA 5019 

Ph: 08 8449 8400 Fax: 08 8449 8439 

Carservice.com.au 

547 Blackburn Road 

MT WAVERLEY VIC 3174 

Ph: 03 9535 2222 Fax: 03 9562 8143 

Diver Consolidated Industries 

45 Trawalla Ave 

THOMASTOWN VIC 3074 

Ph: 03 9357 2511 Fax: 03 9359 2191 

E.F.I Carware Components 

PO Box 8566 

HEATHERTON VIC 3202 

Eagle SMF Distributors 

66 Orange Grove Road 

LIVERPOOL NSW 2170 

Engine & Transmission Parts 

72 Killara Road 

CAMPBELLFIELD VIC 3061 

Ph: 03 9357 0854 Fax: 03 9357 0845 

Australian Automotive 

Aftermarket Magazine 

is a member of the 

Circulations Audit Board. 

PUBLISHER – 

Stuart Charity, 


Australian Automotive 

Aftermarket Association 

NEW MEMBERS 

Fluid Drive Technologies P/L 

50 Nanson Street 

WEMBLEY WA 6014 

Garware Polyester Ltd 

Garware House, Western Express Hwy 

VILE PARLE (EAST), MUMBAI 400-057 India 

Ph: +91 22 6698 8177 

Harrop Engineering 

96 Bell Street 

PRESTON VIC 3072 

Ph: 03 9474 0900 Fax: 03 9474 0999 

Master Mobile Mechanics 

42 Kernot Crescent 

NOBLE PARK VIC 3174 

1300 760 818 

MoTeC Pty Ltd 

MoTeC Research Centre, 

121 Merrindale Drive 

CROYDON SOUTH VIC 3136 

Ph: 03 9761 5050 Fax: 03 9761 5051 

N.L. & Z. Import Co 

17 Mills Street 

CHELTENHAM NORTH VIC 3192 

Ph: 03 9583 9777 Fax: 03 9583 9501 

National Freight Management 

Unit 17, 735-741 Boronia Road 

WANTIRNA VIC 3152 

Ph: 03 9800 1444 Fax: 03 9800 1199 

NAVTEQ 

Level 2, 577-579 Church Street 

RICHMOND VIC 3121 

Ph: 03 9420 5935 Fax: 03 9420 5901 

Optibelt Australia Pty Ltd 

114-118 Rodeo Drive 

DANDENONG VIC 3175 

Pedders Suspension South Melbourne 

131 Market Street 

SOUTH MELBOURNE VIC 3205 

Ph: 03 9699 4630 

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 

EDITORIAL – 

Allan Edwards, 

Pole Position Productions 

Tel 61 3 9331 2608 

ADVERTISING MANAGER – 

Janene Champion, 

Champion Ads 

Tel 61 3 5862 3090 

PJL Diesel Electric 

1 Granite Place 

WELSHPOOL WA 6106 

Ph: 08 9258 7555 Fax: 08 9258 7577 

Precision International Pty Ltd 

591 Blackburn Road 

NOTTING HILL VIC 3168 

Ph: 03 9545 0788 Fax: 03 9561 9500 

Renniks Publications 

Unit 3, 37-39 Green Street 

BANKSMEADOW NSW 2019 

Sodablast 

17/8 Hopper Ave 

ORMEAU QLD 4208 

Ph: 07 5540 7289 Fax: 07 5540 7905 

Superstop Brake & Clutch 

727-729 Whitehorse Road 

MONT ALBERT VIC 3127 

Ph: 03 9890 1924 Fax: 03 9890 5502 

SXD Performance Parts 

18-20 George Street 

GRANVILLE NSW 2142 

Ph: 02 9897 1966 Fax: 02 9897 3473 

Sydney Wide Europeon Autos 

150 Elderidge Rd (Cnr Edgar St) 

CONDELL PARK NSW 2200 

Ph: 02 9708 4848 Fax: 02 9708 4088 

Total Auto Parts 

5-7, Unit 1 Ween Road 

POORAKA SA 5095 

Ph: 08 8359 6777 Fax: 08 9359 5055 

Ultra Tune Unley 

110A Unley Road 

UNLEY SA 5061 

Ph: 08 8271 5155 Fax: 08 8271 5778 

Universal Auto Accessory 

7/109-111 President Ave 

CARINGBAH NSW 2229 

PRODUCTION & DESIGN – 

Brigid Fraser, 

Possprint 

Tel 61 3 9505 0121 

CALENDAR 

2009 

Automechanika Middle East 2009 

Dubai International Convention 

& Exhibition Centre 

Dubai, UAE 

May 31st – June 2nd 2009 

www.automechanika.messefrankfurt.com 

SEMA Show 

Las Vegas Convention Center 

Nevada, USA 

3-6 November, 2009 

www.semashow.com 

AAPEX Show 

Automotive Aftermarket Products Expo 

Sands Expo Center 

Las Vegas, Nevada 

3-5 November, 2009 

www.aapexshow.com 

APRA BIG R show 

Riviera Hotel and Casino, 

Las Vegas, Nevada 

October 31 - November 2, 2009 

www.bigrshow.com 

Automechanika Shanghai 

Shanghai New International Expo 

Center, Pudong, Shanghai, China 

9-11 December 2009 


Performance Racing 

Industry Trade Show 

Orange County Convention Center 

Orlando, Florida, USA 

10-12 December 2009 

www.performanceracing.com 

2010 

Automechanika Frankfurt 2010 

Frankfurt, Germany 

14-19 September 2010 


2011 

Australian Auto Aftermarket Expo 

Melbourne Exhibition Centre 

Melbourne, Australia 

12-14 May 2011 

www.aftermartketexpo.com.au 

Collision Repair Expo 

Melbourne Exhibition Centre 

Melbourne, Australia 

12-14 May 2011 

www.collisionrepair.com.au 

AUTOMO TIVE AFTERMARKET MAG A ZINE MAY 2009 5

NEWS 

YOUR CAR, YOUR CHOICE 

On behalf of Australia's independent aftermarket, the Australian Automotive 

Aftermarket Association (AAAA) is launching a campaign to promote 

consumer choice and fair competition in the automotive parts, 

accessories, repair and service industry. 

Vehicles are becoming increasingly 

complex, due to the growing use of hi-tech 

materials and electronics to control more 

systems, including drivetrain, safety 

equipment, and comfort and convenience 

functions. The challenge for independent 

aftermarket workshops is to keep up to date 

with the information, technology and tools 

required to repair modern vehicles. 

In the meantime, Australia's car company 

dealer service centres have automatic access 

to data and equipment. There is no clear 

requirement for vehicle manufacturers and 

importers operating in Australia to make 

technical repair and diagnostic information 

available to independent aftermarket 

repairers. 

AAAA Executive Director Stuart Charity 

said that most independent aftermarket 

businesses find that technical information is 

difficult to access. 

"In Australia, we have no regulated process 

to ensure this vital information is 

disseminated. This means independent parts 

and accessories suppliers, service, 

mechanical and collision repair workshops in 

Australia must rely on the goodwill of vehicle 

manufacturers to get the information or 

equipment," he said. 

"At present, some vehicle manufacturers 

make it easy for independent aftermarket 

businesses to access vital technical manuals, 

update bulletins, software patches and 

equipment. Many do not make it easy. So the 

technology 'playing field' is not level and in 

the future customers will have less choice 

about who can do their repairs and what parts 

are used. This issue is especially relevant in 

regional centres and when vehicles age past 

their statutory warranty period. 

"The aim of the Choice of Repairer 

campaign is to protect choice and 

competition in vehicle repair, servicing and 

replacement parts sectors by eliminating any 

technical or legal barriers that impact on the 

Australian consumers' rights to have their 

vehicle serviced, maintained and repaired in 

a timely manner, at competitive prices in the 

workshop of their choice," Mr Charity said. 

International experience 

In 2002, the European Commission 

introduced the Automotive Block Exemption 

Regulation covering distribution and servicing 

agreements for motor vehicles. This regulation 

preserves the motorists' rights to have their 

vehicle serviced or repaired at the workshop of 

their choice and at prices determined by open 

competition. The European Union aftermarket 

association is currently lobbying the European 

Commission to strengthen this protection. 

In North America, the Automotive 

Aftermarket Industry Association is 

campaigning to win Congressional support for 

a 'motor vehicle owners' right to repair act' to 

prevent manufacturers from unfairly 

restricting access to the information and tools 

required to diagnose, repair, re-program or 

install automotive replacement parts. The act 

would not affect dealers' rights to service and 

does not force breaches of intellectual 

property. 

At present, some vehicle 

manufacturers make it easy 

for independent aftermarket 

businesses to access vital 

technical manuals, update 

bulletins, software patches 

and equipment. Many do not 

make it easy. 

Vehicle safety 

Australia's independent aftermarket 

presently has no promise of such open access 

to the vital information required to continue 

providing customers with safe, 

environmentally sound, cost effective repair 

services for today's vehicles. 

"The AAAA Choice of Repairer initiative 

will ensure that the independent aftermarket 

can continue to supply the parts and 

accessories, follow all procedures and use all 

systems required to return vehicles to 

customers in a safe, environmentally correct 

condition," Mr Charity said. 

"The campaign will also address the 

growing practice by dealers of signing 

customers to so-called 'extended' warranties, 

which have restrictive provisions on the 

choice of repairer and parts used, and tie 

customers to long term service schedules with 

the dealer. Our contention is that many of 

these contracts provide little benefit 

additional to the consumer's basic statutory 

rights. 

"The mission of the Australian automotive 

industry is not just to provide customers with 

new vehicles. It is estimated that over a 10 

year period, a vehicle will require service and 

repairs estimated to equal one and a half 

times the original purchase price. Each year, 

Australia's 15 million vehicle owners spend 

about $8 billion on parts and services. 

Ensuring that owners can access a 

competitive price for their vehicle parts and 

services can make the difference between 

affordable and unaffordable motoring. 

"Australia now has 52 vehicle brands 

offering 320 models in its market. That 

generates a lot of information and equipment 

to be kept up to date by the nation's 

independent aftermarket repairers and the 

replacement parts sector. And if it is difficult 

for the aftermarket now, it will be even more 

difficult in future as the high technology 

content of every vehicle increases to promote 

safety, fuel economy, performance and 

comfort. The aftermarket has a huge 

responsibility in maintaining the national 

vehicle fleet. 

"This AAAA Choice of Repairer initiative 

will fight for fair competition in the 

accessories and replacement parts sector, and 

for the independent repairers' right to gain 

access to the technical and diagnostic 

information and the equipment required, to 

correctly service all vehicles sold in 

Australia,” Mr Charity said. 

"We are now seeking support from industry 

and consumer groups with an interest in 

achieving a fair and competitive regulatory 

environment that recognises vehicle owners 

right to their choice of repairer. Following this 

process, we will launch a major awareness 

campaign to ensure that these issues are 

brought to the attention of the industry, its 

regulators and consumers.” 

Mr Charity encouraged interested industry 

members to visit www.choiceofrepairer.com.au 

to learn about the initiative, to register for 

campaign updates, and to download 

educational material for customers. 


NEWS 

LED WINS HISTORIC TEST CASE 

Australia's automotive industry has won an historic court ruling banning the sale in Australia of 

imported copies of their Australian-designed parts and products. 

The Federal Court of Australia decision is 

set to have a major impact on the multibillion 

dollar automotive sector as news of the 

result filters through the industry and 

manufacturing generally. 

After two years' research, Melbourne 

businessman Tony Ottobre developed a new 

way of making LED rear lights for trucks and 

trailers that improved quality and halved the 

cost. In June 2004 he registered his designs 

under the Federal Parliament's Designs Act 

2003. His lights were an instant hit with 

truck and trailer manufacturers and his sales 

jumped from $100,000 in 2003 to more 

than $12 million last year. His total sales for 

the five-year period topped $34 million. 

His breakthrough design profoundly 

influenced the automotive LED (light 

emitting diode) industry in Australia. His 

Thomastown firm, LED Technologies, was the 

first in Australia to introduce a five-year 

warranty, and more recently a lifetime 

warranty, and derive its income solely from 

LED products. 

In November 2006 a China-made copy of 

Mr Ottobre's design appeared on the 

Australian market, selling for about 20 

percent less than Mr Ottobre's products. The 

copy had the potential to cost Mr Ottobre 

millions of dollars in lost sales and 

significantly damage the excellent reputation 

of his business and its products. In what was 

a test case, Mr Ottobre was the first 

businessman in Australia's multi-billion 

dollar automotive industry to use the Designs 

Act 2003 to sue an importer and distributors 

for copying his product and selling it in 

Australia. 

After a two-year battle in the Federal 

Court of Australia and $900,000 in legal 

Leading Lean Manufacturing Consultant, TXM has significant experience in working with 

manufacturers of Automotive Aftermarket products. 

TXM ran the AAAA Introduction to Lean Enterprise workshop last 

year. According to TXM Principal, Tim Mclean, "automotive aftermarket 

manufacturing is a vibrant industry sector with a high degree of 

innovation and some unique challenges due to the complexity of the 

supply chain. TXM is focused on helping companies address these 

challenges.” 

TXM was an exhibitor at the recent Austech 2009 in May at the 

Melbourne Exhibition Centre. 

fees, Mr Ottobre recently won a 

landmark decision for his business 

and all makers and sellers of 

Australian-designed goods. His win 

sets a precedent and - for the first 

time in Australian manufacturing 

history - protects Australiandesigned 

automotive parts and 

products from predatory copycat 

practices. 

"This has been going on for years, 

copies undermining the manufacture 

and sale of Australian-designed parts 

and products, costing Aussie firms hundreds 

of millions of dollars and thousands of jobs," 

Mr Ottobre said. 

This is a huge win not just 

for my business but for 

all makers and sellers of 

Aussie-designed goods. 

"Someone had to take a stand. I was 

determined to fight for my business. It's 

taken two years and nearly a million dollars 

but we're now protected. This is a huge win 

not just for my business but for all makers 

and sellers of Aussie-designed goods." 

The Designs Act 2003 includes the 

important new benchmark substantially 

similar. "Many people in the automotive 

industry are under the impression you can 

copy someone else's product so long as at 

least 10 per cent of it is different. This is not 

the case and has now been confirmed by this 

ruling." 

Justice Michelle Gordon said Ren 

International and distributors Olsen 

Industries, Advanced Automotive Australia 

and Elecspess infringed Mr Ottobre's 

registered Australian designs and 

contravened sections of the Trade Practices 

Act 1974 by manufacturing, importing and 

selling in Australia its copy, known as the 

Condor model. 

On February 24, 2009, Justice Gordon 

barred Ren International and the distributors 

from "directly or indirectly making, importing, 

selling or offering for sale" any automotive 

lamps that are "identical to or substantially 

similar in overall impression" to Mr Ottobre's 

registered Australian designs. She ordered 

Ren International and its distributors to pay 

LED Technologies $200,000 in damages by 

March 25, 2009, and awarded Mr Ottobre 

legal costs. 

Ren International's copy is being pulled 

from distributors' shelves across Australia. 

Many more imported copies of Australiandesigned 

parts and products are expected to 

come under scrutiny as news of the decision 

filters through Australia's automotive industry 

and manufacturing generally. 

AFTERMARKET INDUSTRY LEAN 

EXPERTS AT AUSTECH 

Visitors experienced case studies of TXM projects and a hands-on 

exhibit of some of the simple techniques used to improve operational 

performance. 

Visitors also had the chance to win one of five lean assessments and 

action plans valued at over $3000. 

For more information email info@txm.com.au or visit www.txm.com.au 

AUTOMO TIVE AFTERMARKET MAG AZINE MAY 2009 7

NEWS 

INTERNATIONAL 

NEWS 

AUTOMECHANIKA MALAYSIA A GREAT SUCCESS 

Buoyed by the success of the last show in 2007, the sixth 

edition of Automechanika Malaysia was held at the Kuala 

Lumpur Convention Centre from March 25–28, 2009. 

The event maintained the momentum and attracted 133 

exhibitors from 14 countries and regions; and 4521 visitors 

passed through the doors. 

The top five visitor countries and regions outside Malaysia 

were Singapore, China, Thailand, Korea and Egypt. 

The Malaysian Government understands the needs of 

having an automotive parts and aftermarket trade fair to boost 

the industry. 

Malaysia’s Deputy Minister of International Trade & 

Industry, YB Dato' Jacob Dungau Sagan officially opened 

Automechanika Malaysia. 

“I am happy to note that Messe Frankfurt Hong Kong 

proceeded with this event although the automobile industry is 

experiencing a bumpy ride,” he said. 

Running alongside the fair was a series of comprehensive 

programs for industry players to exchange information and 

update their market intelligence, including the Cater 

Workshop on Mass Customisation of Vehicles, which was 

aimed at sharing state-of-the-art knowledge. 

The three-day workshop welcomed many industry players. 

Speaker Dr Halimahtun M. Khalid, Executive Director of 

Damai Sciences Sdn Bhd, commented: “Automechanika 

Malaysia is the right kind of event for us to share the results 

and innovations from the project. In light of the current 

automotive industry environment, it is even more important 

for automotive enterprises to be more customer-centric and 

therefore to improve their business.” 

Co-located with the fair for the third time was the 

Federation of Automobile Workshop Owners’ Association of 

Malaysia (FAWOAM) Annual Convention which attracted over 

300 participants. 

President Mr Cho Chee Seng said: “Through participating 

in the convention and trade fair, we aim to educate and 

update our members with the latest technical developments 

and market and product knowledge. I am glad that our 

members are very satisfied and have shown great support to 

the event.” 

The Automechanika Academy featured many esteemed 

industry speakers, including: Ms Marsitah Wariss, Consultant 

of Frost & Sullivan Automotive & Transportation Practice, Asia 

Pacific; Mr Peter Lim, President of Malaysian Automotive 

Component Parts Manufacturers (MACPMA); and Mr Richard 

Pratt, CEO of I-CAR Australia. 

Automechanika Malaysia is one of 13 global Automechanika 

fairs. 

The next show will be held in March 2011. 

For more information, please visit 

www.automechanika.messefrankfurt.com or 

email autoasia@hongkong.messefrankfurt.com. 

20 GOOD YEARS IN 

SHEPPARTON 

Barry Cryer and David Morton-John have got good 

reason to look pleased – they have just celebrated 

their 20th anniversary working in Shepparton. 

Barry Cryer and David Morton-John. 

It was two decades ago the pair got together and opened the ABS 

workshop following them both having worked for over 10 years each in the 

auto trade. 

When they opened their ABS franchise they were the first to do so in 

Australia, and the ABS group now has nearly 50 sites. 

But they have come a long way from the first humble tin shed on the 

outskirts of town and a decade ago invested in an impressive central site and 

a top custom-designed workshop. 

“It’s been 20 very good years,” Mr Cryer said. 

“We have a great business, a great town and a great country lifestyle which 

is terrific for the kids, and only a couple of traffic lights. I wouldn’t swap it 

for the world. 

“Two decades after starting we now have the very latest in equipment to 

ensure our brake & clutch work is matched with a full range of servicing and 

repairs,” Mr Cryer said. 

ACS AWARDED ISO 

ACCREDITATION 

Australian Clutch Services claims that it has always been 

committed to building close partnerships with customers 

by helping them develop their market. 

“The ACS mission is to excel 

in quality and service, be 

innovative, efficient and globally 

competitive,” Tim Possingham, 

Marketing Manager for Australian 

Clutch Services, said. 

“As part of Australian Clutch 

Services’ never-ending drive to 

exceed customer expectations, 

ACS has recently been awarded 

ISO 9001: 2008 quality 

accreditation. 

"This quality system 

encompasses all aspects of our 

business, from warehouse 

operations to accounts and 

administration as well as 

product. We continue to pride 

ourselves as the market leaders 

in Australasia.” 

For more information call 

1800 CLUTCH or visit 

www.australianclutch.com.au 


NEWS 

EXIDE’S LOCAL INVESTMENT LEADS 

RECYCLING TECHNOLOGY 

Exide batteries made at the company’s Adelaide factory boast a recycling rate of over 90 percent – 

which is higher than most other industries throughout Australia. 

The Exide Technologies company has been 

proactively involved in the recycling of batteries 

long before it ever become branded with the 

current terms of eco-friendly, green washing or 

enviro-friendly. It has been done to maintain the 

value locked into the many materials built into 

batteries, which remain long after their use. 

The Exide manufacturing facility in 

Elizabeth, South Australia, has been using 

recycled polypropylene for battery cases and 

recycled lead for many years. This has become 

known and trademarked with the slogan “Black 

is Green” which describes the recycling of all 

colours of polypropylene battery cases into new 

black battery boxes. 

The process is part of the commitment to 

capture spent batteries from the market and 

subsequently crush and smelt the products to 

regain the polypropylene and lead. This 

happens at its company-owned smelter in 

Wellington, NZ to service Australia and NZ. 

Exide is the only battery company in Australia 

and NZ to own and operate such a smelter for 

the purposes of recycling lead acid batteries. 

There are two other smelters in Australia 

that accept old batteries and recycle the 

polypropylene and lead. So, along with the 

Exide facility, lead acid starting batteries 

(including those used in marine applications) 

are among the highest percentage of recycled 

goods to reach nearly all markets. 

This gives the industry-wide figure of over 

90 percent. Other goods of note include: glass 

bottles (26 percent), paper (45 percent), 

aluminium cans (55 percent) and tyres (26 

percent). 

The impressive figure of over 90 percent of 

batteries sold each year in Australia 

being captured for recycling is the 

statistic compiled by the battery 

industry body, the Australian 

Battery Industry Association (ABIA). 

The volume is over 60 tonnes of 

lead annually – which is prevented 

from being mined below the 

ground. 

But Exide is the only Australian 

battery manufacturer using recycled 

polypropylene to produce new cases 

with the current surplus of the 

recycled material reused in the 

plastics industry for other uses. 

All this is in addition to the 

emerging second tier of battery 

recycling as this industry can also be included 

in the current push of replacing internal 

combustion engines with battery powered 

electric to gain a smaller carbon footprint. While 

this overall move may be currently slow to gain 

pace in automotive applications, electric motors 

are increasingly used for steerage and the 

popular bass fishing. 

However, the current industry focus is all 

about electric vehicles (EV) where such 

technology is not new to the battery industry 

which has been supplying recyclable battery 

power for years in a variety of applications 

including forklifts, thereby creating a lower 

carbon emission for each user. 

During recent years, consumers have moved 

to the acceptance that batteries can be recycled 

and are therefore greener than other products 

they purchase for their car or boat. This has 

been the result of the public awareness 

Exide batteries are being produced at the company’s Australian 

factory with one of the highest recycling rates in any industry. 

campaigns by motoring organizations including 

the RACV, NRMA and RAA as well as the auto 

trade with the ABIA. 

While Exide Technologies has a 

demonstrated history of commitment to 

recycling in Australia, the same cannot be said 

for other battery suppliers who do not invest in 

the same infrastructure to capture and recycle 

spent batteries at the end of their life cycle. 

However, Exide will continue to work with the 

ABIA, government bodies and the battery 

reseller market to continually improve the 

reclaim rate to ensure batteries remain a 

recycling imperative and a green choice for 

consumers. 

As part of this, Exide batteries carry the 

recycle logo as do glass bottles, aluminium cans, 

plastic containers and many other products and 

more recently the "Don’t Bin It" logo to direct 

consumers to not place spent batteries in 

domestic garbage for responsible recycling. 

GET YOUR FREIGHT MOVING 

National Freight Management is keen to expand its services into the automotive aftermarket. 

National Freight Management is a freight 

broker covering a wide range of services by 

air, road and sea. 

It provides its customers with access to 

over 25 transport companies – taking away 

the hassle of sourcing transport companies, 

which is often time consuming. 

It can give clients a quote on the spot, or 

they can do it themselves with its easy to use 

online quoting system. 

It can organise pick-ups at a set daily 

time or as required. 

National Freight Management 

immediately follows up on any freight or 

billing enquiries. 

It provides clients with one descriptive 

freight invoice, even though the company 

provides a wide range of freight services 

using many freight companies. 

Its also ensures extremely competitive 

rates for clients. This is achieved because of 

its own growing freight volume, as well as the 

many contacts it has in the transport 

industry. 

For more information contact National 

Freight Management on ph 03 9800 1444, 

fax 03 9800 1199, Toll free: 1800 990 017 

(outside Melbourne Metro) 

or email: info@natfreightmgt.com.au 

AUTOMO TIVE AFTERMARKET MAG AZINE MAY 2009 9

NEWS 

BURSON TOTALLY RETHINKS 

ITS LOGISTICS OPERATIONS 

When leading Australian auto parts distributor, Burson Automotive, moved to a new greenfield distribution centre in the 

Melbourne suburb of Preston in June 2005, the principal motivation was the need to cater for significant business growth. 

That said, Burson elected to use this 

relocation as an opportunity to totally rethink 

and streamline its total logistics operations. 

Thus discussions were begun with suppliers 

to ensure all inbound stock was properly 

identified and barcoded. 

A comprehensive new warehouse design 

and layout was proposed, based on a full 

analysis of the organisation’s business flows. 

Receiving, Put Away, Picking, 

Replenishment, and Despatch processes 

were substantially re-engineered. And finally, 

the decision was taken to implement an 

advanced warehouse management system 

using the Warehouse Management System 

(WMS) supplied and installed by Pulse 

Logistics Systems. 

Now, nearly two years later, Burson reports 

the successful completion of this major 

logistics project. The final step completed 

last year being the picking of more than 1200 

daily ‘vehicle off road’ or emergency orders 

now being routinely handled by only four staff 

using the Pulse WMS. 

Established in 1971, by Managing 

Director, Garry Johnson, the genesis of the 

Burson business was the distribution of a 

range of automotive chemical products that 

were sold to workshops and service stations 

from a single ‘Cash Van’. 

Today the company employs over 700 

team members in 66 Auto Parts stores 

located throughout Victoria, Tasmania, New 

South Wales, and Queensland. 

With a major focus on serving the auto 

trade for all of their aptly named 

‘aftermarket’ requirements, the new 12,000 

From March 30 until the June 30 2009 

every Century branded battery purchased from 

participating resellers and stockists will receive 

an entry form to go into the draw for a chance 

to win a mind blowing $100,000 cash 

(conditions apply). 

Supported with a national print advertising 

campaign in leading consumer lifestyle and 

motoring magazines and an extensive range of 

in-store merchandise and POS materials, 

square metres Burson Distribution Centre 

(DC) typically ships 15,000 line items per 

day, and receives a comparable number of 

new stock receipts. 

Prior to relocating to the new DC at 

Preston, Burson was based in the Melbourne 

suburb of Heidelberg. Continued business 

expansion forced the company to add to its 

then existing single warehouse, by acquiring 

a similarly sized warehouse on an adjacent 

site. This scenario presented an inherent 

range of efficiency challenges. Of principal 

concern; however, was that this second 

warehouse had also quickly reached its 

capacity. And hence the decision was taken 

in 2004 to move to a brand new purpose 

designed and substantially larger facility. As 

an indication of Burson’s growth, the 

company had 17 stores when it moved into 

the first warehouse at Heidelberg, and had 

58 stores when the decision to relocate to 

Preston was taken. 

As Mr Johnson noted: “We started with 

an empty block of land and a blank sheet of 

paper. Our aim was to create the most 

efficient distribution centre possible. And so 

as well as taking a huge amount of care with 

the new building’s design, we also elected to 

put each and every aspect of our logistics 

operations under the microscope. Our view 

was quite simply that if we could do 

something better we would. 

“In doing all of this, we were motivated 

by the need to maximise customer service 

levels and accommodate future growth as 

opposed to only thinking about productivity 

gains as many companies no doubt would. 

Century is helping resellers grow their battery 

business by generating increased customer 

‘pull through’ leading to increased sales of 

batteries and battery related products. Entries 

close July 13 2009. 

For more information contact a Century 

Batteries representative on 1300 362 287 or 

visit www.centurybatteries.com.au 

“For instance, many of our customers 

need to order a specific part while they are 

actually working on an out-of-service vehicle. 

And if our stores don’t have that part they 

must be able to immediately check the stock 

in the DC to see if the part is there. In doing 

that, they must also have total confidence 

that the information they see is absolutely 

correct. 

“Next they must be able to order and 

receive that product as quickly as possible. 

While finally, whatever we pick and despatch 

to the stores must be 100 percent accurate. 

So if we say we have an item in stock and 

we don’t, then we let the customer down. 

And if we can’t deliver to them quickly we 

let them down. And so too if what we ship is 

not correct. 

“When we began our logistics review we 

felt we were not getting the job done as well 

as we could. Some of our systems and 

procedures had simply evolved over time. 

And so our ambition was to do things a little 

bit smarter,” Mr Johnson concluded. 

For more information call 1800 785 730 

or visit www.pulse.com.au 

WIN A HUNDRED GRAND IN THE HAND 

Century Batteries is supporting its reseller network, with the largest and most exciting 

national consumer promotion ever seen in the Australian automotive battery industry. 


NEWS 

The $12 million 'Kaizen' line will produce 

Australian-made lights for Toyota’s Camry, 

hybrid Camry and Aurion models. 

The partnership between Toyota Motor 

Corporation Australia and Hella is a fine 

example of innovation, collaboration and 

investment in the future. 

Hella's forward-looking investment shows 

just the kind of resilience and confidence 

that will help Australian manufacturing ride 

out the global economic storm. 

The Government is providing $35 million 

through the Green Car Innovation Fund as 

part of a co-investment deal with Toyota to 

manufacture the hybrid Camry at the 

company’s Altona plant in Victoria from 

2010. 

Toyota expects production of the hybrid 

Camry to result in more than $80 million 

NEW AUSTRALIAN PARTS FOR 

AUSTRALIAN-MADE CARS 

Hella opens new $12M production line in Victoria 

Senator Kim Carr, Minister for Innovation, Industry, Science and Research, has welcomed the 

opening of Hella Australia's state-of-the-art production line in Mentone, Victoria. 

worth of purchases throughout the Victorian 

and South Australian automotive components 

industry. 

Mr Carr said the announcement was 

extremely pleasing in the current tough 

economic environment. 

“It is a pleasure to congratulate Hella and 

Toyota on this magnificent announcement,” 

he said. 

“This is exactly the kind of project we 

want to encourage. 

“It is about building world-class capacity 

and making Australia a base for global 

manufacturing in the automotive industry. 

“It proves the point that this country can 

do it as well – if not better – than anyone. 

“We’ve had far too much bad news lately 

– especially in the automotive industry. 

“We are subjected to a steady stream of 

announcements about struggling companies, 

bleak economic conditions, and – most 

tragically of all – job losses for working 

Australians. 

“In times like this – even more than in 

happier times – it is a genuine pleasure to be 

involved in opening new projects.” 

Hella's new Kaizen line is an example of 

the way the Government's $6.2 billion New 

Car Plan for a Greener Future is giving the 

industry the certainty it needs to invest in 

developing the cars of the future. 

A New Car Plan for a Greener Future aims 

to make the industry cleaner, greener and 

more innovative. 

More information on A New Car Plan 

for a Greener Future is available at 

www.innovation.gov.au 

AUTOMO TIVE AFTERMARKET MAGAZINE MAY 2009 11

NEWS 

TOYOTA LEADS GREEN CHARGE 

AT MOTOR SHOW 

The theme of the last Melbourne Motor Show to be held for two years was definitely eco-friendly cars. 

Japanese manufacturers lead the (electric) 

charge with three new petrol-electric hybrids 

and two battery electric cars, which are soon 

to enter production in Japan. 

The third-generation Toyota Prius, the latest 

Lexus high-performance hybrid, the new model 

RX-450h, and Honda’s Insight all took centre 

stage. 

The Motor Show's pure plug-in electric 

contingent included production-ready small 

cars from Mitsubishi and Subaru. 

Mitsubishi's i MiEV is scheduled for 

production this year, and began a roadshow 

around Australia immediately after the Motor Show. 

Completing the electric offerings from major manufacturers was the 

Subaru Stella, which is intended for limited production for the Japanese 

market later this year to showcase Subaru's 

advanced battery technology. 

Australian motorists were given a glimpse 

of the future of motoring with the unveiling 

of three hybrid vehicles by Toyota. 

The vehicles - the first of which will go 

on sale in Australia as early as July - 

emphatically confirmed Toyota's long-term 

commitment to producing hybrid vehicles 

that deliver superior fuel economy and ultralow 

emissions. 

Toyota showcased the all-new thirdgeneration 

Prius (to be launched in 

Australia in less than five months), a dramatic locally styled Hybrid 

Camry Concept Vehicle, and the futuristic 1/X (pronounced one-Xth) 

show car. 

The company's senior executive director sales and 

marketing David Buttner said the vehicles reveal 

Toyota's determination to make sustainable mobility 

a reality. 

"The three Toyota hybrid cars unveiled today 

contain ground-breaking technologies and highlight 

innovative possibilities for the future of motoring," Mr 

Buttner said. 

The Hybrid Camry Concept Vehicle 

was conceived and produced in-house 

by Toyota Style Australia. 

"The Hybrid Camry Concept Vehicle was conceived 

and produced in-house by Toyota Style Australia. 

"It is a strong pointer to the hybrid Camry we will 

manufacture right here in Australia from early next 

year. 

"Its startling paintwork, dramatic lines and sporty 

appearance definitely convey the passion in our 

company to produce Australia's first hybrid car." 

Mr Buttner said all-new third-generation Prius is 

the culmination of experience gained by Toyota from 

selling more than 1.2 million Prius globally over more 

than a decade. 

"The third-generation Prius is a quantum leap in 

technology that includes a remarkable double: 

improved performance while using less fuel," he said. 

The distinctive 1/X represents a vision for hybrid 

motoring in the future. 

"The 1/X concept is a vehicle that completely 

redefines what it means to be environmentally 

considerate. 

"The name says it all: a car that weighs a fraction 

of others in its class today - and uses a fraction of the 

fuel," he said. 


NEWS 

PRO QUIP EXPANDS TO NEW ZEALAND 

The range of Pro Quip products is now available throughout New Zealand 

following the company’s expansion over the Tasman. 

Based in Wellington, the Managing 

Director is Grant Marris who is assisted by his 

National Sales Manager Jason Hobbs. 

Both are very experienced in the local auto 

and transport industries. 

“This is a very significant move for us,” 

Pro Quip’s Martin Haines said. 

“The full range of Pro Quip products will 

now be given top service in New Zealand. And 

CTEK DEFIES DOWNTURN 

CTEK has defied the economic downturn by opening a head office 

for Australia and New Zealand in Melbourne. 

The company, which lays claim to 

manufacturing the smartest battery 

chargers in the world, opened the office a 

week after it exhibited at the Australian 

Auto Aftermarket Expo. 

CTEK’s Sales and Marketing Manager 

for the South Pacific, Stina Wahlqvist, is 

running the operation. 

The company’s Chairman, Bengt 

Wahlqvist, said the products had been 

available in Australia for four years and 

demand for them had taken off in the last 

two. 

He said demand for CTEK’s range of 

charges will become greater as consumers 

look towards maintaining the vehicles they 

already own rather than buying new ones. 

“It is even more important in tough 

economic climate for people to maintain 

their cars,” he said. 

“When new cars sales are going down, 

as it is all over the world, people keep their 

old cars so battery manufacturing has not 

really gone down so much because 

consumers have to replace their batteries. 

“The first quarter for us in 2009 was 

actually the best quarter we’ve ever had.” 

CTEK first began in 2002 and makes 

chargers for luxury vehicles including 

Porsche, Mercedes, Bentley, Maybach, 

Aston Martin, Ferrari, Lamborghini and 

Maserati. 

A small panel fitted inside the car’s 

cabin informs the driver of the condition 

of the car’s battery and whether it needs 

charging. 

The systems have a surge protector 

fitted so that an influx of electricity from 

the mains cannot damage the car’s 

electrics while it is being charged. 

that includes: jerry cans, funnels, battery 

boosters, auto electric products, towing 

equipment, lamps and accessories. 

“Additionally, as we add more exciting 

products so those ranges will be quickly 

matched out of Wellington,” Mr Haines said. 

Pro Quip New Zealand is located at 

3/29 Dragon Street, Granada North, 

telephone 0800 PRO QUIP (0800 776 7847). 

“So you can safely hook up the battery 

for an extended period of time without any 

risk for overcharging or undercharging,” Mr 

Wahlqvist said. 

“The latest companies to come on 

board are Lexus and BMW, and all of the 

companies we build for are very careful 

with what you can attach to the car 

electronics. 

“With it running and attached to the 

mains power, you never know what kind of 

bad voltage you receive so our chargers 

have to protect the car.” 

Mr Wahlqvist described CTEK’s 

products as high-end professional charging 

systems, of which the company has sold 

2 million in Europe. 

CTEK’s range of battery chargers are 

not only aimed at consumers, but also 

workshops and garages. 

“Batteries are normally undercharged 

and when they come in for a service the 

mechanics use all of the lights and fans 

and things and they are using the battery 

to power that up,” Mr Wahlqvist explained. 

“So when the cars leave the garage the 

battery is in even worse condition so we 

recommend mechanics use these bigger 

units which they attach to the car during 

the service so in the same time that you 

power up the car you are actually also 

conditioning the battery.” 

The chargers also allow mechanics to 

disconnect the battery but retain the 

vehicle’s settings so that things like the 

audio system do not have to be 

reconfigured. 

The contact detail’s for CTEK’s Melbourne 

office is 03 9863 9390. 

Jason Hobbs (left) and Grant Marris. 

BOCAR PLACED 

IN VOLUNTARY 

ADMINISTRATION 

Automotive aluminium accessory 

company Bocar has been placed in 

voluntary administration. 

Bocar, which is based on the Gold Coast, 

makes aluminium bullbars for new cars and 

trucks along with trays for one tonners. 

The company also supplies a variety of 

automotive accessories including sports bars 

and nudge bars. 

Bocar’s 200 employees have been advised 

that the business is for sale. 

A number of factors culminated in the 

business being placed in voluntary 

administration. 

Despite growing significantly in the last 

few years, the company had recorded a 

number of losses. 

The company was also being pressured to 

move out of its Burleigh Heads premises 

because it did not have the number of car 

parks required under its council permit. 

Moving the company or splitting its 

operations between different premises was 

not financially affordable. 

Bocar lost 30 per cent of its work in 

October last year due to the credit crunch, 

and could not undertake capital raising as 

people shied away from the automotive 

industry. 

CORRECTION 

In our catalogue feature in the March issue of 

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine we 

inadvertently ran a picture of the latest BOC 

Gases catalogue alongside the text for the Bosch 

catalogue. AAAM apologises for any problems 

this may have caused the affected parties. 

AUTOMO TIVE AFTERMARKET MAGAZINE MAY 2009 13

NEWS 

ATKO’S SPONSORSHIP SEARCH 

Australian World Rally Championship (WRC) driver Chris Atkinson is on the hunt for sponsorship as 

he prepares for Australia’s WRC round, the Repco Rally. 

The 29-year-old from Bega, New South 

Wales, was driving for the factory Subaru Rally 

Team until it withdrew from the WRC at the end 

of 2008 due to the economic downturn. 

Atkinson has since picked up a drive with 

the newly formed Citroen Junior Rally Team, but 

is seeking for more sponsorship to get to his 

goal of the becoming the WRC Champion. 

“We obviously want to be at the Australian 

round competing for Australia in the top level 

and that’s our target,” he said. 

Atkinson prides himself on being one of the 

fittest drivers in the WRC and attributes his 

health to Biosource health and wellbeing 

products. 

Biosource sponsors Atkinson, who believes 

fitness is extremely important for WRC drivers. 

He referred to former Subaru teammate, 

Petter Solberg, who he said was more 

susceptible to colds. 

“That was one thing that kept happening 

when we were in the world championship, he 

was continually getting sick and always running 

himself down pushing himself to the limit 

training and I was always a little bit fitter than 

him, always healthier than him and he couldn’t 

understand why,” Atko explained. 

“I wasn’t going to let him in on my little 

secret and I was going to keep it under wraps. 

“In the end, last year we beat him in the 

Championship and got five podiums to his one 

and I think it paid off. 

“Being a little bit smarter and using 

preventative techniques helps me a lot and I 

think a lot of people haven’t taken that 

approach.” 

Atkinson was amazed at the number of WRC 

drivers who got sick. 

“In rallying there’s a crew limit like Formula 

One and there’s 150 kilos for the two guys. 

“Everyone’s trying to stay as lean and light 

as possible and you’ve seen people do it the 

wrong way by almost starving themselves and 

that’s no way to lead up to an event. 

“A lot of the leading drivers are sick going 

into an event because of the stress; the pressure 

on them is unbelievable.” 

Atkinson hopes to promote that everyone, 

not just elite athletes, should take preventative 

measures to stay in shape and that products like 

Biosource can help. 

Atkinson, who also cycles to keep fit, is no 

stranger to injuries sustained in the WRC. 

“I knocked myself out pretty well in Wales at 

the end of last year,” he explained. 

“We rolled eight times and the car crushed 

into my head and smashed my helmet. 

“I had a bit of brain swelling but there 

wasn’t much there to swell,” Atko laughed. 

Atkinson revealed that it was sometimes a 

struggle to convince crew members that being 

in tip top shape was the key to good results. 

“You’ve got the sports scientists trying to 

look after our health and you have got the 

engineer looking after the performance of the 

car,” he explained. 

“I’ve even had stages where engineers have 

said ‘we’re not going to put a water bottle or a 

camel back in the car’. 

“You go out and do a four hour race and 

you’ve got no water with you; it’s absolutely 

mindless to think that you’re not going to 

hydrate yourself or look after your body. 

“Most times the sports scientist win, but 

people forget that it is a human driving the car.” 

To inquire about sponsoring Atkinson, 

email chris@chrisatkinson.com.au 

RARE SPARES LEGEND ANNOUNCED 

In just its second successful year, the Rare Spares ‘Legend’ Award has already established itself as an industry favourite 

for both recipients and those involved in the motoring enthusiasts market. 

Created by leading automotive company 

Rare Spares, the national ‘Legend’ award 

recognises the lifetime achievements of those 

that have given great levels of dedication to the 

motor industry. Each year an inductee earns 

their place in the Legend Hall of Fame and 

receives a number of personal benefits. 

In addition, Rare Spares uses one of the 

industry's major events, Summernats, to make 

the annual presentation to the inductee each 

year in the form of a dedicated timeslot in the 

popular Saturday night schedule with the 

inductee paraded via a lap of honour of the 

main Summernats arena. 

The 2009 inductee into the Rare Spares 

Legend Hall of Fame is serial car builder and 

one of the most amicable people in the 

industry, Howard Astill. 

Mr Astill joins the inaugural "Legend", hot 

rod icon, Rod Hadfield in the Legend Hall of 

Fame. 

"Since building his first modified Ford in the 

1970s, Howard has inspired thousands of 

Australian car enthusiasts at shows and through 

magazine articles. Howard has won Street 

Machine Magazine's Street Machine of the 

Year, three Summernats Grand Champions and 

has spent most of his life committed to 

excellence in the art of car craftsmanship," said 

Rare Spares General Manager, David Rayner. 

"He is a very worthy inductee into the Rare 

Spares Legend Hall of Fame and on behalf of 

the Directors of Rare Spares and the entire 

motoring industry, we congratulate Howard on 

his achievement," Mr Rayner added. 

2009 Inductee, Mr Astill said: "It is with 

great honour that I accept this prestigious 

award and am privileged to join Rod Hadfield, 

the inaugural member. I would like to thank all 

those people that have worked with me over the 

years and supported my obsession with cars. I 

must say Rare Spares are to be congratulated 

on their foresight to create the Legend Award 

and I look forward in anticipation to the coming 

years as others join the Hall of Fame. 

‘Legends’ receive its own exclusive gold 

helmet with the year of the induction and their 

name sign written on to it. The helmet is 

designed and painted by well-known artist John 

Kral in a scheme exclusive to the Legend 

award”. 

To ensure that recipients receive 

mainstream recognition, they are also provided 

with a dedicated full page advertisement in 

leading publication Street Machine Magazine, 

along with a professional photo shoot. 

Rare Spares has also set up a Legend 

website at www.rarespareslegend.com.au 


HR MATTERS 

REMUNERATION PACKAGES 

Tips for Effective Negotiation. 

Money is one of the most sensitive 

issues in the whole hiring process. 

Discussing a remuneration package often 

causes anxiety for both the employer and 

future employee. The following tips aim to 

help you negotiate your package in the 

most effective manner. 

Do your research. 

The more information you can gather in 

regards to your market value and your 

employer the better. For example, by 

researching the remuneration packages for 

comparable positions prior to entering into 

negotiations you will be better equipped to 

establish realistic expectations about the 

process. 

There is a wealth of information 

available on the internet, at the public 

library, networking groups and universities. 

Time spent learning negotiation skills and 

preparing for negotiations may be the best 

and most worthwhile investment you ever 

make. 

Be fair 

Having consideration for the constraints 

of the business and structure, most 

employers will agree to any reasonable 

salary request. This means that you should 

be able to provide a justification for any 

request you make (i.e. as accepting the 

position will require me to move interstate 

is it possible to arrange some paid time off 

during the first month so as I can seek new 

accommodation? Or, if it is industry 

standard that all on call employees receive 

monthly remuneration for mobile calls 

made then it is reasonable for you to also 

expect this) When the negotiations are 

finalised your new employer will want you 

to feel as if you have accepted an offer 

which is fair and reasonable. 

Understanding this basic principal often 

means the difference between 

accomplishment and disappointment. 

Pushing further when a deal 

has been set could give a 

negative first impression. 

Use the truth to your benefit 

You should never lie in employment 

negotiations. If you choose to lie during the 

salary negotiations sooner or later you will 

be caught. Even if you do not lose the offer 

of employment you will be at a tremendous 

disadvantage and your credibility will be 

called into question. Conversely, total 

candour may not be appropriate either, you 

are under no obligation to reveal everything 

and often it is wise to choose what to 

disclose and when to disclose it. It is also 

advisable to put a positive spin on 

everything. As part of the preparation 

process it is a good idea to consider the 

possible negative points your new employer 

may bring up in the negotiations and work 

out in advance how to best deal with these 

points in the most upbeat and positive 

manner. 

Look at the bigger picture 

When you are negotiating your salary 

package understand that it is not always 

DO YOU HAVE A QUESTION YOU REALLY WANT TO ASK? 

For more information and assistance phone: AAAA HR Hotline on 1300 735 306 or e-mail 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 

David Wilkinson 

AAAA Industrial, Relations Manager 

Phone 1300 735 306 Fax 02 9993 9709 

Email hr@aaaa.com.au 

about the dollar value of the job but also 

the importance of the tasks involved. High 

profile positions or projects which may not 

have a large salary package, in the long 

term, could translate to better positioning 

for the next promotion or more earning 

power in the future. 

Know when to stop 

Many satisfactory negotiations have 

gone sour at the last minute due to greed. 

It is important to know when the 

negotiations are over. Pushing further when 

a deal has been set could give a negative 

first impression. This point carries us on to 

the final (and possibly most important) 

point. 

Recognise the continuous nature of 

the employment relationship 

When all the negotiations are over you 

will need to work with the person that you 

are negotiating with. In many situations 

your future success (i.e. promotion and 

salary increases) depend on this person. 

Thus, your aim should be to negotiate the 

best possible deal for yourself but without 

portraying yourself in a negative fashion 

and souring your employment relationship 

before it even begins. 

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! 


PEDDERS FEATURE 

PEDDERS AWARDS HARD-WORKING STORES 

Pedders Suspension recently held its National 

Conference at the Royal Pines Resort in 

February and officially announced its 2008 

award winners. 

Grant Phillips of Pedders Bendigo won a fierce fight for 

leading store honour’s from other Group A stores to tie with 

fellow Pedders Suspension franchise Pedders Granville for the Top 

Store Award. The awards did not stop there – Pedders Bendigo 

also won the 2008 Top Regional Store Award. 

Pedders own brand ambassador Neil Crompton, with special 

guest Tony Cochrane from V8 Supercars Australia, proudly hosted 

the Pedders Awards night in what was one of the highlights of 

the 2009 Pedders National Conference. 

Mr Phillips said: “My team has worked extremely hard over 

the years and we have wanted to win this award again just to 

show everyone around us that we can do it. I would like to thank 

my staff at Pedders Bendigo and the team at Pedders head office 

for all of their support. Without you this would not be possible.” 

Mr Phillips and his dedicated team have continued to forge 

ahead in both retail and trade. 

Mr Phillips plans to open up a Pedders Suspension superstore 

in the coming year that will be a purpose built state-of-the-art 

mega store. 

Mr Phillips is all too familiar with winning awards and has 

Other outstanding awards winners on the night included: 

Top Labour Award 

Geebung 

Group D Awards 

1st Hoppers Crossing 

2nd Bankstown 

3rd Lilydale 

Group C Awards 

1st Rockhampton 

2nd Footscray 

3rd Hornsby 

“We would like to thank Pedders for the 

prize. We have been customers of the 

Booragoon store for years and have found 

(proprietor) Adam (Philip) and the guys 

always ready to help us out,” Mr Tome said. 

“We always get top quality products 

and service and now we have won an 

excellent prize to boot, I can’t say enough 

really. 

“We are really excited to win the V8 

Top Warehouse - Keswick 

Top Distribution - Blacktown 

Top Retail - Darwin 

Top Sales - Granville 

Group B Awards 

1st Wollongong 

2nd Geelong 

3rd Geebung 

AND THE WINNER IS! 

Supercars prize and can’t wait for the 

Sydney 400 to come around.” 

The Pedders Suspension V8 Supercars 

Extreme Experience Trade Promotion 

continues this month and again two more 

tickets are on offer for every Pedders 

Suspension Trade customer who registers 

for the competition. 

The competition runs from March 

through to September so get in fast! 

previously won Top Regional Store in ’03, ’04, ’06, ’07 along with 

the Top Store Award back in 2005. 

Con Rouggos from Pedders Granville, joint winner of Pedders 

Top Store Award for 2008, said: “I’d like to thank my family for 

their many years of support of myself in the store. They have 

always been there to help me. My team have also been great over 

the years and I’d like to thank them as well. The team at head 

office have also been extremely supportive of my efforts so 

thanks to all.” 

Top State - QLD 

Directory Award - 

Di Rouggos 

Top Regional 

(Kayden Dalliston Award) 

Cairns/Bendigo 

Group A/Top Store 

Bendigo/Granville - winner 

3rd Belconnen 

Pedders Suspension has congratulated Rob Tome of Tech 9 Tyres as 

the inaugural winner of two tickets to the Sydney 400 Grand Finale 

as part of its V8 Supercars Extreme Experience Trade Promotion. 

Power Steering Awards 

Victoria - Geelong 

NSW - Phillip 

SA - Stuart Park 

WA - Osborne Park 

QLD - Moorooka 

TAS - Hobart 

Most Outstanding 

Power Steering Sales 

Phillip - NSW 

See full terms and conditions of entry at 

www.pedders.com.au 


PEDDERS FEATURE 

PEDDERS SUSPENSION 2009 TV 

COMMERCIALS LAUNCH 

To coincide with the group’s official 

sponsorship of the V8 Supercars Pedders 

Suspension has released four new 

television commercials. 

With the use of Neil Crompton the new TV ads will 

promote the four key product groups within the Pedders 

Suspension product and services range as follows and can 

be viewed an accompanying youtube links: 

1. 28pt Steering & Suspension Safety Check 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qKiQP7b1xmE 

2. Sports Ryder 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=htyPnHTmYJU 

3. Load Carrying 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tu9JPHaP5T0 

4. Towing 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W9u_47g3qCU 

NEW PANHARD RODS FROM PEDDERS 

Pedders Suspension has expanded its range of heavy-duty adjustable panhard rods. 

Of particular interest is the release of the Pedders Suspension 

4WD adjustable panhard rods to suit the Nissan Patrol and Toyota 

Landcruiser ranges. 

These are affordable standard replacement units, with steel 

anodized finish, are suited as replacements when the OE unit 

fails. 

Imminent failure can be determined by an annoying 

knocking noise. 

For more information visit www.pedders.com.au 

Its features and benefits include: 

• Made from tough heavy-duty steel with anodised finish; 

• Comes with pre fitted heavy duty urethane bushes or spherical 

joints (subject to application fitments); 

• Adjustable steering damper brackets (on selected models); 

• Adjustable length; 

• Heavy-duty construction and bushings to handle the tough 

rigors of off road conditions; 

• Adjustability allows correction of axle alignment for better 

trackability; 

• Allow front and rear tracks to be aligned to each other to 

assist in improving traction in muddy and sandy conditions. 

IF ITS KNOCKING IT’S TIME FOR REPLACING 

Pedders Suspension has expanded its range of 

replacement sway bar links to suit the Holden 

VE Commodore sedan, ute and wagon. 


PRODUCTS 

Australia’s first dedicated 

LPG spark plug range 

Fitting the right spark plug in LPG vehicles can be tricky 

and time consuming. That’s why Bosch has come up with 

a simple solution to save you time and money: the Bosch 

LPG spark plug range. 

The Bosch LPG spark plug program is Australia’s first 

range of dedicated LPG spark plugs. This extensive range, 

specifically created to cater for the sensitive operating 

environment of LPG engines, includes Bosch Double 

Platinum spark plugs. 

Unlike conventional spark plugs Bosch LPG Double 

Platinum spark plugs require no re-gapping, so you can 

just “fit and forget”! Servicing LPG vehicles is so much 

easier when you have the right plug with the right gap, 

not to mention the savings in time and money. 

The use of pure platinum in the Bosch Double 

Platinum spark plugs minimizes the degradation from 

metal transfer that occurs every time the spark plug fires, 

improving the plug’s efficiency and performance. 

The properties of platinum also increase the life of the 

spark plug, important in LPG vehicles. Higher 

temperatures in the combustion chamber and high 

voltage, which occur when using LPG, accelerate spark 

plug wear leading to plugs needing to be changed more 

often than those used in petrol vehicles. Bosch Double 

Platinum spark plugs solve this problem with an extended 

life, more than double that of most standard spark plugs. 

Bosch invented the spark plug in 1902 and has been 

an original equipment supplier for both petrol and LPG 

engines (both series-built and converted) for years. 

So after more than 100 years of developing, testing 

and manufacturing spark plugs, it’s no surprise that Bosch 

is recommended by the worlds leading vehicle 

manufacturers. 

For further information on the Bosch LPG range of spark 

plugs please contact the Bosch Customer Service Centre 

on 1300 30 70 40 or visit the website www.bosch.com.au 

Mackay releases 2009 Hose Catalogue 

Mackay’s latest hose catalogue has now hit the market. 

The 2009 Hose Master Catalogue contains a 

massive 416 pages, packed with 566 new part 

numbers, including: 

• 465 new “CH” moulded hose part numbers 

• 29 new “Vehicle Hose Packs” 

• Eight new “Mackay Performance Silcone Hose 

Packs” 

• 53 new range “MackayFlex Convoluted Hoses” 

• Nine new “Universal” hose lines including 45 

degree hose bends. 

New applications covered include many late 

model passenger and 4 Wheel-Drive vehicles, apart 

from the usual strong coverage of Australian and 

Asian models, there is emphasis on several European 

and North American vehicles now entering the 

market. 

All popular features of the Mackay catalogue such as the hose graphics, where used 

guide, cross-references and the hose dimension listings are fully updated in the 2009 

edition. 

For more information email automotive@mackayrubber.com.au 

or contact your nearest Mackay distributor. 

The ultimate LED 

Strobe for harsh 

environments 

The ultimate in high output light intensity 

and reliability in emergency lighting for 

harsh environments has been announced 

in the latest release from Narva with the new 'Megaburst' strobe. 

Using high intensity LEDs with five selectable flash patterns along with rugged 

construction, the Narva 'Megaburst' high output LED strobe offers a high level of 

safety and reliability. For convenience in the field, an internal switch can be 

triggered to alter the flash pattern without removing the lamp from its mounting. 

The new 'Megaburst' EMC approved lamp has a large aluminium heat sink base 

and cap to cater for the heat generated by the high output LEDs. Clever electronics 

are built into the circuit board that can be programmed for a variety of applications 

to suit the working environment. The circuit board is protected by epoxy resin and 

with no moving parts, ultra long life of up to 100,000 hours life can be expected 

from the LEDs. 

A safer working environment is created due to the high flux LEDs mounted on 

the circuit board plus the latest in high power LEDs mounted on a central shaft, 

creating a primary and secondary effect in the strobe. 

By nature, the LEDs used in the 'Megaburst', draw far less power than 

conventional lighting sources (1.8A at 12V) whilst producing less heat. With 

resistance to shock and vibration the Megaburst is ideally suited to heavy-duty 

applications in mining operations, contractors plant and equipment, earthmoving 

machinery etc. It is virtually maintenance free and carries a five-year Narva 

warranty. 

Narva 'Megaburst' strobe lights are available in amber, red and blue lenses from 

leading automotive and transport outlets throughout Australia. 

For more information call 03 9730 6000. 


PRODUCTS 

Classic Clutch Launch 

New and precision rebuilt clutch components to 

restore your pride and joy. 

Australian Clutch Services has expanded its Classic Clutch range 

to the point where in 2009 it decided these pieces of history 

deserved their own banner. 

Launched in 2009, ACS claims that Classic Clutch is 

Australasia’s only location where you will be able to source 

complete clutch assemblies for classic marques such as 

Ferrari, Lamborghini, Alfa, Maserati, MG, Lotus, Triumph, 

Leyland, Aston Martin, and Jaguar as ‘off-the-shelf’ items. 

It also claims that you will find personnel with the 

expertise and experience to be able to rebuild and reset your 

original clutch components that are simply no longer 

available. 

Also available are original 

equipment replacement 

and high performance 

alternatives for your classic 

muscle car. ACS caters for 

Chevrolet, Buick, Dodge, 

Ford, Chrysler, among many 

others. If it’s not in ACS’s 

catalogue, Classic Clutch can 

still make or rebuild and 

upgrade a clutch to suit your 

needs. 

Classic Clutch encompasses: 

• Clutch covers 

• Clutch discs 

• Clutch dampers 

• Flywheels 

• Thrust bearings 

• Aligning Tools, Dowels and Spigot Bearings 

For more information call 1800 CLUTCH 

or visit www.australianclutch.com.au 

Premier Auto Trade catalogue range expanded 

Premier Auto Trade has released several new editions to its series of product catalogues. 

Premier Auto Trade’s range of EFI and Engine Management components 

specialises in genuine and original equipment (OE) products from the world’s leading 

manufacturers including, Delphi, Pierburg, Continental, Standard, Denso, Valeo, 

Bougicord, and Walker Products. Produced specifically for their network of 

specialised resellers the catalogues are designed to make distributors’ jobs easier in 

this time precious market. 

With over 4000 

component lines Premier 

Auto Trade has focused 

on developing a package 

which addresses the 

specific requirements 

of distributors and 

resellers, developing 

functional and user 

friendly catalogues with 

easy to reference data for thousands of parts and vehicle applications, with large 

clear photographs for easy recognition of components. The catalogues feature a full 

colour coded and easy to search layout, which makes finding the part needed quick 

and easy. 

The latest catalogue releases include: 

• Fuel Pumps, Regulators, Injectors (Catalogue 1 - Revision 2); 

• Oxygen Sensors (Catalogue 7); 

• Air, Temperature, Knock and Speed Sensors, Oil Pressure switches (Catalogue 8); 

• Air Mass Meters. Map Sensors and EGR Valves (Catalogue 6). 

These compliment the existing catalogue range, which includes: 

• Crank and Cam angle sensors (Catalogue 2); 

• Ignition Coils (Catalogue 3); 

• Distributors, Ignition Modules, Hall Sensors & Pickups (Catalogue 4); 

• Idle Speed Control Valves, Throttle Bodies and Throttle Position Switches 

(Catalogue 5). 

The Premier Auto Trade catalogues are available to specialist resellers 

and distributors. For more information visit www.premierautotrade.com.au 


PRODUCTS 

What is zMAX Microlubricants and what does it do? 

zMAX, a commercialised metal interface treatment, is a uniquely processed mineral oil that 

has demonstrated its ability to improve fuel economy, reduce engine deposits, and reduce wear 

through the process of micro-lubrication. 

This micro-lubrication improves 

performance by reducing engine friction, 

affording an attendant improvement in fuel 

economy, and reducing engine wear and 

deposits in critical high temperature sealing 

areas. Because this uniquely processed 

mineral oil is able to both adsorb on to and 

absorb (penetrate) into the pores, cracks, and 

fissures in the engine's metallurgy, a new 

mechanism of micro-lubrication is offered for 

improving the overall lubrication and 

performance in automotive engines. 

zMAX is derived from a highly refined 

mineral oil that undergoes a proprietary 

process involving specific molecular 

rearrangement. It has a kinematic viscosity of 

11.5 cSt at 40°C and 3.00 cSt at 100°C, a 

Surface Tension of 27.75 dynes/cm at 20°C, 

and an API gravity of 36.6. A comparison of 

the high temperature distillation results of 

zMAX versus the mineral oil used for its 

production reveal zMAX having a slightly 

higher boiling range than the 

originating mineral oil. Chemical 

analyses using gas chromatography 

and mass spectroscopy conducted 

by Triton Analytics Corporation 

(Houston, TX) show a greater 

concentration of linear 

hydrocarbon chains in zMAX than 

in mineral oil. 

Since zMAX is added to the 

engine oil, a misconception may 

exist that zMAX is an additive for 

engine oils. This is incorrect as the 

SAE J357 OCT 99 Information 

Report Physical and Chemical 

Properties of Engine Oils provides 

this definition "A lubricant additive agent is a 

material designed to enhance the performance 

properties of the base stock or to improve the 

base stock properties that do not naturally 

exist with the base stock." Clearly, zMAX does 

neither of these two functions, as it is not 

designed to improve or enhance any qualities 

of the engine oil. Introducing it into the engine 

oil is merely the means to transport zMAX 

directly to the engine's metallurgy. 


or visit www.zmax.com.au 

20 AUTOMO TIVE AFTERMARKET MAG A ZINE MAY 2009 www.aaaa.com.au

PRODUCTS 

New coolant hose packs 

The primary cause of coolant hose 

failure is an electrochemical attack on 

the rubber compound; known as 

electrochemical degradation, or ECD. 

The effects of ECD are not 

unique to the top and bottom hose 

only, ECD impacts on the entire 

systems of coolant hose. If one 

coolant hose requires replacing due 

to ECD, it is highly likely that the 

other hose will need replacement 

too. 

Gates has made this process easy 

for professional technicians and the D.I.Y mechanic, by introducing 

convenient hose packs, which contain all the relevant hose parts you 

need for a comprehensive coolant hose service. The packs even include 

clamps. 

Gates Hose Packs are vehicle specific and eliminate the hassle of 

shopping around for coolant hose parts. There are 10 part numbers now 

available in the range, including applications for Ford Falcon, Holden 

Commodore, Toyota Landcruiser, Toyota Camry and Mitsubishi Pajero. 

For more information on ECD and Gates Hose packs, including full 

application listing, visit www.gatesaustralia.com.au 

Intake performance 

The BMC Air Filter Direct Intake Airsystem (DIA) is a revolutionary air filter that is 

ideal for performance applications. 

The DIA is a fully enclosed filter that offers enhanced 

performance, which can increase both your 

engine power and fuel economy. 

Thanks to the direct air intake, you 

get a high-flowing, low restriction 

system that conveys fresh air to the 

air box at a speed greater than a 

traditional system. Two universal 

fitments are available, for 

engine capacity up to 1.6 

litres and for applications 

over 1.6 litres. 

BMC Air Filters feature 

a unique filtering element, 

with four ply cotton gauze, 

soaked in specially 

formulated oil that is 

sandwiched between two 

aluminium nets that are finished with an epoxy coating. 

This unique filtering element traps even the most minute particles ensuring 

maximum protection from dirt particles, petrol fumes and oxidisation while 

allowing for maximum airflow 

For more information visit www.linkauto.com.au 

or call Link International on 07 3382 5000. 


PRODUCTS 

Autoinfo electronic parts catalogue 

AutoInfo released its suite of electronic parts catalogues and data at the AAAA 

Sydney Expo. 

Although appearing as a 

newcomer, the AutoInfo team has 

been well seasoned in the 

aftermarket and spent the past 

three years preparing its products. 

The AutoInfo mission is to make 

the Australian parts aftermarket as 

smart as the OEM parts suppliers 

by accurately identifying the car 

and thus supplying the correct 

parts to the repairer the first time. 

Problems facing the aftermarket 

At the moment the Australian 

car fleet is getting more diverse and 

complicated while at the same time 

a general decline of skills are 

available in the industry at the 

supply end. This is a true doubleedged 

sword. 

The aftermarket must now be 

very precise about the model before 

supplying parts otherwise the 

contingency order scenario of all 

three possible water pumps being 

sent and two returned will continue 

to become more commonplace, 

thus placing pressure on inventory 

and compounding administration 

costs for both retailer and repairer. 

So how can AutoInfo help? 

Manufacturers and importers 

need to know what models are on 

the road in Australia, how to 

accurately define them and how 

many of each variant there are so 

that the required parts can be 

made available. AutoInfo provides 

an accurate vehicle index with 

precise on-road quantities, this 

coupled with access to its 

standardised database allows direct 

manufacturer input into the same 

system that resellers and repairers 

use. 

Distributors and resellers need 

to be able to have appropriate 

inventory on hand and have access 

to lower volume parts in a timely 

fashion, frontline staff need to 

rapidly identify the correct part 

number for a customers request to 

be able to sell the inventory. 

AutoInfo provides a unified 

catalogue with all parts of all part 

types from all manufacturers shown 

in a single vehicle listing, no more 

ferreting through websites that all 

operate differently or worse still 

locating hard-copy books of varying 

vintages. 

Repairers need to have 

confidence the aftermarket can 

supply them the correct parts at a 

fair price in a timely fashion, they 

need to accurately quote jobs with 

confidence that the final price will 

match initial estimates. AutoInfo 

provide access to the same unified 

catalogue so that they can see all 

their aftermarket options regardless 

of brand or distribution channel. 

Who is AutoInfo? 

David Wyeth has 25 Years in the 

automotive and heavy diesel parts 

business, the past 12 have been 

spent building electronic parts 

catalogues and analysing vehicle 

data. 

Jeff Clare has 30 years in the 

auto parts aftermarket industry, in 

both trade and retail, Jeff has an 

absolute passion for helping 

counter staff make the sale. 

Wayne MacDonald has 15 years 

in the auto parts aftermarket. Our 

software and vehicle definition 

guru, Wayne will stop at nothing to 

get accurate vehicle details. 

This team is backed by advice 

and governance from Bob Wyeth 

and Stas Mintowt-Czyz, both 

veterans of the Aftermarket and a 

serious knowledge pool of anything 

automotive in Australia, New 

Zealand, Europe and USA. 

The AutoInfo suite includes: 

Autoi Editor 

A powerful data editing and 

analysis tool for manufacturers and 

importers to load parts listings 

against our extensive vehicle index, 

this exposes them directly to our 

catalogue users. This allows access 

to our statistical knowledge of the 

Australian fleet in a meaningful 

and flexible manner. 

PartFinder 

The most user-friendly, 

accurate and powerful search 

engine available for aftermarket 

hard parts, PartFinder lets the 

operator see everything available 

for a vehicle in one comprehensive 

listing, multiple brands are 

represented and up-sell options are 

one mouse click away. Add-on 

sales are simplified by logically 

placing related items together such 

as hoses, thermostat etc shown 

next to water pumps. 

PartFinder Lite 

Repairers can access the same 

search technology to define their 

vehicle parts and see all parts 

options available from the 

aftermarket, if there is an offer they 

can see it regardless of who 

manufactures or supplies it, this 

will help repairers order by part 

number saving time and money, 

any difficult applications will 

become apparent quickly enabling 

the repairer to get further details 

from the vehicle or forewarn him of 

identification issues. 

For more information contact 

AutoInfo on +64 9 537 8550 or 

visit www.autoi.com.au 


PRODUCTS 

Gates launches new hose 

application catalogue 

Gates Australia has released its new 

Radiator Hose Application Catalogue 

(Part #496-2043). 

The new catalogue features 173 new 

hose applications, and 52 new hose part 

numbers, providing customers with the 

most up to date information available 

from Gates. 

The catalogue also features a 

comprehensive competitor change over 

listing and OE cross reference, along with 

detailed information on the new Gates 

Coolant Hose Packs. 

To obtain copies of the new Hose Pack Brochure (496-2104) 

and/or the new Radiator Hose Catalogue (496-2043) 

visit www.gatesaustralia.com.au to download a PDF copy, 

or alternatively email southpacsales@gates.com 

Haigh Australia’s triple release 

Haigh Australia has just released three new product catalogues to showcase the 

wide and extensive range of specialised automotive products they manufacture. 

These include Sunland 

Dashmats, Protective Plastics and 

the new range of Sunland Tailored 

Floor Mats. 

Alongside the mandatory model 

listings and general product features 

each of the catalogues contain 

extensive information on their 

popular customising services such as 

logos and monogramming. These 

exciting options allow consumers to 

make a truly personalised purchase 

and it seems Haigh has certainly hit 

the mark by catering to this growing 

trend. 

Sunland continues to lead the 

way in dashmat development and 

still offers customers the largest 

range of models available in 

Australia today. The Protective 

Plastics range of headlight covers, 

bonnet protectors and 

weathershields has gained a strong 

following and with over 100 new 

additions to its range since 2008, it 

continues to set new sales marks. 

Haigh predicts similar success for its 

new range of Parklane Tailored Floor 

Mat which are sure to be popular 

with customers. 

To keep fully informed about its latest 

product releases visit 

www.haigh.com.au. 

If you haven’t received your new 

catalogues then please contact Haigh 

on 07 3375 3933 or speak to your 

Haigh State Sales Manager. 


PRODUCTS 

New Dayco heater control valves 

Dayco, the leading brand of automotive power transmission and 

cooling system components in the Australian and New Zealand 

aftermarket has released a new premium quality range of heater 

control valves. 

Heater control valves regulate the flow of engine coolant to 

the vehicle's heater core. In the off position, the heater control 

valve blocks coolant flow to the heater core when no heating is 

required and the reverse is applied to activate interior heating. 

In late model vehicles the heater valve can be activated by 

vacuum control or in older models by 

cable. 

Common heater valve 

failures include leakage, 

blocking and cracking 

due to the fact that most 

late model heater control 

valves are made of 

polymer. Often the 

cracking occurs when 

heater hoses are 

removed. 

Dayco has released a 

premium quality aftermarket 

replacement heater control valve program 

for fitment to popular local and imported vehicles. Initial Dayco 

replacement heater control valve applications include the 

following: 

• Holden Barina, Astra & Vectra Holden VN - VY 6 cyl; 

• Holden VZ 6cyl; 

• Holden HQ - HZ Torana 6 cyl; 

• Ford EA - AU V8 Ford EA - AU 6cyl; 

• Ford XD - XF 6cyl; 

• Ford XA - XC 6 cyl. 

Universal Fitment Model (DHV4008) All Dayco heater 

control valves have been manufactured to meet or exceed OEM 

standards. These new additions to Dayco's extensive aftermarket 

product range share the total quality characteristics that are 

synonymous with the well-trusted Dayco name. 


Yella Terra releases Chrysler Hemi 

supercharger kit 

Chrysler’s new generation 5.7 and 6.1 litre Hemi V8s are fitted to many exciting models 

around the world including the 300C, Magnum, Dodge Daytona, Jeep Cherokee SRT and 

the stunning new Dodge Challenger. 

These cars have rapidly become the 

basis of many great looking Street 

Machines that rarely had the power to 

match their looks through lack of 

affordable, effective power upgrades. 

Now Australia’s Yella Terra has 

changed the face of Hemi performance 

with the release of a bolt on 

supercharger kit based on Whipple’s 

legendary 2.4-litre screw charger. 

The Yella Terra kit features OEM 

quality engineering and comes 

complete with a water to air intercooler 

system and high flow billet fuel rails 

and injectors to suit high boost 

applications. With professional tuning 

and an appropriate air intake system, 

power outputs over 350kw at the 

wheels are achievable with this kit. 

More impressive is the huge gains 

in torque and instant throttle response 

that only a Whipple screw charger can 

deliver. 

The Yella Terra Chrysler 

supercharger kit is available for both 

5.7 and 6.1 SRT engine types from 

Yella Terra stockists throughout 

Australia, New Zealand , USA, Canada 

and the Middle East. 

For more information email 

sales@yellaterra.com.au. 


PRODUCTS 

New Bosch KTS 340 

Simple Diagnosis 

at your fingertips 

With the number of electronics systems in today’s 

vehicles increasing so rapidly, workshops now 

need a multifunctional tester, not just an ECU 

diagnostics unit, to avoid having to refer work to 

a third party. 

If the most important tool in your workshop 

is information, then the key to profitability is 

being able to access it easier, faster and in 

more detail. That’s where the new Bosch KTS 

340 diagnostic tool becomes the tool you can’t 

live without. 

Compact, comprehensive and mobile, the 

Bosch KTS 340 is the latest addition to the 

KTS series of diagnostic testers, designed 

specifically for mobile use. The KTS 340 

enables the workshop to have everything 

needed for diagnosis, troubleshooting, 

maintenance and service simply at the touch 

of a button. 

With the Bosch KTS 340 frequently used 

information such as vehicle data, diagnostic 

plug installation, or maintenance information 

can be accessed with one touch. The 8.4” 

touch screen makes it simpler to switch 

between the applications. For example, direct 

access to the diagnosis function can be gained 

from the fault location instructions or the 

maintenance schedule, with consistent screen 

display throughout. 

Equipped with WLAN, the KTS 340 makes 

it possible to print test results, allowing access 

to older vehicle information that may be saved 

on a workshop PC. The totally mobile unit 

operates without a mains connection, using 

integrated AA batteries and can be charged in 

the cigarette lighter, the car's diagnostic 

socket, or via the mains supply. 

In developing the KTS 340 Bosch has also 

modified the ESI[tronic] software, making it 

much easier to use. All the information 

software required for troubleshooting, 

maintenance and service work is incorporated 

in the device, making it instantly available. An 

integrated two-channel multimeter enables 

comprehensive resistance, diode, voltage and 

current measurements. CAS[plus], included in 

the ESI[tronic] software, links the fault-finding 

instructions to the diagnostics, guiding the 

mechanic through test steps and providing all 

the fault information and diagnostics functions 

needed for repair. 

A new Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) is 

also included in the KTS 340 package, to 

supplement the SIS-Instructions (Service 

Information Systems). This provides rapid 

access to common vehicle faults, symptoms 

classified by systems groups (such as ABS, 

airbag, engine management, etc.), a clear 

description of the cause of the problem and 

validated repair tips and/or solutions. All these 

steps are supported by diagrams, making every 

step even simpler to follow. The KTS 340 with 

these clear, intuitive operation elements and 

integrated measuring technology is therefore 

better able to support the demands of today’s 

workshops. 

Diagnostics is the key to the workshop of 

the future. As vehicle systems become more 

complex the demands placed on qualified 

diagnosis in the workshop are increasing 

rapidly. For professional service on modern 

vehicles, Bosch provides everything at one 

stop; test technology, continuously updated 

software, technical training and a product 

support hotline. 

To find out more about the Bosch KTS 340, or 

any other diagnostic test equipment in the Bosch 

range, please call Bosch Diagnostics Customer 

Service on 1300 783 031. 


BOSCH FEATURE 

PREPARING WORKSHOPS 

FOR THE FUTURE 

Now, perhaps more than ever before, the automotive aftermarket is experiencing a period of 

significant change. 

The broader use of ECUs in vehicles, 

the diminishing need to repair rather than 

replace key electrical system components 

and the increasingly competitive nature of 

the market all make it harder for small 

businesses to survive. 

So it’s no surprise that many of these 

workshops are reviewing their business 

models and looking for ways to increase 

profit to guarantee their future. 

But even larger corporations, like 

Bosch, have been reviewing its direction 

to ensure that their model is right for the 

future. In fact, Bosch has been 

progressively doing this for some years 

now. Older participants within the 

automotive industry will remember 

Bosch’s strength as an electrical system 

manufacturer, but as the needs of the 

service and repair industry have changed, 

so has Bosch. 

Today, Bosch’s automotive aftermarket 

business features a much broader range 

of product. The focus is on developing 

vehicle servicing solutions which give 

workshops a competitive edge in the 

market. One of the advantages for Bosch 

is its extensive exposure to the 

development of the very latest technology 

through its global original equipment 

contracts. 

The key is to find ways to 

help the workshop save time 

during a vehicle service 

With the expansion of electronics to 

control critical vehicle functions such as 

safety systems, transmissions and engine 

management systems, comes an increased 

need for vehicle diagnostics within the 

workshop. 

Bosch invests a significant amount each 

year on the development of diagnostic 

equipment and software to ensure that 

workshops have the capability of 

conducting their own diagnostic work and 

therefore keeping as much profit within 

their own business as possible. All of this is 

captured in Bosch’s proprietary software 

known as ESI[tronic] which is the brains 

behind Bosch diagnostic tools. 

This same approach has been 

expanded over recent years to further 

broaden the range of workshop 

equipment available from Bosch. The 

acquisition of Beissbarth provides access 

to high quality wheel-end equipment such 

as wheel aligners and tyre balancers. For a 

relatively moderate investment this 

provides an opportunity for workshops to 

increase their services and their 

profitability. 

To support this further expansion 

Bosch has created a separate business unit 

within their aftermarket division to focus 

specifically on the support and expansion 

of equipment solutions for workshops. 

Most noticeably here is the industry 

leading approach to product training 

where every purchase is supported by a 

comprehensive training program. 

“We understand that this is a 

significant investment for many 

workshops and we want to help them 

achieve a satisfactory return on their 

investment as soon as possible,” Stuart 

Howe, Manager of the Bosch workshop 

equipment business, said. 

And Bosch is making headway in other 

areas as well. The introduction of product 

programs previously seen as foreign to 

them within the Australian automotive 

aftermarket are now gaining a strong 

foothold. 

Products such as filters and wipers fit 

comfortably alongside spark plugs and 

batteries as key service components. 

However the idea is not simply to deliver 

a product the same as others in the 


BOSCH FEATURE 

market, but to deliver the best possible 

product and to develop programs within 

each product category, which allows the 

workshop to increase their profitability. 

Take spark plugs for instance. Recently 

Bosch upgraded its program to totally 

revamp the way in which spark plugs can 

be cost effectively managed and sold. The 

product design was re-engineered, where 

applicable, incorporating a high focus on 

the benefits of utilising Platinum 

technology to increase performance and 

life. The range itself was reviewed and 

products re-engineered where possible to 

reduce the burden of high stock levels by 

creating a shorter range of product for 

the same number of applications. Finally 

the product was differentiated into three 

distinct performance levels providing both 

workshops and retailers greater 

opportunity to up-sell product and 

increase profit. 

The ongoing support for traditional 

ignition components along with newer 

engine management service items such as 

oxygen sensors and glow plugs is 

supported by expansion into areas such as 

drive and timing belts where the 

exceptional Bosch quality is being rapidly 

accepted by the market. 

“The key is to find ways to help the 

workshop save time during a vehicle 

service,” explains Bosch Aftermarket 

Marketing Manager, Rolf Schillinger. “For 

example, our wiper blades feature a 

Quick-Clip mechanism which means you 

can change them over faster than you can 

fit a refill. So the workshop saves time and 

their customer gets better quality vision 

because it’s a better product – everybody 

wins.” 

This approach to developing products 

is now being extended to increasing the 

level of Bosch knowledge which can be 

passed on to workshops. Bosch has long 

been recognised for its industry leading 

training workshops; simply ask any of the 

611 Bosch Authorised Service Dealers 

across Australia and New Zealand. Now 

Bosch has introduced a regular 

publication known as Future Workshop 

which will provide access to critical Bosch 

service tips and opportunities for making 

workshops more profitable along with 

keeping abreast of the latest in Bosch 

products and technology. 

The most recent development in 

improving Bosch’s offer to automotive 

workshops is the acquisition of the PBR 

brake business. PBR was already a leading 

brand within the brake aftermarket but 

the addition of specialised Bosch brake 

product will make it easier for workshops, 

brake specialists and distributors to gain 

access to a strong, consolidated brake 

program. 

So whether it be petrol, diesel or LPG; 

engine, brake or electrical, Bosch is 

helping workshops to diagnose better and 

service more efficiently, which will 

ultimately lead to more profitable and 

sustainable workshops. 

For further information on how to use 

Bosch product to improve profit for your 

business or to subscribe to Future 

Workshop, contact your Bosch 

representative or call Bosch Customer 

Service on 1300 30 70 40. 


EXPO REVIEW 

An initiative of the Australian 

Automotive Aftermarket Association 

(AAAA), the combined Expos covered 

20,000 square metres of floor space 

with high quality exhibits featuring 

Australian and international products 

and services. 

AAAA Executive Director, Stuart Charity, 

said the 2009 visitor numbers for these 

trade-only expos were 33 percent higher 

than the 2005 Sydney show organised by 

the AAAA. 

"There were three stand out features of 

these expos," he said. 

"First, the exhibitors made significant 

investments in these shows - 70 percent 

were custom designed - and the four full 

halls of the Sydney Exhibition Centre 

looked fantastic." 

Mr Charity said the stands were big and 

bright and the people were buzzing. 

"Second, the quality of enquiries and 

leads received by the exhibitors was very 

high," he said. 

"The visitors came to talk business and 

many exhibitors remarked that there were 

few time wasting 'tyre kickers'. 

"And third, the networking opportunities 

offered by these events were happily 

accepted." 

Mr Charity said all of the industry events 

held in conjunction with the expos were 

well supported. 

"During the Collision Repair Expo, all of 

the International Seminar Series sessions 

Expos prove strength of the aftermarket 

The Auto Aftermarket Expo and Collision Repair Expo held at the Sydney Exhibition Centre from April 2-4 

won a strong response from the aftermarket mechanical and crash repair sectors, with 8144 visitors 

exploring the 370 exhibitor displays. 

2009 AAAA Kim Aunger Young Achiever Award winner Guy Nicholls (left) 

received his trophy from 2007 winner Kieran Field. 

were close to capacity, as were the 24 

demonstrations held in the Lowbake spray 

booth. 

"The Awards to Industry Banquet 

recognising AAAA members' achievements 

was enjoyed by 500 people, and capacity 

crowds attended the other AAAA functions 

held during the expos. 

"There are no other events in Australia 

that bring together such a large and 

committed automotive aftermarket 

audience." 

Mr Charity congratulated all of the 

exhibitors for their determination to defy 

the economy and showcase the strength of 

the Australian auto aftermarket. 

"One key to the success of these expos 

is enthusiastic industry involvement in 

producing these shows," he said. 

"Each Expo is driven by a hard working, 

committee consisting of volunteers 

representing industry businesses. 

"This means the expos are run by the 

industry, for the industry. 

"We are grateful to these teams, and to 

the major corporate sponsors Armor All and 

PPG for their ongoing support." 

Auto Aftermarket Expo 

Innovative exhibits were a feature of the 

Auto Aftermarket Expo with many displays 

providing demonstrations of tools and 

equipment. 

An effective technique for some 

exhibitors was the use of mini workshop 

sessions combining video presentations 

with the real time demonstrations. 

Another creative use of display space 

tested by Autodata Australia was a mini 

meeting room built into the stand. 

National Sales Manager, Brett 

Engeman, said the meeting room was busy 

virtually non-stop with interested visitors. 

"The leads were very strong - we got 

enough work from this show to keep us 

busy for three months," he said. 

The Auto Aftermarket Expo also hosted 

the second running of the SACHS Masters, 

Australia's only team based automotive 

technicians competition, which was 

sponsored by ZF Australia Pacific. 

The challenging three-day competition 

brought 13 teams of three members each 

from all over Australia to tackle complex 

mechanical and diagnostic problems on 

two identical Toyota Corolla vehicles in full 

view of thousands of show visitors. 

Teams had two-and-a-half hours to 

complete their tasks under the watchful 

eyes of skilled judges from industry and 

education, including the University of 

Ballarat (VIC) and the Wetherill Park 

College of TAFE (NSW). 

ZF Australia Pacific Managing Director, 

Peter Duncan, and Team BOC V8 Supercar 

driver Jason Richards congratulated the 

2009 SACHS Masters Champions and 

major placegetters, which all represented 

independent workshops. 

contnued page 31 

Ron Pedder (right) received the 2009 AAAA Outstanding Service to Industry Award from 

2007 winner Andrew Schram. Ron Pedder was also inducted into the AAAA Hall of Fame. 


EXPO REVIEW 

Collision Repair Expo 

Enthusiastic participation from industry leading paint companies and body jig 

manufacturers was a highlight of the Collision Repair Expo. 

A large number of exhibitors sponsored their international suppliers and principals 

to visit the 2009 Expo. 

Many of these visitors said the standard of presentation of this Collision Repair Expo 

was equal to the major overseas shows, including NACE, the International Autobody 

Congress and Exposition held in Las Vegas. 

In addition to the International Seminar Series and the Lowbake demonstration spray 

booth activities, a number of Collision Repair Expo exhibitors also hosted special 

functions as part of their investment in the show. 

Good attendances were reported for these events and the networking was 

appreciated. 

Choice of Repairer campaign 

The 2009 Expos also provided the launch platform for the Choice of Repairer 

campaign. 

This AAAA initiative on behalf of the independent aftermarket is designed to promote 

consumer choice and fair competition in the automotive parts, accessories, repair and 

service industry. 

"The aim of the Choice of Repairer campaign is to protect choice and competition 

in vehicle repair, servicing and replacement parts sectors by eliminating any technical 

or legal barriers that impact on the Australian consumers' rights to have their vehicle 

serviced, maintained and repaired in a timely manner, at competitive prices, and in the 

workshop of their choice," Mr Charity said. 

"The campaign was well received by our members, and the synergy with the collision 

repair industry was recognised by many from that sector. 

"We look forward to working with the industry to progress this important step in 

achieving a level playing field for businesses in the independent aftermarket." 

2011 Expos 

President Peter Hein (left) welcomed George Kallinikos 

into the AAAA Hall of Fame. 

Mr Charity said with such an outstanding response from the industry, the expos were 

considered a success. 

"As the shows were winding down on Saturday, expressions of interest started flooding 

in from exhibitors for the 2011 Expos, which will be held from May 12-14 at the 

Melbourne Exhibition Centre," he said. 

"We learned many things to help improve future expos, and we encourage exhibitors 

to forward their ideas to make the Auto Aftermarket Expo and Collision Repair Expo 

bigger and better next time." 

AAAA President Peter Hein (left) presented the certificate and trophy 

to new Hall of Fame Inductee David Wright. 

THANK YOU TO ALL OUR EVENT SPONSORS 

AUSTRALIAN AUTO AFTERMARKET EXPO SPONSORS 

Major Corporate Sponsor – Armor All 

Park 'N' Ride Sponsor - Monroe 

Exhibition Show Bag Sponsor – 

Australian Timken Pty Ltd 

Visitor Lanyard – Exedy Australia Pty Ltd 

VIP Lounge – OAMPS Insurance Brokers Ltd 

International Lounge – Austrade 

Aisle Sponsor – Speciality Automotive Products Pty Ltd 

Show Bag Insert – Exedy Australia Pty Ltd 

Show Bag Insert - Klippan Safety Products 

BEST NEW AFTERMARKET PRODUCTS 

BREAKFAST SPONSOR 

GS1 Australia 

AWARDS TO INDUSTRY BANQUET SPONSORS 

Platinum Sponsor – Repco Australia 

Gold Sponsor – DAYCO Australia Pty Ltd 

Silver Sponsor – Robert Bosch Australia 

Bronze Sponsor – PBR Australia Pty Ltd 

Pre Dinner Cocktail Sponsor – Gates Australia P/L 

Advertising & Media Awards – 

NGK Spark Plug (Australia) Pty Ltd 

Marketing Award - DBC Management Pty Ltd 

Manufacturing Award – Supercheap Auto 

Export Award – Austrade 

Trade Show Stand Awards – AAAA Magazine 

Awards to Industry Banquet Support Sponsors 

Brown & Watson International (Narva) 

Honeywell - Holts 

Ilana Accessories 

Mackay Consolidated 

RSP Automotive & Industrial 

Speciality Automotive Products 


EXPO REVIEW 

Performance Industry Network Together 

As part of the Australian Auto Aftermarket Expo, a networking event was held for 

members of the Performance, Racing and Tuning Council (PRTC). 

The PRTC is one of two special interest 

groups formed by the Australian Automotive 

Aftermarket Association (AAAA), and the council 

is putting the finishing touches on a recent 

survey it held on the motorsport industry. Ben 

Bartlett from the AAAA spoke about the 

importance of this survey at the event, saying 

that a survey of this type had never been 

undertaken in Australia and would give members 

vital insight into the future of the industry. "The 

perception still is that the motorsport industry 

is very small and has little importance to the 

overall automotive industry," Mr Bartlett said. 

"But the figures will show that the motorsport 

industry is a significant employer, and also a 

large scale exporters, predominately to the 

USA." 

Francisque Savinien, who is the Director of 

International Sales and Marketing for 

Performance Racing Industry, also spoke at the 

event. 

Performance Racing Industry runs a 

magazine of the same name, which is up to 500 

pages an issue, along with a trade show in the 

United States of America. Mr Savinien spoke 

about motorsport in America, saying that there 

were 451,000 race participants and 1300 

racetracks in the States. 

He also said that motorsport is the largest 

spectator sport in the country, which is hardly 

surprising when huge crowds can be witnessed 

at NASCAR events. Mr Savinien said there had 

been a tremendous globalisation of the industry 

in the last five years, with a number of 

international mergers and acquisitions. 

The Performance Racing Industry Trade 

Show features 1350 exhibitors and 3900 booths 

from 60 countries over one million square feet. 

About 40,000 trade-only attendees visit the 

show, which takes place this year from 

December 10 to 12 in Orlando, Florida. 

The AAAA will be co-ordinating a National 

Pavilion at the show this year, and if you need 

more information, please contact Ben Bartlett at 

the AAAA National Office on 03 9561 7044. 

TRW reports positive feedback 

As always the Australian Auto Aftermarket Expo provides the 

perfect platform for passing on a brand message and this year 

Australia’s exclusive distributor 

of TRW brake pads, ATAP, reported 

a high level of interest in the 

product. 

The new marketing campaign, 

based around the ‘safety’ 

message, has re-ignited interest in 

good quality brake pads, with more 

awareness of the liability involved 

in fitting an inferior quality 

product. 

Existing trade customers 

reported good feedback from the 

end user, with many reinforcing 

their commitment to the TRW 

brand and the importance of 

safety in automotive components. 

There was also a good level of 

interest from new customers, who 

are keen to put a top quality brake 

pad in their workshop. 

TRW brake pads offer an 

unrivalled performance level for 

normal driving conditions, with a 

stable friction co-efficient from 0- 

650ºC. 

This means that one friction 

material covers most applications, 

was no exception for TRW. 

from the small sedan to the 4WD 

towing a boat or caravan. 

Fitted with noise reducing 

shims and supplied with all 

accessories needed as per the OE, 

TRW brake pads help bring a new 

level of safety to Australian roads. 

For more information on 

TRW brake pads, contact 

ATAP on 03 8369 1300. 


EXPO REVIEW 

AAAA Awards to Industry 

The 2009 Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA) 

Awards to Industry were presented during the Australian Auto 

Aftermarket Expo in Sydney in April. 

The awards recognise excellence in the 

automotive aftermarket and were presented at 

an industry breakfast and a dinner banquet 

over the course of the expo. 

Marketing awards 

Redranger received both the Gold and 

Silver awards for Excellence in Marketing 

(under $10 million annual turnover). 

The Gold was awarded to Redranger’s 

Nolathane brand, while the Silver went to its 

Whiteline brand. 

Nolathane Product Manager, Jason 

Oltmanns, said the company’s marketing 

included staff training, websites and point of 

sale material. 

“Everything we can get a name on, like 

stubby coolers and hats, we will just to 

reinforce the brand,” Mr Oltmanns said. 

“Whiteline is gradually coming up to that 

standard of marketing we have with 

Nolathane, which all has a consistent look and 

feel. 

“Everything on Nolathane you pick up has 

the same message and the same standard of 

information and it’s all red and black.” 

Mr Oltmanns said Redranger was chuffed 

to win both the Gold and Silver awards. 

“Without being too cocky, we did expect to 

win something for Nolathane because we had 

won an award the last time but the Whiteline 

one for us was a shock,” he said. 

“It was the first time we entered Whiteline 

and to pick up the Silver was excellent.” 

KT Cable Accessories won the Bronze 

award in the same category. 

The Excellence in Marketing (over $10 

million annual turnover) Gold award went to 

Monroe Australia, the Silver award to Pedders 

Suspension and Robert Bosch (Australia) 

received the Bronze award. 

Manufacturing awards 

Injectronics Australia was awarded Gold 

for Excellence in Manufacturing (under $10 

million annual turnover). 

The company tests, repairs and remanufactures 

automotive electronic 

components and also received the Bronze 

award for Excellence in Export. 

Injectronics National Sales and Marketing 

Manager, Gino Ricciuti, said the company had 

invested a lot of money into R&D because the 

business was part of a new segment in the 

industry and there is no real competition. 

“Ours is one of the companies that are 

unaffected when the OE sector starts slowing 

down because of the financial crisis,” he said. 

“People keep their cars longer and there 

is no real alternative besides buying a brand 

new part or a second hand one.” 

Mr Ricciuti said the award was recognition 

of the work put in by employees. 

“To receive recognition for your work by 

your industry peers shows that you’re on the 

right track and not just to customers, but 

potential customers,” he said. 

“It reinforces that you’re not only a 

company that is dedicated to what you do but 

you have confidence in your product and 

services as well.” 

Mr Ricciuti attributes a happy working 

environment to part of the success that 

Injectronics has enjoyed. 

“We make it enjoyable for staff and have 

fun by holding things like dress up days,” he 

said. 

“Sometimes you get too wound up 

rewarding people with a financial reward, 

whereas sometimes they are just often after 

the recognition.” 

The Silver award in the category went to 

Autocaps Australia and the Bronze was 

awarded to Black Widow Enterprises. 

Disc Brakes Australia was awarded Gold 

for Excellence in Manufacturing (over $10 

million annual turnover) while the Silver was 

awarded to Nulon Products Australia and 

Monroe Australia received Bronze. 

Export awards 

Don Kyatt Spare Parts was awarded the 

Excellence in Gold for its Flashlube range. 

Marketing Manager, Brett Hutchinson, 

said Flashlube was not feeling the pinch of 

the economic crisis. 

“There’s so much doom and gloom when 

you pick up the paper but our export rate has 

been going at a great rate of knots and it has 

been another excellent month in export 

orders,” he said. 

Don Kyatt General Manager, Jim Dean, 

accepted the award. 

“We were really pleased and proud to pick 

up the award,” he said. 

“We have a size range from 50ml to 20 

litres and everything in between, so we have 

an option for everybody which helps with our 

exporting. 

“We have had great success working with 

AUSTRALIAN AUTO 

AFTERMARKET EXPO AWARDS 

Best New Aftermarket Product (Accessories) 

Joint winners 

Brown & Watson International Pty Ltd 

Narva USB Power Cup 

Rhino-Rack Australia Pty Ltd 

Foxwing Awning 

Best New Aftermarket Product (Chemical) 

Nulon Products Australia Pty Ltd 

100% Synthetic Automatic 

Transmission Fluid 

Best New Aftermarket Product (Parts) 

LED Technologies 

Maxilamp - 3XRADR & 5XRADR 

Best New Aftermarket Product (Performance) 

Pedders Suspension 

Sports Ryder Extreme XA Adjustable 

Coil Over Shock 

Best New Servicing Product 

(Tools & Equipment) 

Launch Tech Pty Ltd 

X-431 Diagun 

Best New Packaging 


Narva Ultima 225 Driving Lamp Pack 

Best Stand 36 sq Metres Under 

LED Auto Lamps 

Best Stand Over 36 sq Metres 

Monroe Australia 

Best Shell Scheme 

King Springworks Pty Ltd 


EXPO REVIEW 

AAAA AWARDS TO INDUSTRY 

Kim Aunger Young Achiever 

Guy Nicholls 

Outstanding Service to Industry 

Ron Pedder 

Hall of Fame 

George Kallinikos 

David Wright 

Excellence in Marketing 

Under $10 Million Annual Turnover 

Gold - Redranger Pty Ltd - Nolathane 

Silver - Redranger Pty Ltd - Whiteline 

Bronze - KT Cable Accessories Pty Ltd 

Excellence in Marketing 

Over $10 Million Annual Turnover 

Gold - Monroe Australia 

Silver - Pedders Suspension 

Bronze - Robert Bosch (Australia) Pty Ltd 

Excellence in Manufacturing 

Under $10 Million Annual Turnover 

Gold - Injectronics Australia Pty Ltd 

Silver - Autocaps Australia Pty Ltd 

Bronze - Black Widow Enterprises P/L 

Excellence in Manufacturing 

Over $10 Million Annual Turnover 

Gold - Disc Brakes Australia 

Silver - Nulon Products Australia Pty Ltd 

Bronze - Monroe Australia 

Excellence in Export 

Gold - Don Kyatt Spare Parts Pty Ltd 

Flashlube 

Silver - Fulcrum Suspensions Pty Ltd 

Bronze - Injectronics Australia Pty Ltd 

Best Print Media Advertisement 

Repco Australia - Weeping Women 

Best Radio Commercial 

Monroe Australia - Just Drive 

Best Retail Catalogue 

Repco Australia - Father’s Day Catalogue 

Best Trade Catalogue 


Narva Automotive Lighting & Electrical 

Catalogue 

Best TV Commercial 

Pedders Suspension - 

Neil’s Surprise Hoist Commercials 

Best Website 

Monroe Australia 

AAAA Awards to Industry - continued 

the Victorian Government and Austrade has 

opened a lot of doors for us.” 

All of the Flashlube products, including 

the Diesel Conditioner, which won Gold for the 

Best New Aftermarket Chemical in 2005, are 

colour coded for easy recognition and the 

company’s brochures and labeling are 

multilingual which goes a long way to help its 

export customers. 

Brisbane based company Fulcrum 

Suspensions received the Silver award for 

Excellence in Export. 

Fulcrum Suspensions was founded in 

1976 and what began as a wheel alignment 

workshop has turned into a company offering 

a range of suspension products for almost any 

vehicle. 

The company exports to more than 40 

countries, exporting its locally made range of 

SuperPro polyurethane bushings to the USA, 

Europe, the Middle East, South Africa, New 

Zealand, the Philippines and Japan. 

Fulcrum’s Adrian Wise attributed its 

distribution network for its exporting success. 

“We’re Australian owned and manufacture 

our products in Australia and there is no one 

else making polyurethane manufacturing in 

Australia,” he said. 

“Our distribution network is fairly simple 

the way we run it and we only deal with trade 

customer accounts. 

“We have really good distributors that have 

experience in the game so they know what 

they are talking about. 

“We don’t pick anyone that doesn’t have 

experience and that’s what makes us stand 

out.” 

Mr Wise said it was also the quality of the 

company’s products which made it a market 

leader. 

“In Australia we do lots of research and 

development and we track test our products,” 

he said. 

Mr Wise said winning the prestigious AAAA 

award would only boost the excellent 

reputation that Fulcrum Suspensions enjoys. 

“It’s always good to be recognised for what 

Adam Gillick displays Pedders' awards for marketing 

excellence and best TV commercial. 

you get up to in the industry and we will now 

have a higher profile,” he believes. 

“The mere fact we’ve got it puts your name 

up there.” 

Individual awards 

GUD Automotives National Sales Manager, 

Guy Nicholls, was named the 2009 Kim 

Aunger Young Achiever. 

Mr Nicholls is a qualified mechanic and 

has worked his way up through the industry to 

achieve the role he has now. 

He said he was honored to receive the 

award. "I've been in the industry for nearly 20 

years; a lot of customers didn't realize I was 

actually under 35 (the award's age limit) so 

maybe I look older that I really am?" he joked. 

Mr Nicholls said he was committed long 

term to the automotive aftermarket and looked 

forward to the future, commenting on how 

important the next generation was to the long 

term future of the aftermarket. 

His comments on his current role: "Ryco 

filters are the number one brand in the 

aftermarket and I plan to grow our market 

share even more; I thoroughly enjoy my job 

and I'm proud to wear the iconic Ryco brand 

on my shirt." 

David Wright, AAAA’s former Executive 

Director, and George Kallinikos from 

Automotive Brands were both inducted to the 

Hall of Fame, while Ron Pedder was given the 

Outstanding Service to Industry award. 

Mr Pedder joined the family company 

Pedders, which was started by his father Roy, 

at the age of 16 and took over the company in 

1972. 

Two years later, he had the company 

designing its own shock absorbers using what 

the company had learnt when it was 

reconditioning shock absorbers. 

Mr Pedder who has had more than 40 years 

in the industry, said one of the most significant 

moves he made for the business was to open 

Pedders stores under franchising. 

“And we’ve got a pretty good reputation for 

our training; we were the first private company 

Darren Jenkin of Bosch with the bronze award for 

marketing excellence over $10 million turnover. 


EXPO REVIEW 

AAAA Awards to Industry - continued 

in Australia to have our own apprenticeship 

system accredited by the government,” he said. 

“Over the years we have got a good 

reputation at being good at what we do but I 

was really surprised to win the award because 

most automotive parts are sold through trade 

distribution chains and we don’t do that. 

“When you look at the two people who were 

inducted into the Hall of Fame, I think there’s 

a lot more deserving people than me but it was 

just fantastic to win the award, it really was.” 

His eldest son Mark is now the Managing 

Director of Pedders, which also won the Best 

TV Commercial award for its ‘Neil’s Surprise 

Hoist’ commercial. 

Other media-related Awards to Industry 

awards included the Best Radio Commercial, 

which was awarded to Monroe Australia for its 

Just Drive ad and Monroe also received the Best 

Website. 

Brown and Watson International was 

awarded the Best Trade Catalogue award for the 

Narva Automotive Lighting and Electrical 

Catalogue, while Repco won the Best Retail 

Catalogue for its Father’s Day Catalogue and 

the Best Print Media Advertisement for its 

Weeping Women campaign. 

Repco Trade Marketing Manager, Grant 

Bidois, said the Weeping Women campaign 

revolved around men’s passion for cars 

outweighing the passion for their partner. 

“It’s great to have some recognition for our 

print ads, along with our Father’s Day 

catalogue, which is a six month cultivation of 

marketing and merchandising,” Mr Bidois said. 

“Not only is it a great catalogue, but it 

worked because we blasted our sales target. 

“It was a 24 page broadsheet and a lot of 

work went into selecting the right offers. 

“Father’s Day is one of our key selling 

periods along with Easter and Christmas and 

the catalogue was supported heavily with TV, 

press and radio ads.” 

Narva catalogue, products recognised 

Narva’s 2008-2010 edition of its Automotive Lighting and Electrical catalogue has 

been recognised in the recent AAAA Awards to Industry Best Trade Catalogue 

category as an outstanding catalogue in the automotive industry. 

With its slogan ‘Safety Through 

Technology’ the latest edition has more than 

4000 items catalogued in full colour with high 

resolution images, comprehensive listings and 

descriptions throughout 376 pages, setting a 

new standard for the industry. 

Narva kept its colour coded product groups 

for the latest catalogue. 

The product groups include Driving and 

Fog Lamps, Emergency Lighting, Globes 

Incandescent and Halogen Globes and Fuses 

and Fuse Accessories. 

The overall design of the Narva catalogue 

has been carefully crafted to meet the needs 

of the automotive industry and is now the 

principle reference guide of lighting and 

electrical products for retailers, trade, original 

equipment manufacturers and industry. 

Narva’s catalogue is used in a broad range 

of market segments including automotive 

wholesalers, auto electricians, motor 

engineers, retailers, 4WD specialists; truck 

manufacturers and fork lift truck specialists. 

As an environmentally conscious company, 

Narva also considered the environmental 

impact in the production of this catalogue 

achieving a reduction in CO2 emissions of 

34,151kg over the previous edition. 

Locally sourced paper was used to make 

the catalogue and it was printed using 

environmentally friendly vegetable-based 

alcohol-free inks. 

The comprehensive Narva catalogue is 

readily available from Narva stockists or Narva 

state offices. 

Narva was also awarded the Best New 

Aftermarket Packaging Award for the new 

Ultima Pack. 

The pack is designed and manufactured in 

Australia and contains two lamps complete 

with protective covers and wiring harness. 

The packaging provides graphic images of 

the light pattern, spread and reach of the 

lights with explanations of the lighting 

technology available including Halogen and 

H.I.D. 

Completing a trifecta of Industry Awards 

for Narva was the Best New Aftermarket 

Product - Accessories. 

Taking this award was the Narva 12 volt 

Power Accessory. 

This versatile accessory is fuse protected 

with L.E.D Indicators, twin USB ports, blue 

illuminated accessory sockets and rated at 

eight amps. 


Brown & Watson International 

Narva USB Power Cup (joint winner) 

Designed for convenient fitment into standard cup holders in 

vehicles. Features fuse protection, LED battery indicators, 

illuminated (blue) accessory sockets and a two-metre spiral 

lead. The twin USB ports are commonly used for electronic items 

such as MP3 players, digital cameras and GPS systems. 


Rhino-Rack Australia – Foxwing Awning (joint winner) 

The patented Foxwing Awning is a brilliantly designed one piece, 

easy to operate swing out awning that will shade the side and 

rear of a vehicle in seconds. Due to its simple one-person 

operation, the FOXWING Awning can be set up and packed down 

in minutes. 

The Foxwing Awning is ideal for camping trips, watching the kids 

play sport, tradesmen or mobile coffee operators. 

Best New Aftermarket Product (Chemical) 

Nulon Products Australia – 

100 Percent Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid 

Nulon's latest 100 percent synthetic technology has combined 

most automatic transmission fluid requirements in one fluid. 

It is suitable for most manufacturer requirements such as Allison 

C-4, Mercon V, JASO 1-A, Dexron III, ATF +4 and many others. 

The full synthetic formulation has improved oxidation stability, 

shear stability, and friction durability to enhance transmission 

shift performance. 

Nulon 100 percent Synthetic Multi-Vehicle Automatic Transmission 

Fluid (SYNATF) is formulated with 100 percent synthetic base fluids 

and advanced additive technology to enhance fluid performance, 

wear protection and transmission durability. 

Nulon 100 percent Synthetic Synatf uses the latest Multi-Vehicle 

Automatic Transmission Fluid technology that is suitable for most 

manufacturer requirements. The fully synthetic formulation has 

improved oxidation stability, shear stability, and friction durability 

to enhance transmission shift performance. 

Best New Aftermarket Product (Performance) 

Pedders Suspension – 

Sports Ryder eXtreme XA Adjustable Coil Over Shock 

The eXtreme XA is a height adjustable coil-over built to Pedders' 

stringent quality standards and is at the forefront of sports 

suspension. Pedders eXtreme XA features sports calibrated 

tuneable damping, motorsport coil springs individually tuned to 

suit each application and a host of other high performance 

features including engineered mounting bracketry. 

The eXtreme XA is the pinnacle of performance suspension 

technology and the flagship of Pedders Sports Ryder range of 

specialist performance suspension products. 


EXPO REVIEW 

Spark plugs prove a winner 

Winning the Bronze award for Marketing Excellence was the highlight 

of this year’s Australian Auto Aftermarket Expo for Bosch. 

Bosch received the Bronze award for 

companies with an annual turnover of more than 

$10 million at the official Australian Automotive 

Aftermarket Association Awards to Industry dinner 

on April 2. 

The award reflects the restructured Bosch 

spark plug program which features three distinct 

levels of product performance and value for 

money. 

The new Bosch program consists of Super 

Plus, Platinum Plus and Fusion spark plugs, all of 

which are now available in high quality blister 

packaging to increase retail appeal. 

Bosch’s Marketing Manager, Rolf Schillinger, 

said the revised Bosch spark plug program was 

the result of significant market research. 

“This award and the growing market 

acceptance of our new three tiered offer 

demonstrates that we are on the right track to 

deliver better value for our customers,” Mr 

Schillinger said. 

And the attendance of more than 8000 people 

over the three days of the Expo gave Bosch the 

opportunity to provide workshops with information 

on how best to make profit. 

It also saw the launch of the new Bosch 

battery range, the new Bosch LPG spark plug 

range and the new Bosch KTS 340 diagnostic 

scan tool. 

All three new products drew a lot of interest 

from attendees, as did the series of profit 

information sessions held at the Bosch stand. 

All the Bosch information and training 

sessions held were focused on providing 

workshops with the knowledge and tools needed 

to become more profitable. 

The sessions on diagnostics in the workshop, 

the servicing of oxygen sensors, market 

developments in ESP and the ease of servicing 

ABS proved to be very popular. 

Bosch will continue to provide workshops with 

crucial knowledge and the tools to be able to 

increase profits within their own businesses 

through publications such as the Bosch Future 

Workshop newspaper, trade magazines, training 

and information sessions. 

Best New Servicing Product 

(Tools & Equipment) 

Launch Tech – X-431 Diagun 

The X-431 Diagun is the new generation of scan tool. 

The auto diagnostic tool features Bluetooth technology 

and wireless communication. Launch Tech says the X- 

431 Diagun is the only diagnostic tool on the market 

which can work on two vehicles at a time. It has a 

16PIN connector, a 1 Gig memory card, fully inherited 

diagnostic functions from the company's X431 model 

and has a greatly improved program running speed. 

Best New Packaging 

Brown & Watson International – 

Narva Ultima 225 Driving Lamp Pack 

Ultima 225 is the culmination of three years research 

and development conducted by Narva in conjunction 

with the Swedish manufacturer of the existing Ultima 

lamps. 

The sleek Skandinavian design incorporates the key 

elements of the Ultima family, combining a striking 

appearance with the latest in high impact materials 

and lighting technology. 

This results in a lamp that is not only stylish, but has 

the strength and performance to suit harsh Australian 

conditions. It is available in standard Halogen, Halogen 

Blue and HID. 


EXPO REVIEW 

New products highlighted 

What made the Brandlines stand so successful at the Australian Auto Aftermarket Expo was not just the range of Gabriel shocks on 

display but the emphasis the company placed on the wide range of new products which created much interest. 

These are from the huge United 

Components Inc (UCI) – one of the USA's 

largest and most diversified parts makers which 

boasts global manufacturing. 

This aspect to the Brandlines stand 

consisted of four main core lines, including ASC 

Industries which is reportedly is the world's 

largest maker of water pumps, producing more 

than 1300 part numbers. 

Marketed under the ASC and Airtex brands 

as well as private brands, these pumps have 

started to make their presence felt in the 

Australian market. 

The release of the details about the full 

range at the show showed how the company is 

technology driven and offers the attraction of a 

single supplier for the local market. 

Airtex Products is a fuel pumps and related 

products maker marketing under the names 

Airtex, Master and other private brands. 

They sell to OEM as well as aftermarket and 

the release at the Expo resulted in many serious 

inquiries. 

Wells Manufacturing is a leading US 

supplier of engine management components 

with the line-up including sensors, modules, 

solenoids, electronic ignition and emission 

control components. 

This range has significant potential in the 

local market. 

Champion Laboratories is a top filtration 

products specialist with a big USA market share 

in automotive, industrial, agricultural, mining 

and marine. 

It is also the world's largest private label 

filter supplier. 

The established brands are Champ and 

Luber-finer with the latter having acquired 

world-wide recognition for the heavy duty filter 

range. 

"These four core lines were very well 

received at the show and all attracted serious 

attention," Brandlines' Mark Luksich said. 

"Although most people know us for our 

distribution of Gabriel shocks for over 20 years 

along with other lines like the Strongarm 

range, it was good to announce that we are 

Australian agents for the huge UCI group and 

ASC, Airtex, Wells and Champion ranges on show 

at the Brandlines' stand at the Australian Auto 

Aftermarket Expo. 

there are many opportunities for their products 

here. 

"Put simply, we offer potential distributors 

top ranges of OEM quality products from 

globally-leading brands which suit the 

Australian market." 


EXPO REVIEW 

Horsepower pays off 

Independent workshop Horsepower Factory (HPF) 

wins Sachs Masters 2009 competition at the 

Australian Auto Aftermarket Expo. 

Three staff from the independent workshop Horsepower Factory (HPF) 

triumphed at the Sachs Masters 2009 in April. 

The team from Dandenong, in Melbourne’s east, was judged the best 

of 13 teams in the competition, which was held at the Australian Auto 

Aftermarket Expo in Darling Harbour in April. 

Sponsored by the Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association, ZF 

(the parent company of Sachs), Repco, Motospecs, ECP Euro Car Parts 

and TecDoc, it is thought to be the only time based competition for 

automotive technicians in Australia. 

The University of Ballarat and the Wetherill Park College of TAFE also 

played an important part in the competition. 

Grant Petch, who is in charge of the Automotive Department at the 

University of Ballarat, was the head judge for the 2009 Sachs Masters 

Competition. 

He explained that competitors were required to pick up any faults 

with the car they were working on, including screws in tyres and twisted 

seat belts. 

“And it basically covered all big bits of repair and diagnostics,” he 

said. 

“We’re looking for perfection where the outstanding technician will 

find these things.” 

The winning team was made up of HPF co-owner Ian Weightman and 

technicians/tuners Martin Rogerson, who has worked at the company for 

15 years, and Paul Farrell, who has worked at HPF for two years. 

Mr Weightman thanked Sachs for sponsoring the competition and 

said Mr Rogerson and Mr Farrell were fantastic mechanics. 

“I thought I had the best two mechanics on the planet, now I know I 

have,” he said. 

Mr Weightman said the $15,000 prize money would be split four ways 

between the team and co-owner Robert Vickery. 

Peter Duncan, who is the Managing Director of ZF Australia Pacific, 

said he worked his way up to the job starting with a trade job in the 

automotive industry. 

“In my days as a mechanic, I would have loved to have a competition 

like this,” he said. 

Pictured with SACHS Masters promotional models (L-R) V8Supercar Driver Jason 

Richards, HPF: Martin Rogerson, Ian Weightman, Paul Farrell, ZF Australia Pacific 

Managing Director Peter Duncan. 

THE WINNERS: 

2009 Sachs Champions – HPF (Horse Power Factory) – VIC 

Ian Weightman, Martin Rogerson and Paul Farrell First Prize $15,000 

2009 Motospecs Prize for Outstanding Achievement 

Team Gordon – VIC Prize – Ferodo Factory Tour in Thailand. 

Richard Johnnson, Andrew Kuppen and Andrew Thomas 

2009 Sachs Masters Runners-Up Prize – 12 month AutoTech Subscriptions 

The Mechanix – NSW – Scott Manning, Dominic Langiewicz and Mitch Madden 

Prestige Auto Traders NSW – Kevin Thai, Ashley Gilham and Nathan Klemich 

“We (ZF) want to give back to the industry and this is the best vehicle 

in trying to do that.” 

Mr Duncan was impressed with the way the teams handled 

themselves. 

“You are such an important part of the industry and are a credit to 

your companies,” he told the teams. 

Mr Duncan said as cars become more technical, it was extremely 

important to ensure technicians had the right skill levels. 

Fellow Victorian competitor, Team Gordon, was awarded the 2009 

Motospecs Prize for Outstanding Achievement. 

The team was made up of Richard Johnson from the Gordon Institute 

of TAFE, Andrew Kuppen who works at the Ford Proving Ground and 

Andrew Thomas from Mawson Motors. 

For their efforts, the three team members who are all from the 

Geelong area received a four day trip to Thailand, where they will tour the 

Ferodo Factory where ThermoQuiet is made. 

Pictured with SACHS Masters promotional models (L-R) V8Supercar Driver Jason 

Richards, Team Gordon: Andrew Kuppen, Richard Johnson, Andrew Thomas, 

Motospecs General Manager Mark Sookias. 


EXPO REVIEW 

With the support of Bosch, PBR now has access to a much broader 

product range, which will benefit brake specialists and generalist 

workshops alike. 

The recent Australian Auto Aftermarket Expo saw the launch of the 

new PBR and Bosch joint brake offer. 

This is the first time both brands have appeared together, with the full 

range of brake products on display. 

The DR09 disc drum and rotor catalogue was available for the first 

time, showcasing the brand new PBR brake drum program as well as the 

new range of slotted disc rotors. 

The new H09 hydraulic brake parts catalogue was also on show, 

supporting a significant expansion on PBR brake cylinders and repair kits. 

All of the new products, including DOT 5.1 brake fluid, caliper slide 

grease and caliper assembly fluid generated a lot of interest. 

Featured on the PBR stand was the expanded range of Bosch brake 

products. 

This included the re-engineered disc pad program and the new brake 

shoe range. 

The Bosch ABS program was also exhibited, with a range of wheel 

speed sensors and ABS ECUs now available to the aftermarket. 

This program highlights a profit opportunity for workshops in now being 

able to easily service ABS brake systems. 

Now, more than ever, PBR is in a strong position to help you generate 

more profit from your brake business. 

PBR – your first choice in brake 

PBR has undertaken a change in direction, with a stronger focus on workshops and brake specialists 

and significant expansions within its product range. 

Your chance for more customers 

New web-based company Fixed Price Car Service was launched 

during the week of the Australian Auto Aftermarket Expo, 

with the company also exhibiting at the Expo. 

The interest the company received from workshops and suppliers at the Expo 

exceeded Fixed Price Car Service's expectations as it prepares to start marketing 

its website to consumers. 

Fixed Price Car Service is the only commerce enabled car service booking 

engine online. It's rare to find a major industry that still requires the consumer to 

pick up the telephone to make a booking. 

Consumers have become so accustomed to purchasing accommodation, flights 

and concert tickets over the internet, but until Fixed Price Car Service there was 

no similar online booking service for consumers needing a mechanic. 

The site works by allowing consumers to input their make, model, version, 

service kilometres and postcode. The results will list local registered workshops 

and service centres displaying a fixed price based on the scheduled service 

selected. The service costs are dynamically calculated using the individual 

workshop's preferred labour rate and commission on parts. 

The customer then chooses a workshop based on price, location and preference 

and completes the booking process online. 

It is an industry first giving consumers convenience and choice and ultimately 

will drive new business to workshops. 

So the question is, how does this affect the aftermarket industry and more 

specifically your business? If you're looking for more work and find that the local 

paper isn't as effective as it used to be, maybe you should check out 

fixedpricecarservice.com.au. 

It's the only online car servicing website that's free to register and doesn't cost 

you a cent unless new consumers start booking 'real jobs'. 

For more information about Fixed Price Car Service or to register your workshop, go to 

fixedpricecarservice.com.au or call 1300 655 661 for more information and assistance. 

With a complete program, widest range and expert service and advice 

it’s time to make PBR your first choice in brake. 

For more information on any product in the PBR or Bosch brake range 

contact PBR Customer Service on 1300 369 727. 


EXPO REVIEW 

Bainbridge Technologies General Manager, 

Andrew Smith, said the Expo had given the 

company an opportunity to launch its new 

range of BAINTECH DC Power Sockets. 

“With the large of numbers of dealers and 

other automotive industry specialists we 

thought the AAA Expo would be the perfect 

event to unveil our newest range of products, 

our BAINTECH DC Power Sockets,” he said. 

“The response we got about the new range 

Expo leads to success 

Bainbridge Technologies is enjoying supercharged success after exhibiting its range of new and improved 

BAINTECH products at the Australian Auto Aftermarket Expo in April. 

was great and we’re happy we also received a 

similarly response for our other BAINTECH 

products include the Volt and Amp Digital 

LCD Meters, Dual Battery Control Kits and 

DC Fuse Blocks. 

“Many BAINTECH orders were placed 

over the three expo days and many of those 

were made by dealers we hadn’t met 

previously, which was an excellent step 

forward for us.” 

Mr Smith said he had expected a positive 

response for the Power Sockets as he 

believed the products were versatile and easy 

to install. 

“Our BAINTECH DC Power Sockets can 

be used to charge or power many things 

including mobile phones, fridges, lights or a 

GPS system, from the comfort of one’s 

vehicle,” he said. 

“Installation is quick and easy too, whether 

the end user chooses to do it themselves or get 

their auto electrician to do the job. 

“Another plus is that the range includes 

such a variety of sockets in various sizes and 

duplicities, and with different mount 

features.” 

The range includes a Dual Cigarette 

Lighter Socket, Dual Merit Cigarette Lighter 

Socket, Dual Engel Fridge Socket, Dual Ttype 

(Clipsal) Socket, and combinations of 

both Engel and Cigarette Sockets. 

“All dual sockets are also available in a 

single socket option, and all sockets come 

with a flush mount or surface mount,” Mr 

Smith explained. 

“Plus all socket mount housings are made 

from high grade PVC, which means they can 

be used in extreme temperatures and marine 

grade environments in any vehicle.” 

For further information about Bainbridge 

Technology’s BAINTECH or other products 

call 1300 BAINTECH (1300 224 683) 

or visit www.baintech.com.au 


EXPO REVIEW 

Imparts to distribute Dual Mass Flywheel 

Imparts announced at the recent AAA Expo that it is now 

distributing the LuK Dual Mass Flywheel. 

Imparts received extremely positive feedback 

from its customers at the Expo, who were pleased 

that they now have an easy way to access these 

impressive parts. 

The LuK DMF meets the ever-increasing 

demands for driving comfort by absorbing 

undesirable engine vibration. A dual mass 

flywheel consists of two masses, which can rotate 

against each other. An arc spring damping system 

is integrated into the dual mass flywheel, which 

enables the DMF to absorb and practically 

neutralize the torsional vibration of the engine. 

The DMF, like the clutch itself, is subject to 

normal wear and tear and may require 

replacement. With its range of approximately 250 

different types, LuK covers almost the entire DMF 

aftermarket market. 

Imparts recommends the LuK DMF for the 

following reasons: 

• The dual mass flywheel is part of the vehicle's 

original equipment and therefore the 

powertrain and engine electronics are carefully 

attuned to its characteristics; 

• Without a properly functioning DMF, vibration 

can damage the drivetrain as the DMF acts as 

a breaker between the engine and 

transmission; 

• A LuK DMF can provide effective vibration and 

acoustic insulation, improved driving comfort 

by relieving crankshaft and transmission 

vibrations, and increased fuel efficiency; 

• Some other products and replacement kits do 

not comply with the manufacturers 

specifications. The rigid flywheel used in these 

kits does not increase the transmission's mass 

moment of inertia. In addition, the damping 

capacity of the corresponding clutch disk is 

significantly lower than that of a DMF, which 

can lead to gearbox rattle and vibration 

induced damage to the power train. 

• The garage can be held fully responsible for 

any customer warranty claims arising from 

damage due to the installation of inadequate 

replacement kits. 

EXPO STAND REVIEW 

A well-illustrated 28-page brochure, and 

technical DVD explaining the benefits of the LuK 

DMF are available from Imparts. The brochure 

explains in detail the design and functioning 

principle of the DMF as well as the design 

differences between each DMF generation. In 

addition, it describes damage patterns and 

suggests remedial measures. The DVD has similar 

information and is especially suited for training 

purposes. 

For further information please contact 

Imparts on 1300 467 278 or 

email sales@imparts.com.au 


EXPO STAND REVIEW 


SS INDUCTIONS FEATURE 

NO BLING, ALL ZING 

SS INDUCTIONS HAS REMAINED A MARKET LEADER BY STEERING CLEAR OF FLASHY 

AESTHETICS AND FOCUSING ON QUALITY AND PRODUCT PERFORMANCE INSTEAD. 

Family owned company SS Inductions has been helping cars ‘breathe’ easier since 1990. 

Kevin Hoverd is the Director and 

Designer for SS Inductions, which started 

when his father suggested he turn the 

air cleaner in his car upside down. 

That one suggestion has grown into 

a successful company, which makes cold 

air induction systems under the 

reputable brand names of Big Mouth, 

Growler and OTR. 

Mr Hoverd and wife Kaye Shirkey aim 

the systems at the mum and dad market, 

which has paid dividends for the 

Queensland-based company. 

“It’s about keeping that OE look 

instead of going for that bling look,” Mr 

Hoverd explained. 

“Some people do ask us for carbon 

fibre products or the polished alloy look 

but I’ve always resisted that to stay with 

the plastic OE look because we have 

found there are more people that want 

the performance but want to retain that 

factory look about their car.” 

And the SS Inductions systems not 

only help performance, but also the fuel 

economy of a vehicle, which is a definite 

selling point in that mum and dad 

market. 

Mrs Shirkey explained that the fuel 

economy side of the product has gone a 

Kevin Hoverd, Director and Designer for SS Inductions 

and his wife Kaye Shirkey 

long way in terms of demand for the 

products. 

“We get lots of inquiries, especially 

from people with six cylinder cars,” she 

said. 

“Many people think it’s just people 

with V8s that want to enhance their car 

but there’s a lot of six cylinder drivers 

that want fuel economy too so that’s also 

a big market. 

“The fuel economy side is definitely a 

big thing for the future.” 

Mr Hoverd is originally from New 

Zealand and is a qualified motor 

mechanic and engineer. 

He had aspirations of becoming a Ford 

representative but his business, which he 

started from his garage at home, became 

so successful that he concentrated on it 

instead. 

“It was hard at first because I’d never 

had anything to do with modeling but it 

was really quite simple once I put my 

head to it,” Mr Hoverd explained. 

“When we started SS Inductions there 

were many, many late hours involved and 

there is always a problem of getting hold 

of cars.” 

Mr Hoverd said SS Inductions has to 

keep up with products for the new car 

models, such as the FG Falcon and that 

part of the business was still challenging. 

“We are lucky to have a good 

relationship with some Ford and Holden 

dealerships but other than dealerships, or 

hiring cars we also have customers who 

give us the cars,” he said. 

“They say ‘we want a product’ and we 

say ‘well can we use your car?’” 

One of the other challenges of the 

business when it started was educating 

customers, as Mrs Shirkey explained: 

“When we started, cold air induction 

wasn’t really heard of, even though it’s 

standard on every car, and we had to 

really educate the market on what a cold 

air actually was and how easy it is to bolt 

on and get a benefit,” she said. 

“So that was our initial challenge 

whereas now we’ve educated the market 

and we now have the challenge of 

competitors and other people doing it. 

Mr Hoverd said the systems are 

designed using CAD, and there is 

stringent testing before a product goes 

on the market. 

“Most of our stuff is done by CAD; we 

have a company I spend many hours 

with going through things,” he said. 

“I go to them with sketches and my 

Ford FG Growler, Throttle Body, 

Computer Cover and Engine Cover 


SS INDUCTIONS FEATURE 

Holden VE V8 Growler and Intake Y Pipe Holden VE V8 OTR Growler Kit 

own thoughts and they take it out of my 

brain and put it on paper.” 

And adopting the good, better, best 

model has also gone a long way in 

ensuring every customer who wants the 

benefits of better car performance and 

fuel economy can afford it. 

The Big Mouth range is the base 

product range as it uses the factory 

airbox while the Growler range is a 

replacement airbox system. 

But even though the Big Mouth 

systems are the base range, Mrs Shirkey 

said the system performs better than 

factory systems. 

“They are a step up from the factory 

system so there are still benefits of using 

a cheaper type of unit and not spending 

as much money,” she said. 

The Growler range uses a high-flow 

inverted pod filter for greater power 

and torque gains and is sold to a diverse 

range of companies including a special 

unit for Walkinshaw Performance. 

The OTR Growler is an over the 

radiator system and while designed 

primarily for track use appeals to a wide 

market. 

SS Inductions’ range covers high 

volume Ford and Holdens from 1990 

onwards, Suzuki Swift, Subaru WRX and 

the Hyundai Accent. 

“But by far we focus on Ford and 

Holden because that’s where we see the 

current sales and where future interest 

lies,” Mrs Hoverd said. 

Three years ago the company moved 

from rented premise to their own 

purpose-built factory complex with 

prime exposure from the M1 freeway 

between Brisbane and the Gold Coast – a 

far cry from the garage the company 

started in. 

It was a move, the couple agree, that 

was one of the best business decisions 

they have made for one because it 

provides free marketing and advertising. 

They say ‘we want a product’ 

and we say ‘well can we 

use your car?’ 

Perhaps the worst was their company 

name SS Inductions, the ‘SS’ of which 

was shortened from Superior Sports but 

which is still mistaken for the ‘SS’ in the 

Holden Commodore range. 

“Even today, too many people say ‘we 

didn’t know you work on Fords’,” Mr 

Hoverd said. 

“Even down to the stickers on 

inductions, Ford drivers don’t like an SS 

sticker under their bonnet so we’ve 

changed all our stickers top Growler or 

Big Mouth and that’s worked well for 

us.” 

SS Inductions designed products for 

the John Bowe performance range, and 

has been recently commissioned by 

Walkinshaw Performance to design an 

engine cover for their supercharged VE. 

They are also the official induction 

supplier for the V8 Ute Racing series. 

All this is managed by the husband 

and wife team with marketing 

consultant Max Bonner and Cayne 

Petersen, who works in warehousing. 

“We make an excellent team,” Mr 

Hoverd said. 

“We are only a team of four but we 

do long hours and we work hard and get 

into it together.” 

SS Inductions will sell to people who 

walk in off the street, but the company 

has an extensive range of distributors, 

which is focused on both exhaust shops 

and retail stores including Repco, 

Autobarn and Supercheap Auto. 

There is also a New Zealand 

distributor and the company exports to 

South Africa and the Middle East, but 

the range is proudly made in Australia. 

“A lot of people ask why we don’t 

manufacture overseas,” Mr Hoverd said. 

“We used to have products made in 

New Zealand but when there was a 

change with Ford or Holden it was a 

problem to get that change done quickly 

so now everything’s local.” 

Mrs Shirkey said customers also 

appreciated the quality of a locally made 

product. 

“One of our successes has been the 

quality of our product,” she said. 

“We go for the factory look, the OE 

look and if you start to get things from 

overseas you get different plastics and 

things that don’t look the same and you 

haven’t got the same control.” 

Mr Hoverd agrees. “The margins are 

better getting things made overseas, but 

it’s not always about the margins,” he 

said. “You need a quality product.” 

Mr Hoverd plans to expand the SS 

Inductions range to include 4WDs. 

“My belief is your foundations have 

got to be strong before you build the 

highrise,” he said. 

“We’ve got solid foundations and we 

are starting to build the high rise.” 


PARTS 

The company INA was founded in 1946. 

Vehicle manufacturers throughout the world rely 

on application solutions developed by the 

German company. INA is a partner of both the 

original equipment and the aftermarket sales 

businesses for passenger cars and commercial 

vehicles. 

INA is the market leader in supplying belt 

drive components to car manufacturers. In 

addition, INA is the worldwide technology 

leader in designing and manufacturing auto belt 

tensioning units for the accessory drive. With 

its comprehensive product range of more than 

1200 single belt tensioners and idlers, INA belt 

drive components are available for more than 

10,000 different vehicle applications. 

Schaeffler Automotive Aftermarket supplies 

the independent automotive aftermarket with 

original equipment parts for passenger cars, 

light commercial vehicles, trucks, busses and 

agricultural tractors. The product range for 

passenger cars comprises of a large variety of 

INA belt drive single components, sets and kits. 

While the kit contains the belt and the 

according tensioners and idlers, the set comes 

without the belt. 

Belt Drive Components 

INA – The brand of choice for engine parts 

The Schaeffler Group and its brands LuK, INA and FAG stand for pronounced customer 

orientation, innovative force and maximum quality. 

Belt drive systems in motor vehicles have to 

cope with ever growing tasks and loads. Stateof-the-art 

engines – particularly diesel engines 

– generate extreme torques of up to 400Nm. 

Toothed belts, tension rollers and idlers must 

ensure reliable transmission of this force – 

throughout the entire service life of the vehicle. 

There are two different types of 

timing belt tensioners – 

manual and automatic belt 

tensioners. For manual belt 

tensioning units, the correct 

belt tension at ambient 

temperature is set manually 

according to the specifications 

of the manufacturer and needs 

to be checked in the specified 

service intervals and adjusted 

if required. Automatictensioning 

units tighten the 

belt automatically during 

installation. An internal set of 

springs ensures that the belt 

tension remains almost 

unchanged throughout the entire 

service life by self-adjusting to 

temperature and load changes. Another benefit 

of an automatic tensioning unit is its ability to 

damp out belt vibration under all operating 

conditions of the belt drive. As a result, the belt 

tension can remain very low thus reducing noise 

emission whilst increasing service life. Things 

have also changed for the auxiliary drive. 

Whereas in the past only the alternator had to 

be driven, the accessory drive today includes a 

number of components for enhanced comfort, 

such as power steering pump or A/C 

compressor. Here, too, tension rollers and idler 

play a major role. 

Tension rollers and idlers are used for both 

the timing and accessory drives. Tension rollers 

transmit the force from the belt tensioner to the 

belt, thus ensuring constant belt tension. Idlers 

are used to change the belt 

routing according to the 

existing front-end accessories 

or serve to stabilise the belt 

and to eliminate belt 

vibration in excessive strand 

lengths. Tension rollers and 

idlers consist of a steel or 

plastic pulley with integral 

single or double row deep 

groove ball bearing. The 

running surface can be either 

smooth or grooved. After 

mounting the roller, a 

protective plastic cover is 

snapped on the unit. Formed 

covers made of steel may also be 

used to protect the idler bearing. These are 

bolted to the idler. 

Benefits/advantages of tension rollers and 

idlers: 

• Ensure precise routing of the belt; 

• Allow for individually designed and 

optimised belt drive layout; 

• Are matched to the specific application; 

• Reduced grease loss; 

• Reduced noise emission during operation; 

• Resistant to temperature and environmental 

influences; 

• Knurlings ensure positive engagement 

between outer ring and plastic running 

pulley. 

For further information please 

contact 02 8977 1038 or 

email INA-AS.au@Schaeffler.com 

Narva's new ignition switch range covers all 

Building steadily on its ever-increasing switch range, Narva has released an all new series 

of ignition switches covering petrol, diesel and marine applications. 

From the standard On/Off Ignition to five position 

diesel ignition with pre-heat, the new switches fill both 

universal and special applications such 

as International Trucks and Massey 

Ferguson tractors. 

Marine applications have 

also been covered in three 

and four position switches 

with one including a push for 

choke function. The three 

position marine switch is 

constructed of corrosion-proof 

plastic with brass screw terminals 

and supplied with encapsulated keys whilst the four position unit is 

constructed in heavy duty brass with screw terminals. 

The premium Diesel Ignition Switch has five positions with a preheat 

function. It is manufactured in corrosion-proof plastic with push 

on terminals and supplied with two encapsulated keys. When not 

in use the key entry is covered with a special spring loaded cap to 

prevent the entry of water and dust into the switch mechanism. 

This heavy-duty switch is rated at 12V 8A; 35A ignition; 60A Pre- 

Heat and 60A Start. 

The all-new Narva ignition switches are available from leading 

automotive and transport outlets throughout Australia. 

For more information visit www.narva.com.au or call 03 9730 6000. 


PARTS 

Repco adds complete 

cylinder heads to its range 

Repco is now offering fully assembled complete 

cylinder heads translating to benefits all round, 

such as reduced order time, more workshop 

space and faster customer service. 

These complete cylinder heads, manufactured by leading supplier Kiwi 

Cylinder Heads, are now available to the Australian automotive aftermarket 

from Repco and provide a total one-stop solution for major engine repair jobs. 

Kiwi Cylinder Heads complete cylinder heads from Repco provide three key 

advantages for Repco's workshop based customers - Repairers are able to 

source (from their local Repco store), a complete package of the components 

required to replace a failed cylinder head. A single Repco order is all that it 

takes to source quality, matched parts for complete cylinder head replacements, 

including gaskets and head bolts. This translates to a significantly reduced 

ordering time for the repairer, while valuable workshop space is not occupied 

by immobile vehicles waiting for parts to be located and fitted. 

It also results in a faster customer turnaround time. Busy commercial 

vehicle operators, who are the most regular of cylinder head replacement 

customers, can get back to the road in the fastest time possible. 

All Kiwi complete cylinder head components are new, ensuring long wearing 

quality, supported by a 12 month or 20,000km warranty. Such quality control 

ensures that the cylinder head will perform as originally designed, without the 

uncertainty of using old and second hand parts, as is so often the case with 

cylinder head replacements. 

Repco presents automotive repairers and their customers with a real 

opportunity to increase efficiency, profitability and customer satisfaction, with 

the new range of Kiwi complete cylinder heads. 

New Nason Timing Catalogue 

Nason Engine Parts has released a new 

2009 Timing Components catalogue. 

This 150-page publication covers a 

very broad range of Australian, Japanese 

and US vehicles. 

All timing components are covered: 

belts, seal kits, gaskets, chains, 

tensioners, idlers, guides, gears, 

sprockets, etc. 

It is extremely user-friendly with all 

vehicles listed by make alphabetically 

with models and engines clearly set out 

by type and description. Tensioner and 

idler part numbers are backed with clear 

identification photographs. 

The catalogue is available by phoning Nason Engine Parts on 1300 662 766. 


PARTS 

Bendix introduces its new Triple Tested Brake Shoes 

Bendix has launched a new generation of brake shoes, incorporating the latest technical know-how. 

Driven by excellence and innovation, Bendix has a wide range of products designed to 

provide superior safety and braking performance. 

Bendix makes the extra effort to test all of 

their brake shoes and brake pads in Australia. 

And they are not just tested. Bendix has a Triple 

Tested system for their Brake Shoe range to 

ensure noise and dust reduction, lifespan and 

pure stopping power. 

Unlike other brake manufacturers, 

having a state of-the-art Triple 

Testing facility in Victoria's North 

West has enabled real-time 

product development and rigorous 

testing for the entire Bendix 

range. With its unmatched ability 

to produce a range of 

groundbreaking products designed 

for maximum performance, 

efficiency, cost effectiveness and 

safety, it's easy to see 

why Bendix is 

Australia's most 

recognised and trusted 

aftermarket brake 

supplier. The brake shoe 

range fully benefits from the Bendix 

technical innovations and the Triple Testing 

procedure. 

New Technology 

The new Bendix Brake Shoe technology has 

resulted in an advanced bond between the 

lining and the shoe platform. The superior 

strength bonding delivers enhanced durability 

under tough driving conditions. The new semi 

metallic formulation extends the life of the 

drum and lining and improves stopping power, 

ensuring premium quality and performance. 

Test One – Stopping Power 

The first test Bendix Brake 

Shoes must pass is a 

Friction Stability test. 

The brakes are tested at 

extreme heat to the 

equivalent of 5km 

downhill driving, in 

frequent and sudden 

stopping driving 

conditions. Bendix Brake 

Shoes not only pass the 

test, they are FF rated with a 

stable friction performance of 

0.39 to 0.42 even at 300°C. The test 

found that Bendix Brake Shoes are a 

safe bet for pure stopping power. 

Test Two – Noise and Dust Management 

The new Bendix Brake Shoes were tested on 

Australian roads against a leading competitor 

and they were found to make a lot less noise 

than a leading competitor. The test conducted 

was B8E6-170, based on the percentage of 

stops over 70dB. In similar tests, Bendix was 

proven to be superior in stopping dust as well as 

stopping vehicles. 

Test Three – Strength and Durability 

The toughness of the Bendix Brake Shoes 

was rigorously tested under the strict ISO 6312 

test. This test ascertains bonding strength. 

Bendix Brake Shoes exceeded the shear 

strength requirements of ECE Regulation 90, 

the European standard. A longer lifespan in 

drum and lining was determined in the new and 

improved Bendix Brake Shoes. They scored the 

equivalent of OE with superior friction material 

and quality metal shoes. 

Triple Tested so you can be 

three times as confident 

Knowing that Bendix goes the extra mile 

to Triple Test their brakes in Australia is 

reassuring for aftermarket sales. You know 

exactly what you're getting; brakes that are 

thoroughly developed and tested for 

Australian driving conditions. The Bendix 

commitment to excellence in innovation has 

resulted in technically advanced, reliable 

brake shoes. So you can stop your search for 

the right aftermarket brake shoes with 

Bendix. 

For further information visit www.bendix.com.au 

or phone the Brake Advice Centre 1088 819 666 

Hydraulic Power 

How good is this, compact and powerful the mini hydraulic power pack from 

Norden Hydraulic Connections has endless potential in the automotive market. 

The mini hydraulic power pack was 

designed with the view of actuating 

components in the automotive industry 

with out the hassle and problems 

associated with vacuum and pneumatic 

powered force. This compact unit is 

successfully being used on boot lids, 

doors, toneau covers and retracting soft 

tops just to mention a few. 

The advantage of hydraulic oil 

powered power pack is it will give you a 

smooth and controlled speed and a force 

that will far out way any vacuum and pneumatic powered units used in 

the past. 

Straight out of the box the Power Gear Mini Power Pack will 

accommodate one to four hydraulic cylinders that are actuated in both 

directions and available in three 

convenient sizes. The built-in pilot 

operated check valves prevent cylinder 

crepe when operated over the centre 

point (90Deg) of its travel. Complete 

with hoses and oil the compact Mini 

Hydraulics Power Pack is ready to go. 

For more information on this unique 

little package give Norden a call and 

speak to one of the friendly sales staff 

who would be more than happy to 

answer any questions you may have on 

the Mini Hydraulic Power Pack or any of their Fluid conveying products. 

Contact Norden Hyraulic Connections at email hydraulic@norden.com.au 

or ph 03 9793 2515 


PARTS 

New applications for 

Gates DriveAlign 

tensioners and idlers 

Gates Australia has released 

18 additional applications for its 

DriveAlign tensioner and idler range. 

These new applications include the popular Ford 

Focus, Nissan Pulsar, Mitsubishi Magna, Toyota Corolla 

and Toyota Landcruiser. 

Do the right thing when servicing your customer's 

vehicles and prevent them from being stranded on the 

side of the road. Avoid comebacks by using Gates 

DriveAlign products. 

Gates DriveAlign products are safe and reliable, at 

an affordable price compared to OE parts. 

Australian conditions are unforgiving on the drive 

belt system, and can lead to premature belt failure. 

Gates recommends that you change the drive belt 

tensioner with every belt change. 

When it comes to noise under the bonnet, no part 

takes as much blame as the accessory belt drive. It is 

often incorrectly assumed that the serpentine belt is the 

problem, so a new belt is installed and the problem is 

considered fixed. This is only a temporary fix. In 

addition to replacing the belt the technician should 

investigate the root cause, which may be the automatic 

tensioner or idlers. 

For additional information about Gates DriveAlign 

tensioners and idler pulleys please visit the Gates 

website (www.gatesaustralia.com.au), contact your 

nearest stockist or call Gates Customer Service on 

03 9797 9688. 

Gas it up with Struts Australia 

Struts Australia is one of the biggest strut suppliers in 

Australia and carries the largest range of gas struts for 

automotive applications, including boots and tailgates, 

in its premises based in Laverton, Victoria. 

The state-of-the-art warehouse 

facilities, including the showroom, was 

designed to ensure its customers receive 

the highest quality products, and the 

quickest lead times while enjoying 

excellent service. 

Additionally, it carries a massive range 

of truck, bus and trailer hardware allowing 

it to offer its customers the largest range of 

products at very competitive prices. It 

offers a friendly professional service and 

can provide assistance in application 

design and solutions. 

Furthermore, due to its large range of 

stock holdings, it has the ability and 

flexibility to respond to customer demands 

that are made possible by having branches 

and distribution outlets throughout 

Australia. 

Quality is paramount at Struts Australia. 

Its struts are manufactured under ISO/TS 

16949. 

Struts Australia is part of the 

McNaughtans’ group. 

Due to its long-term business 

relationships and large buying power the 

The packaging has been redesigned 

to present a sharper 

image at the retail level and to 

better reflect the exceptional 

quality of the Bosch belt 

range. A feature of the new 

packaging is the inclusion of key 

selling points, which highlight 

this quality. 

New belt merchandisers are 

also available from Bosch, 

enabling your business to display 

30, 40 or 90 belts on a neat, 

compact, eye catching stand, and 

keep the fastest moving belts 

close at hand. Bosch belt racks 

are also available for customers 

to be able to customise their own 

selection of belts, depending on 

their individual business needs. 

McNaughtans’ group is able to purchase 

the highest quality goods, while remaining 

competitive and ensuring its customers 

receive the very best products and services. 

McNaughtans has warehouse facilities 

in all major cities in Australia and South 

Africa and export to many countries around 

the world. 

For more information call 03 9369 8113, 

email strutsaustralia@bigpond.com.au or 

visit www.strutsaustralia.com.au 

New Bosch Drive Belt Packaging 

Bosch has taken another significant step to lift the retail 

appeal of its range of drive belts with the introduction 

of new packaging from May. 

All Bosch drive belts are made to 

Original Equipment specifications. 

They feature pre-stretched 

polyester tension cords, fibre 

reinforced belt backs and stranded 

glass fibre tension cords to ensure 

low maintenance and lateral 

stiffness. They are also highly 

resistant to abrasions, oil, grease, 

water and UV radiation. These 

features provide the highest level 

of protection against engine 

damage. 

For further information on the range 

of Bosch drive belts, please contact 

the Bosch Customer Service Centre 

on 1300 30 70 40 or visit the 

website on www.bosch.com.au 


STEERING & SUSPENSION 

Steering and Suspension with Ray Brown 

Almost by definition, the primary function of any form of mobility is to go, turn and stop. 

Turning the vehicle is the job of the steering 

system but to optimise performance to go, turn 

and stop, it is necessary to maximise the friction 

between the tyres and the road and this is the 

primary role of the suspension. 

In this article we will look at the most common 

types of steering and suspension systems and 

some interesting new developments and 

technologies. 

STEERING 

Basic steering types 

As most of you will know, the most common 

types of steering are the recirculating ball and rack 

and pinion. The rack and pinion type has become 

the most popular type in modern cars so we will 

briefly examine how it works. 

A pinion gear is attached to the steering shaft 

which engages with a rack. When turning the 

steering wheel the pinion rotates, moving the rack 

left or right. The rack is attached to the tie rods 

which in turn are attached to the steering arms 

that steer the wheels. So the rack and pinion 

system does two things, firstly, to convert 

rotational motion of steering shaft to linear motion 

to turn the wheels and, secondly, to use gear 

reduction to make it easier to turn the wheels. 

Taking this further, Arthur E Bishop developed 

a variable ratio rack and pinion, which has a 

different tooth pitch at the centre of the rack than 

at the outside. This improves steering response at 

the start of the turn and reduces steering effort 

when approaching full lock. In variable ratio 

steering racks, the tooth geometry changes and 

therefore the tooth form cannot be produced by 

conventional means (eg cutting or broaching), so 

Bishop developed special forging dies to overcome 

this problem at its Australian based tool room. 

Power-assisted steering 

More recently, power-assisted rack and pinion 

steering has become very popular. A hydraulic 

cylinder is incorporated into the rack tube to assist 

the linear motion of the rack. A hydraulic pump, 

driven from the engine, provides high pressure 

fluid to the cylinder and a rotary valve detects the 

force on the steering wheel by the driver. When 

the vehicle is travelling straight, the driver exerts 

no force on the steering wheel and consequently 

no power assistance is provided. As the driver 

exerts force on the steering wheel during turning, 

the rotary valve directs hydraulic pressure from 

the pump to the cylinder which assists the rack 

to turn the wheels. 

A problem with this simple, conventional 

hydraulic steering system is that the assistance 

level is not adjusted according to vehicle speed. 

The introduction of electronics into vehicles, such 

as engine management systems, meant that 

electronic road speed signal became readily 

available allowing the use of electronically 

controlled hydraulic steering systems. These vary 

steering effort in accordance with road speed and, 

in some cases, other parameters as well. 

But all hydraulic assisted power steering 

systems are inefficient in that the steering pump 

operates continuously. This drains power from the 

engine increasing fuel consumption, reducing 

vehicle performance and increasing emissions, 

compared to a non power steered vehicle. In 

addition, the power steering assistance is only 

available whilst the engine is operating and not 

available if the engine stalls. 

Electric power steering 

Electrically powered hydraulic steering (EPHS) 

systems use an electric motor to drive the 

hydraulic pump rather than having the pump 

driven directly by the engine. This system allows 

the steering effort to be easily controlled by 

varying the speed of the pump and, because flow 

can be better matched to actual requirements the 

power drain is reduced. Further benefits include 

reduced development time and cost and can be 

supplied as a pre-assembled and tested power 

steering module. 

Electric power-assisted steering (EPS) 

completely replaces the hydraulic systems that 

were previously associated with power steering 

thus eliminating the connection between the 

steering system and the engine. The electrical 

drive assistance can be transmitted to the steering 

mechanism by a number of means, either by 

assisting the steering shaft at the steering column, 

the pinion at its entry point to the steering box or 

assisting the rack directly. 

FIG 1: Typical EPS unit (photo courtesy of TRW) 

EPS via an electronic control unit (ECU), 

allows programmable steering dynamic 

characteristics that are not possible with hydraulic 

steering, all of which can be tuned to the 

manufacturer’s preference in a matter of hours 

rather than months. As with other 

electromechanical steering systems, EPS 

consumes power only when steering assist is 

needed and results in an improvement in fuel 

consumption of 4+% and lower emissions. The 

product is delivered as a fully tested, calibrated, 

ready-to-install unit which simplifies vehicle 

assembly and supply chain logistics. The modular 

design assists with design and ‘packaging’ 

flexibility and can be integrated with other vehicle 

systems to create new functionality. 

Looking further to the future, the next possible 

innovation is ‘Steer by 

Wire’ which would 

eliminate any mechanical 

connection between the 

steering wheel and the 

steering mechanism, 

replacing it with a purely electronic control 

system. The steering wheel would look like those 

used in home computer games and would 

eliminate the need for a steering column and 

shaft, potentially increasing occupant protection 

and reducing vibration inside the vehicle. 

SUSPENSION 

Basics 

The functional requirements of a vehicle 

suspension are to maximise the friction between 

tyres and the road surface, to provide steering 

stability with good handling and to ensure the 

comfort of the passengers. Whilst there have been 

enhancements and improvements, the basic 

design of car suspensions has not undergone a 

significant change over the years. In addition the 

combination and permutations of suspension 

types ie dependant/independent, coil/leaf, 

McPherson strut/wishbone etc are outside the 

scope of this article, however the fundamental 

components of suspension and their roles will be 

discussed briefly before embarking on revealing 

some new and exciting innovations. 

The ride and handling characteristics of a 

vehicle requires the optimisation of three basics, 

road isolation, road holding and cornering. Road 

isolation is the vehicles ability to absorb or isolate 

road shock from the passenger compartment. Road 

holding is the degree to which tyres maintain contact 

with the road during directional changes and in a 

straight line. Cornering is the ability of the vehicle to 

travel a curved path by minimising body roll. 

The major components of the suspension 

system are: 

Springs – Absorbs the motion of the car wheels 

being subjected to vertical acceleration as it 

passes over bumps or imperfections in the 

road surface. 

Shock Absorbers – Provides damping of spring 

compression and extension. Without shock 

absorbers the spring would continue to bounce 

at its natural frequency until all energy is 

dissipated making the vehicle almost 

uncontrollable. The shock absorber turns the 

kinetic energy of suspension movement into 

heat energy that is dissipated within the 

hydraulic fluid. 

Anti-Sway bars – also known as anti-roll bars, an 

anti-sway bar spans the entire vehicle such 

that when one wheel moves up and down, the 

bar transfers movement to the other wheel. 

Continued page 66 



Steering and 

Suspension with 

Ray Brown continued 

This creates a more level ride, reduces sway 

and combats body roll of the car as it corners. 

Bushings – are used at the ‘pivot’ points of relative 

rotation between suspension parts to isolate 

noise and vibration. These are usually rubber 

and can introduce an element of ‘play’ under 

harsh loading conditions and therefore a 

popular aftermarket upgrade is to replace 

these with harder materials such as 

polyurethane. 

Active and semi-active suspensions 

In recent years, there has been strong interest 

in Semi-active and Active suspension systems. 

Semi-active systems change the viscous 

damping coefficient of the shock absorber 

generally using a solenoid valve which alters the 

flow of the hydraulic medium inside the shock 

absorber. The solenoids are wired to an Electronic 

Control Unit (ECU) which sends commands 

dependant on the control algorithm. Semi-active 

suspensions are less expensive to design, 

consume less energy and, in recent times, 

research has continued to advance, narrowing the 

gap between semi-active and fully active 

suspension systems. 

Active suspension controls the vertical 

movement of wheels via an on-board system, rather 

than the movement being determined entirely by 

the road surface. This system virtually eliminates 

body roll and pitch during cornering, accelerating 

and braking. The suspension is controlled by 

hydraulic or pneumatic servomechanisms with 

pressure to the servos provided by a high pressure 

pump. Sensors continually monitor body 

movement and ride level constantly supplying a 

computer with data which operates the servos 

mounted beside each wheel. Almost instantly, the 

servo regulated suspension generates counter 

forces to body lean, dive and squat. The drawbacks 

of this design are high cost and added complexity 

of parts needed for operation and thus are only 

available on premium luxury vehicles. 

FIG 2: Active Suspension Electronic Shock Absorbers 

(photo courtesy of Continental AG) 

Electromagnetic active suspension 

Bose Corporation – yes the sound system 

company – has developed an active suspension 

using Linear Electromagnetic Motors attached to 

each wheel independently allowing for extremely 

fast response and regeneration of power used 

through utilising the motors as generators. This 

system comes close to overcoming the issues of 

hydraulic systems with their slow response times 

and high power consumption. Inside the linear 

electromagnetic motors are magnets and coils of 

wire, which, when electrical power is applied, 

retracts or extends, creating motion between the 

wheel and body. A power amplifier delivers 

electrical power to the motors in response to 

signals from the control algorithms. The 

regenerative power amplifiers allow power to flow 

to the electromagnetic motors and also allow 

power to be returned from the motor. For 

example when the Bose suspension encounters a 

pothole, power is used to extend the motor and 

isolate the vehicles occupants from the 

disturbance. On the far side of the pothole, the 

motor operates as a generator and returns power 

to the amplifier. Control algorithms operate by 

observing sensor measurements taken from 

around the vehicle and sending commands to the 

power amplifiers installed in each corner of the 

vehicle. 

FIG 3: Electromagnetic Suspension System Schematic 

(photo courtesy of Bose Corp.) 

Kinetic dynamic system 

Another simpler innovation was invented and 

developed by Kinetic Pty Ltd. a small R&D 

company from Western Australia which has sold 

this technology to Toyota for inclusion in their 

LandCruiser/Lexus products. Identified as KDSS 

– Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System it has 

specific application in SUV vehicles to maintain 

equal wheel loading when traversing uneven road 

conditions. KDSS retains conventional bounce 

and damping methods and works by splitting the 

anti-roll bars using a simple cradle device 

incorporating double acting hydraulic cylinders. 

This arrangement passively frees the bars to 

allow articulation and single wheel type 

movements but will not permit vehicle body roll. 

This system requires no computers, pumps or 

motors. 

FIG 4: Kinetic KDSS System Schematic 

(photo courtesy of Tenneco Corp.) 

Electronic stability control 

Whilst not strictly a steering and suspension 

item Electronic Stability Control is an important 

technology to detecting loss of steering control by 

the driver. During normal driving, ESC works in the 

background continuously monitoring steering and 

vehicle direction. ESC compares the drivers 

intended direction to the vehicles actual direction 

and only intervenes when it detects a loss of 

steering control ie the vehicle is not going where 

the driver is steering. This may happen, for 

example, when skidding during emergency 

swerves, understeer or oversteer during poorly 

judged turns etc. ESC measures the direction of 

skid and then applies the brakes to individual 

wheels asymmetrically in order to create torque 

about the vehicles vertical axis, opposing the skid 

and bringing the vehicle back into line with the 

drivers intended direction. Some systems may also 

reduce engine power or operate the transmission to 

slow the vehicle. Studies around the world confirm 

that ESC is highly effective in saving lives and 

reducing the severity of crashes. The European 

Commission has confirmed a proposal for 

mandatory introduction of ESC on all new cars and 

commercial vehicles sold in the EU from 2012, 

with all new cars being equipped by 2014. In 

Australia a vehicle cannot achieve a 5 star crash 

rating by ANCAP without including ESC – approx. 

50 percent of all new cars sold in Australia have 

ESC fitted as standard. 

FIG 5: Typical ESC Layout 

(Photo courtesy of Continental) 

Acknowledgement for assistance in preparing 

this article to TRW, Tenneco Corp., and 

Continental AG, Bose Corp. 



For over 30 years, the sport of lowering 

Commodores has been as Australian as football, 

meat pies, kangaroos and yes Holden cars. It is 

estimated that in that time well over three 

million aftermarket coil springs have been 

manufactured and sold to a market that has 

never looked like waning. The front spring design 

stayed largely unchanged from the VB model 

through to VY with the only change in rear spring 

design coming when GM introduced the Mini- 

Bloc spring in the IRS in the VP model in 

1991.Then in 2006 Holden decided it was time 

for a change with the VE model being released 

which ushered in a new spring design for both 

front and rear. In all previous models, to lower 

the Commodore anywhere from 30 to 50mm 

wasn’t a problem and was the general accepted 

mass market decision. Then came the VE.It was 

discovered immediately that lowering the VE 

50mm sat the car on the bump stops front and 

rear and made for an uncomfortable ride 

especially with linear rate springs. The design 

engineers at King Springs set about designing 

progressive rate lowered springs to alleviate the 

problem. The front spring was a relatively easy 

project. With standard front spring rates being 

approximately 120-140lb/” a design rising to 

approximately 230lb/” at ride height was created 

with a HD option a further 60-70lb/” beyond 

that. 

Then came the rear spring, with an unusual 

design of three varying inside diameters the 

decision was made to introduce a conical design 

spring. Given the parameters of spring design 

they had to work with this was an excellent 

choice. A conical spring is naturally progressive 

in its rate and when tapered wire and progressive 

pitch is introduced, you have the ultimate in 

spring design allowing substantial spring rate 

increases over a very short distance. With 

standard rear spring rates rising from 

approximately 300lb/” to 360lb/” the Kings 

conical design started at approximately 400lb/” 

Project VE 

The Evolution of a Historic Collaboration 

rising to 500lb/” at ride height and continually 

rising as the vehicle contacted the bump stop 

with a HD option some 60-70lb/” heavier again. 

The challenge was complete and resulted in 

the most advanced spring design ever seen in 

Australia for a mass production model vehicle. 

Attention then turned to the bump stops as 

it was decided that with the limited bump travel, 

substantial improvement could be gained by 

introducing a more progressive bump stop 

design especially in the rear. 

Although the final spring and bump stop 

package was good, there was still one more area 

that had to be addressed. 

The perfect solution to 

complete the exercise would 

be a custom designed, 

shortened body shock 

absorber with valving 

perfected to suit the advanced 

progressive rate spring design 

front and rear. 

Purpose built shock 

absorbers to suit lowered 

springs had been a dream for 

King Springs for many years 

with forays into many area’s 

not bringing the desired 

results. 

In 2006 King Springs met 

behind closed doors with 

Monroe to convince them of 

the need for a Shortened body 

Shock Absorber program with the VE being the 

flagship of the potential range. The Monroe boys 

agreed and the Monroe GT Sport was born. A 

collaboration of Australia’s leading spring and 

shock absorber manufacturers had begun. 

The design engineers from both companies 

got together and began to develop the range 

utilizing the Monroe Reflex technology and 

introducing new foot valves. 

V8 Super Car drivers Russell Ingall, Todd 

Kelly and Glenn Seton were enlisted to help finetune 

the package. 

With the abundant availability of the highest 

technology available in all relevant areas and a 

strong accent on ride control, comfort and safety 

it became evident to all concerned that the end 

product was going to be something special. 

For many years the there has been an 

accepted culture that to lower a vehicle and 

improve handling there were necessary sacrifices 

in the area of comfort. 

Not any more as King Springs and Monroe 

usher in a new generation of suspension 

technology that sets the bar for the aftermarket 

suspension industry in Australia. 

The GT Sport Program has a range of 25 part 

numbers to suit Commodore and Falcon with 

King Springs complimenting with 80 part 

numbers in varying height and spring rate 

options. 

For more details visit www.kingsprings.com.au 

or phone 07 5539 6700 

Austral goes Euro 

Austral Distributing Company, the engine and suspension specialist, is now expanding its product range 

to cover European passenger cars, light commercials and four-wheel-drive vehicles. 

“It is an exciting development for the 

company, especially with a very good range of 

products already available from existing 

suppliers. This gave us instant access to new 

product, without the any concerns with quality 

assurance,” Marketing Manager John 

McMenamin said. 

“Following last years visit to 

Automechanica in Frankfurt, Germany, we 

secured distribution from additional European 

manufacturers and agencies, which will 

further expand and compliment our euro 

range. 

‘’Stage one of the program will see the 

introduction of engine gaskets and cylinder 

head bolts, timing kits and components, 

hydraulic lifters and water pumps, plus engine 

valves. Other products are also under 

development, including steering and 

suspension for inclusion in the wasp range. 

“We believe the Euro package is another 

good reason for customers to make austral their 

first choice for engine and suspension 

components.’’ 

For more information call 

02 9534 5466. 



Super Pro has released a range of control 

arm bushings for the new generation of four 

wheel drive vehicles. Recent feedback from 

testing on various road conditions from smooth 

highways to rugged jungle has confirmed that 

the Fulcrum R&D design process gives our 4WD 

a comfortable ride, while still offering the 

control and stability of SuperPro polyurethane 

bushings. Recent field research has shown that 

these vehicles with medium to high kilometres 

have had excessive driver feedback problems 

due to worn or over compliant rubber bushings. 

Road impact with bumps on a potholed highway 

for example causes the control arm to continue 

to move and give added vibration up through 

the steering, subsequently producing an 

uncomfortable ride even after the installation of 

a SuperPro rack mount kit. 

The outcome of these new control arm 

bushings was a total success, with the owner of 

the test vehicle reporting that it had been 

transformed and was much more enjoyable to 

drive, with much better ‘turn-in’ and ‘response’. 

By utilising the endless innovations ofSuperPro, 

these results would see the same outcome for 

the leaf sprung four wheel drives and the new 

generation vehicles of today. 

Super Pro is super good! 

Enhance Your 4WD with Polyurethane Suspension Bushing 

The features involved in providing this result 

to a 4WD vehicle are more than just making a 

replacement size bushing. 

Step one 

The foundation of a quality polyurethane 

bushing is the steel hardware. The shell is made 

to a high quality tolerance inside and out for a 

superior bond between the polyurethane and 

inner shell. This allows the press fitment of the 

shell to control arm to be an exacting tolerance 

so as not to become loose at any time in the life 

of the bush. The zinc-plating on the shell and 

crush tube is imperative in four wheel drives, 

as seizing of the camber pins is a frequent 

occurrence due to contamination from off-road 

driving and beach work. Seized adjusting pins 

do not allow for the ease of alignment and 

control arm removal. In cases like this the lower 

inner bushing, hardened washers with knurling 

are used to prevent alignment change and 

premature wear, which is critical for the product 

to perform with a long working life. 

The features involved in 

providing this result to 

a 4WD vehicle are 

more than just making a 

replacement size bushing. 

Step two 

The most important part of a SuperPro 

polyurethane suspension bushing is the 

complex blend of high-grade polymeric 

materials and the engineering process that 

makes SuperPro what it is today. Polyurethane 

has the advantages of rigid plastics, metals, 

ceramics and rubber in the one bushing. It 

comes in a range of hardness' (i.e., Duro, Shore 

A) which allows precise matching of the duro to 

the application in hand, also the positioning of 

the bushing maximises effective life, vehicle 

control, positive location, response, and in turn 

minimises NVH levels and resilience. The high 

resilience of SuperPro allows it to absorb road 

shock and therefore maintain ride comfort. 

This all equates to the award winning 

research, development and manufacturing 

ability of Fulcrum Suspensions to make superior 

SuperPro polyurethane bushing at their facility 

in Brisbane to incorporate these features into 

over 4,000 part numbers to fit older model 

though to modern motor vehicles of today. 

Call 07 3892 9000 for a free copy of a computer 

desk-top catalogue CD which can be updated 

daily for newly released part numbers, or visit 

www.fulcrumsuspemsions.com.au for more 

information. 



Suspensions under pressure 

For those of us who can remember the ’60s, on the rear window of every Morris 1100 there was a sticker, 

which was shaped like a teardrop, which read: “It floats on fluid”. 

BMC had began its marketing campaign to 

convince everyone that their Hydrastatic 

suspension system was guranteed to give that ”big 

car” suspension feel and comfort to a short wheel 

base car. 

Originally invented by famous British rubber 

engineer Alex Moulton and together with Alec 

Issigonis (from the Mini fame) UK’s car 

manufacturer BMC in the early 1960s 

incorporated this ingenious and yet simplistic 

system whereby Hydroplastic displacers were 

fitted to either side of the front and rear 

of the car and inter-connected 

by way of a small bore pipe. 

Each displacer incorporates 

a rubber spring and damping 

the ride is achieved by 

rubber valves. When a front 

wheel hits a bump, fluid is 

forced up through to the 

corresponding suspension unit 

then to the rear wheel causing the 

rear suspension to rise by the same level 

Many of Australia's leading V8 Supercars have been 

operating their race vehicle's steering systems at the 

maximum limit to achieve high levels of steering 

performance required with the inherent problems this 

can bring. 

Engineering personnel under the direction of APS 

Managing Director, Mark Byford, have been working 

strenuously to custom-build special Rack & Pinion 

assemblies with custom gear ratios and tight 

tolerances to meet the specific requirements of each 

team. 

Custom housings are used along with specially 

engineered rack bars and torsion bars resulting in a 

marked improvement to the steering feel and reliability 

Gas up your Rodeo 

Pedders Suspension has expanded its range of shock absorbers. 

Of particular interest is the release 

of the Pedders Comfort Gas Coil Over 

Shock to suit the coil sprung version 

of the popular 2WD Holden Rodeo. 

Pedders now also has a sealed strut 

to the suit the late-model BF Falcon 

and Fairlane. Pedders warns customers 

as the front in anticipation and counteracting the 

deflection. The rubber springs are only slightly 

used and the car is freed from any tendency to 

pitch like a conventional shock absorber/metal 

spring system. 

In the ’70s BMC introduced the Austin Allegro 

with an updated and more sophisticated 

hydralastic suspension system, the new system – 

Hydragas, essentially, is a fluid 

(alcohol, antifreeze/ gas – nitrogen) 

suspension system consisting of 

four spheres i.e. two siamese 

spheres connected together, one pair 

at each wheel interconnected 

Hydraulically from front to rear. 

The upper sphere 

contained a rubber diaphram or 

‘separator’ that separates two 

compartments; one containing 

nitrogen gas and the other, fluid. 

The main working component is 

the nitrogen acting as the 

springing medium in the upper sphere. 

required by drivers to meet the gruelling requirements 

of the race circuit. 

Not only has the steering feel, engine drag, and 

reliability been improved but crew chiefs and team 

engineers who have experienced the custom-made 

steering components from Australian Power Steering 

claim they finally feel like they are on the right track. 

Formed in 1986, Australian Power Steering Pty Ltd 

(APS) is recognised as Australia's foremost remanufacturer 

of automotive manual and power steering 

racks, manual and power steering boxes and power 

steering pumps with a staff of 50 highly skilled personnel. 

For further information call 03 9580 2388. 

to be careful to get the correct strut for 

this application as there was a change 

midway through the product lifecycle 

of this vehicle. 

For more information visit 

www.pedders.com.au 

Each pair of Hydragas units are linked via top 

and bottom through a damper valve that controls 

the rate at which the fluid can enter or exit the 

upper part of the sphere. The lower sphere also 

contains a rubber diaphragm; however, it 

separates the fluid and is interconnected with its 

partner sphere on the same side of the car. 

In 1995, the MG was re-launched under the 

guise as the MGF featuring the Hydragas 

suspension system although somewhat modified. 

So far as reliability, this system is mostly 

problem free, however one thing that is critical is 

the ride height & this means that all adjustments 

and measurements need to be carried out in a 

sequence manner & with the correct equipment. 

Tool Solutions is proud to be the Australian 

distributors for the highly renowned Liquid-Levers 

UK range of Pressure Suspension Pumps approved 

by MG/Rover. 

For more information call 02 9753 5494, 

email toolsolutions@optusnet.com, 

or visit www.toolsolutionsonline.com.au 

Local rack and pinions provide competitive advantage 

Some of Australia's leading names in motorsport engineering have been taking full 

advantage of home grown expertise in power steering development provided by Australian 

Power Steering's advanced manufacturing operation in Melbourne's suburb of Braeside. 



Gabriel completes 

lowering range 

Commodore and Falcon cars can now be properly lowered 

with specially designed shockers built to do the job 

This is the result of a development program, which has seen Gabriel put 

together a comprehensive range of product. 

These shockers are built to the established Gabriel standards of quality and 

ride at a competitive price, but are shorter stroke to work with the new 

suspension travel and prevent lowered springs from dropping out when a 

modified car is jacked up or takes a speed hump too fast. 

The special Gabriel shock absorber, struts and cartridges allow the car to be 

lowered up to 50mm with a special shocker, which has heavy-duty sports valving 

and a shorter stroke and can be used for the following applications: 

• Commodore front: On VB to VP short stroke cartridges replace the standard 

units and on VR to VS and VT lowered struts are available. 

• Commodore rear: VB to VP and VR to VS have 30mm bore short stroke 

shocks, which suit the sedan and wagon. 

• Falcon front: XR to XD, XE and XF have short stroke 35mm shocks available. 

EA to ED and EF to EL have high performing Gabriel lowered struts. (The Ford 

chassis on the EA to EL is already factory fitted to take a lowering of 20mm 

where it can be welded lower the stock coils retained and the Gabirel lowered 

struts used. When lowering more than 20mm a lower aftermarket spring must 

be used, but the Gabriel lowered struts are suitable for up to 50mm.) 

• Falcon rear: XE, XF, ED and AU, AU11 & AU111 (live axle) can be lowered 

with the 35mm big bore shockers. Big bore is not available for the XR to XD 

but on these models standard units are still suitable for lowered vehicles as 

shortened shocks are not required because of the rear chassis configuration 

i.e. the Diff tops or bottoms out before the shocks can. 

Zed Tadic of GT Ford Performance uses the factory 

lowered Gabriel shocks. 

“This recently completed expansion of our total range is part of the way 

Gabriel are meeting the needs for just about every application,” Brandlines’ 

Maurice Luksich said. 

“We’ve matched the shorter stroke with complementary valving and are 

producing most in the desirable 35mm bore. 

“And also included with their special applications, these Gabriel shocks are 

attractively priced and boast excellent quality, durability and ride. 

“It all adds up to confirming how Gabriel covers the shocker market,” Mr 

Luksich said. 

All Gabriel shocks are available from Australian Truck and Auto Parts. 

For more information call 1800 645 609. 



Ride-Rite suspension gets the job done 

Suspension switch delivers towing, safety and ride benefits for work and recreation 

Tool Van Services Director Ross Luscombe believes that his Mercedes 

Sprinter work vehicle is now safer because his Airbag Man air suspension 

has created a smoother and more secure ride. 

Mr Luscombe initially used a different air helper suspension product 

for both his Sprinter and his recreational vehicle, a Nissan D40 Navara, 

with which he tows a caravan. However, the suspension kits he had 

purchased were not capable of handling the task on both of the vehicles' 

suspensions, causing them to bottom out. 

"When I used to put the work vehicle into self-ride it would supply as 

much air as it could but it would still bottom out," Mr Luscombe said. 

"The difference with the Airbag Man product was amazing - now the 

vehicle doesn't bottom out, allowing me to feel more comfortable and 

confident when I'm driving," Mr Lusscombe said, whose Tool Van Services 

business has been operating from Brisbane supplying South East 

Queeensland since 1980. 

The company supplies a comprehensive range of automotive tools and 

workshop equipment to automotive dealerships, service stations, private 

workshops, truck workshops, transport company workshops, mechanic's 

workshops and all general industry. 

Airbag Man says it is important to ensure hard working vehicles such 

as Tool Van Services' are safe and stable when carrying heavy loads 

because the added stress and spring deflection can affect the steering, 

chassis, suspension and the wheel alignment with resulting safety and 

cost issues. Airbag Man kits are designed to help protect these features 

and ensure the vehicle remains stable, reducing operating costs and 

increasing safety. 

For towing Mr Luscombe's caravan – a dual-axle 22 footer – a good 

suspension set-up is crucial as with all towing situations, especially when 

he travels around Australia on different roads and terrains that cause 

different and sometimes difficult driving conditions. 

It is important to minimise spring deflection when the caravan is 

hitched on and you load up for a trip as this can be potentially hazardous. 

Mr Luscombe has found that Airbag Man supplies an easy to install air 

suspension product that can prevent this hazard from occurring. 

"There is no other option for airbags – don't use anything other than 

Airbag Man," Mr Luscombe said, who is an experienced driver who 

understands suspensions. 

Airbag Man Ride-Rite suspension kits have been used extensively in 

work and recreation vehicle applications including utes, 4WDs and light 

trucks. The improvements to leaf sprung vehicles (other Airbag Man kits 

are available for coil sprung vehicles) have been especially important for 

trades people including electricians, painters, carpenters, glaziers as well 

as farmers, the mining and resources industry, food harvesters, 

manufacturers, primary producers, transport, water and waste facilities. 

"Ride Rite is not only making work vehicles safer, but also recreational 

vehicles rely on the ride and durability from the high quality air 

suspensions that Airbag Man supplies," Airbag Man Sales Manager, Ben 

Brown, said. 

"We use only high quality parts featuring tough Firestone air springs, 

similar in construction to those used underneath trucks and semi trailers. 

"We urge customers to look closely at products and ask questions 

before considering which air suspension product to buy as there are major 

differences in airbag design and quality. Beware of cheap imitations. 

"In the current economic climate investing in an Airbag Man air 

suspension is a wise choice as it will save you on tyre and brake wear 

associated with heavily laden suspensions not to mention the safety 

aspect," Mr Brown said. 

The Ride-Rite kits work through manual inflation or automatic inflation 

via a compressor system stored within the vehicle enabling the vehicle to 

carry an increased load. Deflation is just as simple restoring the vehicle 

to different levels according to the weight that is being carried ensuring 

a smooth ride. 

Airbag Man has more than 30 years' experience with air suspension 

and has been established as the leading Australian-owned air suspension 

specialist since 1994. Its range of products – which includes air 

suspension kits and air compressor accessory units – is designed for both 

individual and fleet customers, with kits available for most vehicle makes 

and models. 

For further information call 07 3889 6556, visit www.airbagman.com.au 

or email info@airbagman.com.au 



Toyota Landcruiser 200 Series G.V.M Upgrades 

Lovells’ G.V.M (Gross Vehicle Mass) Upgrades are the solution for owners of Toyota Landcruiser 200 Series Wagon 

vehicles who have a need to carry large loads (up to 3800kg), while at the same time meeting compliance requirements. 

The Lovell’s G.V.M Upgrade Kit can be 

fitted to vehicles with or without Toyota’s 

KDSS (Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System). 

Fitting a Lovells’ G.V.M Upgrade Kit can 

ensure business mangers are not subjected to 

claims for breaches of OH&S rules and 

employee negligence; the possibility of 

insurance companies voiding a payout because 

the vehicle was loaded beyond its approved 

G.V.M; and, the possibility of litigation under 

common law if the vehicle operated beyond its 

legal load limits. 

Recent assessment has shown that a fully 

rigged 200 Series with bull bar, winch, extra 

fuel tank, roll out drawers and a rear bar with 

spare wheel carrier can be close to or over 

the manufacturers Original Equipment G.V.M 

of 3300kg. That’s without anyone in the 

vehicle! 

Therefore, a vehicle with eight average size 

occupants and luggage will theoretically 

exceed the original equipment and legal Gross 

Vehicle Mass. This is without any load bearing 

accessories (eg. spare wheel carrier, bull bar, 

winch, roof rack, draw system, dual batteries 

etc) fitted. 

Using a Lovells’ G.V.M upgrade kit, 

(approved by the department of transport and 

regional services compliance plate approval 

no. 40257) helps avoid these problems and 

keep your vehicle legal. 

New vehicles must be fitted prior to 

registration. They are simply then registered 

with a G.V.M of 3800kg as per the new 

compliance plate. Vehicles that are already 

registered cannot be fitted with a kit under 

Federal Government approval. Yet, in some 

States of Australia, Lovells can offer State 

compliance for registered vehicles, dependant 

on your location. 

Because the Kit is approved on the basis 

of Lovells Springs being a secondary 

manufacturer, and the responsibility ultimately 

lying with Lovells, only Lovells Springs 

Authorised Fitters are approved to fit this kit. 

This kit will suit any vehicle that has basic 

accessories fitted and carries basic 

luggage/equipment. This includes government 

departments, mining companies, farmers, 

tradesmen, large and small businesses, even 

individuals loading their vehicles for travelling 

and off-road adventures. 

Vehicle warranty is not affected when a 

G.V.M Upgrade is fitted. Lovells’ testing and 

analysis procedures are stringent and 

undertaken by an accredited Automotive 

Engineering Consultant to ensure original 

equipment components are not compromised. 

Modifications and load limits are within 

theoretical service/safety factors to ensure the 

integrity and longevity of OE parts associated 

with increasing the vehicles load carrying 

capabilities. As Lovells is a secondary 

manufacturer, it is its responsibility to 

document these tests and thus take 

responsibility for the G.V.M upgrade 

compliance. 

For further information on your nearest 

Lovells’ stockist call 1800 006 227 or 

visit www.lovells.com.au 



In Australia, TRW's Steering and Suspension 

range for the aftermarket is distributed by Repco, 

is branded and of premium quality. 

High quality components ensure the overall 

performance of the parts. The components have 

an enormous influence on the durability and 

environmental resistance of steering and 

suspension parts. Inferior plastic sockets, rubber 

dust covers and grease can 

cause part failure and 

possibly accidents. TRW 

focuses on continual 

development of these 

vital components to 

consistently provide 

premium quality and 

reliability to all 

customers. For 

TRW leads the world! 

TRW is the world's leading provider of original equipment steering and suspension systems and now manufactures 

one quarter of the world's steering and suspension components - leading the market in the design, development, 

manufacture and integration of linkage and suspension systems for passenger cars. 

example, the grease used in TRW's ball joints is 

a patented formula and used at OE as well as in 

the aftermarket. 

And, where TRW feels it is beneficial for the 

end user, we offer further added value. For 

example on selected axial rods we provide the full 

repair kit to our aftermarket customers including 

the bellows and clamping rings. 

Every TRW aftermarket steering and 

suspension product is subject to the same 

uncompromising policy that applies to the 

TRW OE components. 

Test procedures include: 

• Functional and strength tests where the axial 

and radial/ elasticity, rotation/ articulation/ 

break away torques, push out/pull out forces 

and buckling tension loads are measured; 

• Acoustic measurements carried out in a special 

test chamber to minimize noise and vibrations; 

• Several single and multi axle test-rigs are 

used to ensure best durability; 

• Environmental resistance tests include the 

simulation of high and low temperatures, 

combined with salt spray corrosion tests; 

• Front axle simulation, where complete front 

axle systems can be dynamically tested on a 

50 tonne test stand – nothing is closer to the 

real world; 

• Drive tests to optimize performance. 

TRW’s stringent requirements extend beyond 

our own manufacturing facilities - all of our 

suppliers materials and manufacturing processes 

are audited regularly to ensure consistently high 

quality throughout - because safety is our priority. 

The TRW steering and suspension range 

covers more than 95 percent of the European and 

85 percent of the Asia Pacific parc, including 

BMW, Mercedes, Volvo, Volkswagen, Daewoo, 

Honda, Hyundai, Kia, Mazda, Mitsubishi, Nissan, 

Proton, Subaru, Suzuki and Toyota. 

From start to finish TRW is driven by safety. 

From the quality of our products to the reliability 

of our parts, your customers will be glad you 

chose TRW. 

For more information call 133 227 

State of the art ride control and handling 

The sole purpose of a shock absorber, more accurately named 'damper' in any 

suspension system, is to control the oscillations of coil/leaf springs or torsion bars. 

If they are damped, the tyre is able to stay in 

contact with the road surface. The net result is 

safety, a more comfortable ride, precise 

handling, efficient braking and smooth 

acceleration. The damping forces in traditional 

shock absorbers can be designed to be either 

soft, hard or in between, making the damping 

forces largely a compromise. For a standard 

shock absorber an engineer would have to choose 

between any of three settings. Then there are 

manually adjustable shock absorbers where the 

driver can select the setting by turning a knob 

on the shock absorber itself, as is done with 

many motor racing applications, but this is not a 

very exciting prospect for the average driver. 

The first generation ZF Sachs designed CDC 

(Continuous Damping Control) uses a more 

continuous or flexible approach to chassis 

damping, avoiding the compromise between hard 

and smooth damping forces. An Electronic 

Control Unit takes signals from the sensors on 

the vehicle suspension and interacts with the 

Anti-lock Braking System and Electronic Stability 

Control system, while also taking information 

from steering wheel angle, brake pressure and 

engine torque. Armed with all of this data, the 

Sachs CDC shock absorber continuously controls 

the damping force by modulating its valves. The 

Sachs CDC damper ensures that the car is safer 

and easier to drive, prevents nosedive on braking 

and 'squat' on acceleration. These state of the 

art Sachs shock absorbers allow driving on 'sport' 

or 'normal' damper settings selectable at the 

push of a button on the dashboard by the driver. 

To further refine continuous damping, the 

next generation Sachs CDC shock absorbers now 

employ two proportional valves to independently 

control the damping forces at the compression 

and the rebound cycles of the shock absorbers. 

Internally called CDC 2e, this innovative new 

system has been adopted by BMW for their new 

7 Series. To date, this kind of damping 

complexity has only been utilized in Formula One 

and in other major motor racing categories, 

including V8 Supercar, where every second 

wasted by the driver in correcting the travel of 

the car along the track can mean the difference 

between success and failure. 

ZF Sachs brings the technology and 

expertise, developed in supplying state of the art 

racing dampers to the likes 

of Team Vodafone for their 

three-time Bathurst 

winning V8 Supercar along 

with the Brawn GP and 

Red Bull Racing Formula 1 

teams, to its passenger car 

shock absorber range in 

the Australian automotive 

aftermarket. 

ZF Australia Pacific 

supplies Sachs and Boge 

branded shock absorbers 

to the Australian 

automotive aftermarket. 

With these two brands, ZF 

boasts almost 97 percent coverage of the 

Australian passenger car market. The Australian 

catalogue contains detailed application listings 

for shock absorbers along with associated top 

mounts and bearings. 

For more information please contact ZF Australia 

Pacific Sales Manager, Darren Leyshon 

02 9679 5588. 


GARAGE EQUIPMENT 

Alemite Lubrequip has a wheel aligner 

to suit your business needs 

Whether you own and operate a small automotive workshop or manage a large tyre dealer, Alemite 

Lubrequip can provide a wheel aligner to suit your day-to-day vehicle servicing operations. 

Alemite Lubrequip imports wheel 

service equipment from one of Europe's 

largest privately owned workshop 

equipment manufacturers, Ravaglioli Spa 

in Italy. 

Established in 1958, Ravaglioli has 

over 50 years development and 

manufacturing experience in the wheel 

service equipment equipment industry and 

offers one of the largest wheel alignment 

ranges available. 

Alemite Lubrequip imports a 

comprehensive range of wheel aligners 

from Rav to suit all vehicle requirements 

and includes: 

• 8CCD aligners, with Bluetooth 

communication and special spoiler 

programmes, designed for large 

workshops, dealerships and tyre 

dealers; 

• 6CCD aligners designed for medium 

size workshops; 

• 4CCD aligners for low volume users; 

• Laser aligners for confined space 

workshops; 

• Truck wheel aligners. 

Passenger vehicle wheel aligners are 

supplied with: 

• Self-centering wheel clamps to save you 

time (Rav patented wheel clamps can 

be fitted in any position, regardless of 

rim design); 

• One set mechanical turntables; 

• A brake pedal depressor anda steering 

wheel holder. 

Rav wheel aligners have a great range 

of accessories, including: 

• Electronic turntables; 

New Knipex Plier Sets 

Knipex has released a range of premium automotive specialty 

tool sets clearly arranged in handy foam trays. 

Pliers are well protected and clearly 

arranged in trays that slide directly into 

your toolbox or trolley. Tools are easy to 

identify and access, and missing tools are 

recognised at first sight. 

The basic set (part no. 002001V01) 

contains popular combination and side 

cutting pliers, diagonal cutters and water 

pump pliers. The circlip plier set (part no. 

002001V04) contains six premium 

quality internal and external circlip pliers 

in popular sizes. 

Knipex pliers are made in Germany to 

the highest specifications for professional 

users who must be able to rely on their 

tools for day to day work. 

For further information please contact 

Tridon customer service on 1300 362 263 

or see your local Tridon stockist. 

• Remote measuring systems (take 

measurements directly from the vehicle 

suspension); 

• Special wheel clamps for BMW, 

Mercedes and Smart rims; 

• Clamps for Porsche rims; 

• And different styles of wheel clamps 

grippers. 

The Wheel Service Equipment Manager 

with Alemite Lubrequip, Claude Frau, has 

30 years experience in the automotive 

industry and his equipment philosophy 

reflects the quality of Ravagalioli wheel 

service equipment and the attitude of 

Alemite Lubrequip: "The machine needs to 

be reliable, easy and simple to operate, 

with after sales support available when you 

need it". 

To ensure that our customers receive 

the right advice, support and training, 

Alemite Lubrequip selects distributors with 

equipment specialists who receive ongoing 

training and support from our Wheel 

Service Equipment Manager. Once trained 

these specialists are capable of offering 

expert advice, installation services and 

operator training. 

For further information and sales enquires, 

please contact your nearest Alemite 

Lubrequip state office: 

NSW 02 9939 0711 

QLD 07 3889 8480 

VIC 03 8787 8288 

WA 08 9209 3066 

SA/NT 08 8241 7111 

TAS 03 6343 0477 



Not a bread slicer, but just as good! 

The manufacturers of the EDEA Ignition System Tester have claimed it is the 

“best new tool, since the one that slices bread”. 

It is 100 percent Australian 

designed and made. 

The EDEA Ignition System Tester 

accurately tests: 

• Igniters 

• Coil over Plug 

• Coil Packs 

• Conventional Coils 

• Dis Modules 

• Ignition Modules 

• Crank Sensors 

• Optical Sensors 

• Hall Sensors 

The increased profit opportunities 

offered by introducing these user friendly 

JBC Aligners from Repco in any workshop 

are obvious. The top of the range JBC 

Arago V3D Aligner's speedy use is 

achieved thanks to its DigiSmartT 

technology. Using cameras, the Arago V3D 

tracks all four vehicle targets 

automatically and at any height. Even 

rolling compensation can be performed 

without lifting a vehicle, guaranteeing 

three dimensional animation and readings 

in just two minutes. 

The Arago V3D is perfect for those 

• Inductive Sensors 

• Speed Sensors 

• Injectors 

What sets it apart from similar 

testers is the comprehensive 

instruction manual, which is easy to 

follow with pictured instructions 

that take you step by step through 

all the testing procedures. It is also 

continually being updated so it 

never becomes superseded. 

The EDEA Ignition System Tester 

reduces the risk of replacing 

workshops that handle a high volume of 

alignments and seek significant 

improvements in profitability within this 

area of their business. Technicians are 

able to work at any height, eliminating the 

need to crawl under a vehicle for 

adjustments. The JBC Aligners Arago V3D 

handles a wide variety of vehicles, 

enabling errors to be found and corrected 

in reduced time and before they become 

costly. 

Repco also offers automotive repairers 

and tyre / wheel fitting specialists the JBC 

Aligners Arago V3D1 Alignment System. 

This aligner uses JBC patented 

imaging technology to provide 

accurate, real-time measurements that 

reduce set-up and measurement times, 

thereby generating serious productivity 

benefits. This proven technology is 

matched with easy to use software that 

can provide automotive technicians 

with readings within a matter of 

minutes. 

The introduction of either of these 

JBC Aligners from Repco will assist in 

generating more wheel alignment 

business for any automotive workshop, 

resulting in more satisfied customers, 

while enhancing an improved and 

highly efficient profit centre of the 

business. 

The JBC products are 

expensive non-faulty parts you can’t 

return. 

Australian Fuel Injection (AFI) 

has become the exclusive 

distributor for the EDEA Tester for 

Australia. 

It was launched at the recent 

AAAA Expo with live 

demonstrations, and the response 

was overwhelming. 

If you would like more information, 

contact AFI, on 02 9897 9922. 

John Bean wheel alignment systems available from Repco 

Repco now offers Australian automotive workshops two of the industry's leading wheel 

alignment systems from JBC Aligners that combine high precision technology with 

three dimensional imaging accuracy and unrivalled speed of operation. 

The John Bean Arago V3D 

Imaging Alignment System 

available now from Repco. 

complementary to Repco's already 

extensive equipment range, including 

world-leading brands across vehicle lifting, 

braking, wheel service and more. 

Repco Equipment has been selling and 

servicing light and heavy garage 

equipment in Australia for more than 25 

years. Not only is Repco Equipment 

represented through our network of 280 

plus stores across Australia, Repco 

Equipment also have state based offices 

in all major Australian capital cities. From 

supply, installation, product training and 

technical support, Repco Equipment can 

take care of every automotive workshop's 

needs. 

To view the entire Repco Equipment 

range, pick up a copy of the new 2009 

Mega Tools and Equipment Catalogue 

from any Repco store. 

Repco continues to offer competitive 

financing options linked to equipment 

purchases. The capital updating of 

automotive workshop tools and equipment 

is also applicable for generous new 

Federal Government Taxation incentives 

for capital purchases. It is definitely the 

right time to be updating any automotive 

repair workshop tools and equipment from 

Repco. 

To locate your nearest Repco store, 

call 133 227. 



Pro-Cut brings live digital readout to 

PFM 9.2 On-Car Lathe 

Innovation delivers significant value for shop management 

Pro-Cut has released the latest model of on-car brake lathe – the PFM 9.2 DRO-Live. 

This new model includes a five 

character LED screen mounted inside 

the computer box that constantly shows 

run-out in the lathe during the 

compensation process. In addition, the 

LED screen will display captured data 

on lathe use and performance that, in 

combination with a report card and 

innovative new service plan, will provide 

shop managers with the means to insure 

the functionality and profitability of the 

lathe. Pro-Cut is the first manufacturer 

in the world to deliver this patent 

pending technology to the market. 

Pro-Cut PFM on-car lathes use a 

sensor, computer, and precise drive 

system to automatically align the lathe 

so the resulting machined rotor is 

tailored to turn perfectly true regardless 

of irregularities in the vehicle's hub. 

Previous versions of the PFM lathe used 

green and red lights to indicate the 

accuracy of the compensation. The new 

DRO-Live model shows the run-out in 

the lathe to within one ten thousandths 

of an inch (0.0001' or 1/25th the 

thickness of a hair). 

While the live run-out display may 

provide a comfort, the real value of the 

system is in the data that is captured by 

the lathe's computer and retrievable 

through the LED screen. A series of 

keystrokes allows the operator to gather 

information on how much the lathe has 

been used and how well it's functioning. 

The data can be captured and loaded 

into a lathe report card that extrapolates 

the profitability of the lathe and 

provides alerts to possible service 

needs. 

"With essential tool status at GM, 

Ford, Nissan, and other OEMs, service 

shops have known they need a Pro-Cut 

lathe but they couldn't know for sure 

whether they were making money with 

that lathe. By combining our new 

technology with a new style of 

partnership with the customer, we 

provide shop management with 

everything they need to truly manage 

and insure the profitability of our 

product,” a Pro-Cut spokesperson said. 


Repco Equipment Company 

on 1800 224 581 



Charge to the top of the class with Vulkan Lokring 

Vulkan Lokring, the 120 year old company that manufactures the Lokring solder-less tube joining 

technology, is now up to version three of its fully automatic air-conditioning charge machine, Speedmaxx. 

The SpeedMaxx III is manufactured in 

the Vulkan Lokring plant in Herne, Germany. 

This German engineering has seen the 

Speedmaxx III endorsed by many 

automotive manufacturers such as Porche, 

BMW, Mercedes and Toyota and can now be 

found in many of their dealer workshops 

throughout the world. 

Being fully automatic, once started, 

Speedmax III will do a complete service 

including recovery and recycling of 

refrigerant, purging of used oils, evacuation, 

vacuum leak test, charging of oils, UV dye 

and refrigerant. Once the service has been 

successfully completed, Speedmaxx III will 

call you back to start the vehicle and airconditioning 

system. Speedmaxx will then 

perform a system pressure test and provide 

a graphical print out of the working pressure 

curves. If during the full service Speedmaxx 

detects a problem with the system, say a gas 

leak, the unit will stop and indicate that your 

attention is required. If everything is OK, 

your time can be used elsewhere while 

Speedmaxx does all you air-conditioning 

servicing. 

The intelligent menu navigation takes 

you through the fully automatic processes 

with only three keys. The on-screen 

instructions walk you through every step of 

the set-up making the operating manual a 

thing of the past. The lay-out of the 

operating panel and the large 5.7" graphic 

display make menu navigation easy and 

intuitive. 

The patented containers for oil and UV 

dye hermetically seal the contents from the 

environmental air. This means hygroscopic 

oils do not become contaminated by water 

vapour in the air keeping the refrigerant pure 

and the system free from contamination. 

The SpeedMaxx three conforms to SAE 

J2099 for refrigerant purity. 

The printout can allow you to provide 

your customer with air-conditioning 

performance before and after service with a 

printed graphical curve. Other data such as 

the amount of refrigerant recovered and 

charged is also printed. This can help you 

to keep records for tracking your R134a use. 

While on this subject, the Speedmaxx III is 

also a recovery unit that satisfies the 

ARCtick equipment requirements. 

For more information can be found at 

www.vulkan.com.au. 

Clean up your act with Karcher 

Karcher has a number of solutions to keep your garage and customers’ cars clean, 

including the following: 

The NT 27/1 

The HDS 551 C ECO is Karcher’s entry 

level Hot Water High Pressure Cleaner with 

a powerful 2030 PSI and 8.3 litres per 

minute of water flow. It is compact and 

ideal for workshops, agricultural use and 

car detailers etc. 

Using the same German engineering as 

its bigger brothers and sisters the HDS 551 

C ECO is great value for its small price. 

The NT 27/1 is a powerful wet and dry 

vacuum for professional users. It is 

compact and exceptionally strong with its 

1380 watts of power and 27-litre waste 

tank complete with a number of 

accessories as standard. 

A Top performer in the car detailing and 

carpet spot cleaning market is Karcher’s 

Puzzi 8/1C, with its 1380 watts of power 

along with one litre per minute of water 

flow this model compares well against the 

The HDS 551 C ECO 

larger models in the Karcher range. 


Karcher on1300 761 809 or 

visit www.karcher.com.au 



Accounting software designed for you 

It has a similar look and feel to MYOB but it’s for 

motor mechanics. 

You don’t need any other software. 

It contains everything you need to run your workshop 

including bookings, quoting, job cards, invoicing, stock 

control, service list, inspection report, balance sheet, 

profit and loss and BAS. 

You can start by just using it to do the invoicing and 

build your customer database as you invoice them, and 

increase its use as time goes on, or you can use any of 

its capabilities as you need it. 

When you do an invoice, everything is automatically 

updated, including all the bank accounts, money owing 

accounts, stock, profit and loss statement, GST reports 

etc. 

Invoices can be found by using the vehicle Rego No. 

or the customer’s name. 

Everything is always there for you in the following 

years, including all your customer details and their 

vehicles, their invoices, payments, your purchases, your 

supplier’s and your stock levels. 

It also has automatic next service and re-registration 

reminder letters. 

Customers say it’s the best thing they have purchased. 

Tradepronamics is designed to run the whole workshop. 



INA claims regular maintenance is a must 

A critical prerequisite for trouble-free operation of the timing belt drive or the 

accessory belt drive is the correct tension. 

A slipping poly V-belt can destroy the 

rollers of the front-end accessories or cause 

the belt to tear. With a faulty power steering 

pump the vehicle can no longer be 

controlled. A faulty water pump results in 

the overheating of the engine - including all 

consequential damages. A torn accessory 

drive belt can also destroy the timing belt 

and result in an engine breakdown. 

How much a component is worn out 

varies for each vehicle but belt drive 

systems operate under demanding 

conditions. In an environment of excessive 

heat and dirt, continuous load changes as 

well as stop-and-go traffic, belt drive 

components are subject to extreme wear. 

This is why the service instructions and 

repair schedules specified by the 

manufacturer should always be adhered to. 

INA manufactured tension rollers are 

equipped with special bearings, which 

ensure long service life and therefore 

increased reliability and safety. For this 

reason, each workshop should only rely on 

INA products in order to avoid any 

consequential damage to the engine, which 

may result from fitting copied tension 

rollers with built-in standard bearings. 

Furthermore, the complete tensioning unit 

should be replaced instead of just a single 

roller or damper as this may considerably 

reduce the service life of the complete 

tensioning system. 

Now available from Schaeffler 

Automotive Aftermarket: the INA universal 

tool kit for professional repair and 

maintenance of belt drive components. The 

high-quality tools included in the kit do not 

only cover all current vehicle makes and 

models, but also older engine types. The kit 

comes with a detailed description of how 

and when each tool is to be used. 

Additionally available - a sturdy hard-shell 

case with special foam inserts to protect the 

kit components while they are not in use or 

during transportation. The purchase price 

of the complete set is 

less than the sum of 

its individual 

elements. 

The tool case's 

contents at a 

glance: 

• Toothed belt tension roller dowel pin; 

• Camshaft pulley holder; 

• V-belt pulley holding tool; 

• Holding wrench universal set; 

• Camshaft pulley universal locking tool; 

• Alternator wrench; 

• Camshaft pulley extractor; 

• Belt pulley extractor set; 

• Crankshaft arresting pins; 

• Flywheel locking pin. 

All kit components are also available 

individually. 

For further information please 

call 02 8977 1038 or email 

INA-AS.au@Schaeffler.com 



All new battery chargers set new standard in busy workshops 

All new 20 and 35-Amp battery chargers with plenty of power, practical engine start facility 

and the capability of charging six, 12 or 24-volt batteries are enhancing the Projecta name 

for quality and reliability in workshops well beyond Australasia. 

Following on from the success of the 

earlier model Projecta workshop 12/24-volt 

battery charger, Projecta product 

development engineers set themselves a 

challenge to source a practical, reliable and 

robust charger that would exceed market 

expectations. With a comprehensive wish 

list the team scoured world markets only to 

find their established criteria could not be 

met in any one product. 

Using leading European brands as a 

benchmark for quality, Projecta's highly 

qualified product team under the direction 

of Senior Technician, Paul Nador, set out on 

an ambitious in-house engineering program 

to design the ultimate charger suited to 

Australian workshop conditions. It had to be 

capable of charging six, 12 and 24-volt, 

include the popular engine start feature and 

offer automatic charge control with manual 

options for expert technicians. 

Sharing the original housing of the earlier 

model, the similarity stops there with the 

new charger incorporating ground-up 

developments including new electronics 

providing greater hardware protection plus 

automatic or manual operation features. 

LED Volt and Amp digital read-outs are 

featured for the technically minded who 

want to know how the charger is working or 

just a simple indication for those who want 

to know just when to turn the charger off. 

When used by experienced technicians 

the new chargers can be used to deliver an 

equalising charge to balance the voltage in 

each of the battery's cells. Both models 

automatically control the output when the 

battery is fully charged and maintain it in a 

fully charged state. A 14-hour timer can be 

set to turn the charger off at any preset time. 

Suitable for motor, truck, bus and heavy 

equipment workshops, panel shops, farming 

and engineering workshops, these rugged, 

practical chargers promote ease of operation 

with all the safeguards for long operational 

life. 

The new Projecta chargers are now 

available from leading automotive outlets 

throughout Australia under Part 

No.HDBC20 for the 20 Amp and Part No. 

HDBC35 for the 35-Amp model. 


or email gdavies@projecta.com.au 


EASTERNATS 2009 

2009 REPCO EASTERNATS THE BIGGEST YET! 

The 2009 Repco Easternats proved its status as a major Australian street machine and custom car 

competition event and show this year. Approximately 30,000 spectators took part in this massive three 

day event held over the Easter long weekend at Melbourne's Sandown International Raceway. 

A new record number of vehicle entrants, 

740, took part in the Repco Easternats, with 

the highest ever vehicle standards seen at 

this unique feast of high performance 

entertainment. 

While busy over the opening two days, 

the 2009 Repco Easternats peaked on the 

Easter Monday public holiday with massive 

crowds enjoying the action that included: 

Castrol Cruising, DBA Go To Whoa, 

Jenson Sound Off, K&N Show & Shine, 

Clutch Industries Performance Street Drags, 

Nolathane Burnout Comp & two brand new 

Repco Easternats events, the ACL Stampede 

(a 100m straight line burnout) and the BBE 

TSI Burnout Masters. 

The BBE TSI Burnout masters was an 

invite only competition for nine competitors, 

comprising of previous burnout competition 

winners and Australian Burnout Champions, 

including such names as Repco XACUTER 

driver Gary Myers, along with Clint Ogilvy, 

Steve Loader, Glen Eastwood and Mark 

Arblaster to mention a few. 

Even a Jet Car took part in this three-day 

celebration of horsepower and style, while 

the Muscle Car display saw more than 60 

immaculate Ford, Holden and Chevrolet 

muscle cars take part. 

Repco's 350 square metre marquee 

located on the Sandown Raceway main 

straight was a major part of this massive 

performance vehicle event, with nine Repco 

performance product suppliers exhibiting 

their ranges including; ACL, Clutch 

Industries, Red Ranger, DBA, Jenson, 

American Republic Wheels, Motospecs, 

Yella Terra and BBE Auto. 

Repco ‘XACUTER’ driven by Gary Myers. 

Repco Marquee at Sandown with nine leading performance product suppliers taking part. 


EASTERNATS 2009 

Repco also had a mini onsite store 

manned by volunteers from the company's 

Melbourne head office and local stores, 

which saw constant sales throughout this 

major event. Repco promotional staff handed 

out stickers, temporary tattoos for the kiddies 

and 20 percent off vouchers throughout the 

event. 

At this level of growth, the 2010 Repco 

Easternats will be even better next year! 

The highly anticipated Repco Performance 

Guide 3 was released at the 2009 Repco 

Easternats. Repco Performance Guide 3 

outlines Australia's leading automotive 

retailer and trade supplier's largest ever range 

of brands and premium quality performance 

products to suit just about any high 

performance vehicle application. 

Repco also revealed the the first all new 

Crager Wheel design seen in more than 20 

years at the 2009 Repco Easternats. Repco 

Performance Guide 3 is available now from 

all Repco stores. Repco trade account 

customers can order the new Performance 

Guide by quoting part number RPG#3. 

Repco promo girls with Gary Myers' multi-award winning Silver Bullet Mustang in Repco Marquee. 

REPCO EASTERNATS 2009 Results 

SOUND OFF 

SOUND QUALITY 

DAMIEN HORNER - 2002 HOLDEN VY UTE - CLASS ONE - 1ST 

ANDREW BORG - 2005 SUBARU RS IMPREZA HATCH - 

CLASS TWO - 1ST 

MATT LEIGH - 1957 CHEVROLET BELAIR 4 DOOR HARDTOP - 

CLASS THREE - 1ST 

SPL COMPETITION 

BENKI LEW - 1991 HONDA INTEGRA - CLASS PISTOL - 1ST 

DAMIEN HORNER - 2002 HOLDEN VY UTE - 

CLASS SHOTGUN - 1ST 

ZORAN SLAVOVIC - 1984 SUZUKI HATCH - CLASS MACHINE - 1ST 

SAMUEL MC WATERS - 1983 MAZDA 323 HATCH - 

CLASS BAZOOKA - 1ST 

LOUDEST CAR 

SAMUEL MC WATERS - 1983 MAZDA 323 HATCH 

PEOPLES CHOICE 

TROY WILLIAMS - 2002 HOLDEN BERLINA VX SEDAN 

SHOW N SHINE - TOP TEN CARS 

DAMIEN HORNER - 2002 HOLDEN VY UTE 

GARY MYERS - 1966 FORD MUSTANG COUPE 

PETER OLVER - 1932 FORD ROADSTER 

MAURICE D'ALBERTI - 1968 HOLDEN MONARO COUPE 

ADAM SPEAKMAN - 1974 MAZDA RX2 CAPELLA SEDAN 

PHIL KERJEAN - 1981 HOLDEN VK COMMODORE WAGON 

CON VERGINIS - 1957 HOLDEN FE SEDAN 

MATT LEIGH - 1957 CHEVROLET 

JOE ARGENTARO - 1934 FORD COUPE 

ANTHONY FABRIS - 1955 CHEVROLET BELAIR COUP 

BEST SHOW VEHICLE 

GARY MYERS - 1966 FORD MUSTANG 1ST 

MATT LEIGH - 1957 CHEVROLET 2ND 

ANTHONY FABRIS - 1955 CHEVROLET 3RD 

BEST UNDERCARRIAGE - PETER OLVER 1932 FORD ROADSTER 

BEST UPHOLSTERY - MATT LEIGH 1957 CHEVROLET 

BEST BODY - MAURICE D'ALBERTI 

1968 HOLDEN MONARO COUPE 

BEST APPEARANCE - GARY MYERS 1966 FORD MUSTANG COUPE 

BEST ENGINE BAY - MATT LEIGH 1957 CHEVROLET 

BEST PAINT - GARY MYERS 1966 FORD MUSTANG COUPE 

BEST ENGINE - GARY MYERS 1966 FORD MUSTANG COUPE 

BEST ENGINEERING - GARY MYERS 1966 FORD MUSTANG COUPE 

BEST 4 CYLINDER - ANDREW BORG 

2005 SUBURU RS IMPREZA HATCH 

BEST RESTORED - TROY BATTERSBY 1962 HOLDEN EJ SEDAN 

BEST COMMERCIAL - DAMIEN HORNER 2002 HOLDEN VY UTE 

BEST CONCEPT/COMP - MATT LEIGH BLACK ROADSTER 

BEST CUSTOM - SIMON HARROLD 1984 HOLDEN GEMINI UTE 

BEST HOT ROD - PETER OLVER 1932 FORD ROADSTER 

BEST ROTARY - ADAM SPEAKMAN 

1974 MAZDA RX2 CAPELLA SEDAN 

BEST 2 DOOR - GARY MYERS 1966 FORD MUSTANG COUPE 

BEST 4 DOOR - MATT LEIGH 1957 CHEVROLET 

GO TO WHOA 

1ST - KEVIN MACKRELL 1975 DATSUN 260Z COUPE 

2ND - ASHLEIGH TOOMBS 1980 HOLDEN GEMINI SEDAN 

3RD - NIGEL POLAN 2003 HOLDEN VY SS UTE 

STAMPEDE 

1ST - MARIO MANGION 2001 HOLDEN VU SS UTE 

2ND - JUSTIN SMITH 1967 CHEV CAMARO COUPE 

3RD - JASON MCINTOSH 1975 HOLDEN LH SEDAN 

STREET DRAGS 

1ST - DANIEL NUNJIANTE 1974 CORTINA TD 

2ND - PAT CARUSO 1972 HOLDEN LJ TORANA COUPE 

BURNOUT RESULTS 

TOP TEN 

LEROY REES - 1975 HOLDEN HJ STATESMAN SEDAN 

BRAD MURNANE -1972 HOLDEN LJ TORANA COUPE 

WARRICK MACKLIN - 1969 HOLDEN HT UTE 

BUBBA MEDLYN - 1981 HOLDEN VH COMMODORE SEDAN 

HARRY HAIG - 1967 FORD UTE 

ANDREW LYNCH - 1981 TOYOTA COROLLA SEDAN 

CHRIS HOEBICH - 1993 HOLDEN VP COMMODORE SEDAN 

DEAN SMITH - 1985 HOLDEN COMMODORE SEDAN 

JAMES NORTH - 1976 HOLDEN TORANA HATCHBACK 

REIMUND GEISS - 1979 HOLDEN GEMINI SEDAN 

BURNOUT MASTERS 

1ST - RICHARD HARRISON 1976 HOLDEN GEMINI SEDAN 

2ND - GLENN EASTWOOD 1976 HOLDEN GEMINI SEDAN 

3RD - GARY MYERS 1966 FORD MUSTANG COUPE 


PRTC 

This major Melbourne-based and Repcosponsored 

street machine show and competition 

event was the perfect launching pad for the third 

edition of Repco's popular Performance Guide. 

Showcasing cool retro-inspired design cues 

reminiscent of the 70's, Repco Performance 

Guide 3 is proof positive of Repco's impressive 

growth in the Australian performance market. 

Repco Performance Guide 3 outlines 

Australia's leading automotive retailer and trade 

supplier's largest ever range of brands and 

premium quality performance products to suit 

just about any high performance vehicle 

application. 

The new Repco Performance Guide also 

features a great deal more than just product 

information, with an update on Australia's 

burnout king, Gary Myers and his Repco XA- 

CUTER Ford Coupe, along with an update on 

Repco Geelong North store manager Jason 

Forssman's 4WD off road racing exploits. 

Also featured in this third edition of the 

Repco Performance Guide are images and details 

of selected cars belonging to staff from Repco 

REPCO PERFORMANCE GUIDE 3 OUT NOW 

The third and much anticipated edition of the Repco Performance Guide was released at the 2009 Repco Easternats. 

stores across the country. This 

serves to clearly promote the 

fact that Repco staff 

members and management 

identities share the 

customers' passion for their 

cars and for all things high 

performance. 

According to Repco 

Performance Products 

Category Manager, Mark 

Morrison, the new Repco 

Perfomance Guide is the 

ultimate reference for all who 

seek the most from their cars. 

"Whether it's a huge V8 engined street 

machine or custom car, a smaller four cylinder 

rocket or everything that exists in between, the 

third Repco Performance Guide is the best 

reference yet to locating all that you need 

promptly," he said. 

New performance products joining Repco's 

premier range include Performance 

Transmissions from Transmission Specialities 

from the USA, along with fellow 

well-known American performance 

and racing differential manufacturer 

KAZZ Differentials. 

Repco's successful introduction 

of retro-fit performance wheels 

continues in 2009 with a new range 

of Crager and Greg Weld Wheels, 

including the first all new Crager 

Wheel design seen in more than 20 

years. This outstanding quality 

performance wheel was also 

released at the 2009 Repco 

Easternats. 

The new Repco Performance 

Guide 3 ensures that any one of Repco's 280 

store nationwide network becomes a one-stop 

destination for all performance requirements. 

The guide is available now from all Repco 

stores, to locate your closest Repco store call 133 

227. 

Repco trade account customers can order the 

new Performance Guide by quoting part number 

RPG#3. 

RARE SPARES EXPANDS SPONSOR RANKS WITH 

BIANTE TOURING CAR MASTERS 

The Biante Touring Car Masters has welcomed the decision by Rare Spares to increase its commitment to the category for the 2009 season with the 

Melbourne based automotive and industrial company taking on an major associate sponsorship involvement. 

The sponsorship expansion sees Rare 

Spares become the series' number plate 

sponsor and will also host official Rare Spares 

autograph signing sessions with the stars of 

the Biante Touring Car Masters at each round. 

Rare Spares brand ambassador 

sponsorship of Biante Touring Car Masters 

driver, John Bowe, also continues. 

The hugely successful partnership heads 

into its second year in what looks to be the 

biggest and most exciting season yet. 

Rare Spares' marketing alliance partner, 

Shannons Insurance also joins the ranks of 

Biante Touring Car Masters sponsorship with an 

associate package, while continuing to offer 

individual support to Jim Richards and his 

Falcon Sprint. 

"There is an obvious synergy between Rare 

Spares and the Biante Touring Car Masters with 

these masterfully restored period cars delivering 

fantastic race action,” David Rayner, General 

Manager Rare Spares, said. 

"The Touring Car Masters series offers Rare 

Spares a range of exciting opportunities to 

promote and build our brand in conjunction 

with the series and we were so pleased with the 

effectiveness of last season's sponsorship 

activities. 

"We are very excited to increase the level of 

our support for the series to become the official 

number plate and autograph sponsor in 2009. 

Chris Roche, CEO Biante Model Cars said, 

"The Touring Car Masters has proven to be a 

very successful vehicle to promote the Biante 

brand. 

"The series has gone from strength to 

strength throughout its first two seasons and, 

now heading into our third year together, we 

are confident that the popularity and profile of 

the category will continue to rise. 

"We are delighted by the success of our 

relationship and look forward to enjoying 

another outstanding season as the title 

sponsor of the Biante Touring Car Masters." 

"We are very excited to increase the level of 

our support for the series to become the 

official number plate and autograph sponsor 

in 2009." 

Paul Gates, National Sales Manager 

Shannons Insurance, added, "The racing in the 

Biante Touring Car Masters is as exciting as it 

gets. 

"It's one of the few categories that really has 

some door-to-door racing and the cars get 

sideways, which makes for a great spectacle. 

"The series really fits into our heartland 

market of classic motor vehicles. In many 

cases, motoring enthusiasts enjoy motor racing 

and, in particular, the classic style racing seen 

in the Biante Touring Car Masters.” 


PRTC 

ONE JOINS AUTO ONE IN 

SUPPORTING DRAGS 

ONE PLUS TWO EQUALS HISTORIC ANNOUNCEMENT FOR AUSTRALIAN DRAG RACING 

ANDRA Championship Drag Racing is delighted to announce the next developmental step for the sport’s 

continued mainstream emergence, with an exclusive three year television broadcasting rights 

relationship with Network Ten and its new 24-hour sports channel, ONE. 

Spokesperson for ANDRA Championship Drag 

Racing, Tony Beuk, confirmed, “It’s a great 

outcome. ANDRA Championship Drag Racing has 

been building momentum in the last 18 months 

and this is one of the most significant 

developments in the sport’s history. 

“Our partnership with Network Ten, through 

ONE, is an integrated solution to our 

communication and media activities and we are 

delighted to be working with ONE for the next three 

years.” 

Network Ten's General Manager of Sport David 

White said, "The response to ONE since its launch 

on March 26 has been outstanding. We're very 

excited to be adding ANDRA Championship Drag 

Racing to our ever-expanding portfolio of motorsport, 

which is unrivalled on Australian FTA television. We 

look forward to delivering this emerging category to 

broader audience than ever before." 

The new ONE agreement will take 

Championship Drag Racing television exposure to 

a whole new level, which includes 32 one hour 

episodes in a regular timeslot at 1:30pm, with 

coverage increasing to 40 hours over the next three 

years. 

On the back of the landmark announcement of 

the three-year television arrangement with ONE 

HD, ANDRA Championship Drag Racing also 

unveiled two major sponsors for the 2009/2010 

championship season. 

ANDRA Championship Drag Racing will now be 

‘presented by’ Auto One and ENZED, with both 

companies substantially increasing their 

investment into Australian drag racing. 

The historic sponsorship announcement comes 

after a successful commercial push over the last 

12 months by ANDRA which has seen the likes of 

Shannons Insurance, Harley-Davidson, Rare 

Spares, Karcher, Fuchs and Snap-on join the 

ranks. The investment made by Auto One and 

ENZED is the most significant drag racing has seen 

since the glory days of tobacco sponsorship over 

20 years ago. 

“It really has been a massive few months for 

ANDRA Championship Drag Racing, not only have 

we secured a substantial new TV arrangement with 

ONE HD but to have Auto One and ENZED up their 

stakes to become the first platform sponsors of the 

championship is very pleasing,” said ANDRA 

Commercial spokesperson, Dale Brittain. 

“Both Auto One and Enzed put their toes in the 

water this season, which clearly has been 

successful for them. The decision to make the bold 

move to a platform sponsor of the ANDRA 

Championship is a credit to the vision of Peter 

Henry from Auto One and Kevin Spiteri from 

ENZED and to our own marketing and sponsorship 

team.” 

“It’s no coincidence that the announcement of 

the ONE HD TV arrangements coincides with Auto 

One and ENZED declaring their increased stakes. 

Both sponsors will have a greater presence on 

Network Ten and ONE HD over the coming 12 

months. All in all, it’s a great integrated package 

and one that will cement drag racing in this 

country,” Mr Brittain concluded. 

Marketing Manager for Parker Hannifin 

(incorporating ENZED), Kevin Spiteri said, “Having 

mainstream television presence is important. Our 

involvement with ANDRA allows us the opportunity 

to be branded on a national level in both regional 

and metropolitan areas. For us that’s very exciting. 

“Being the ‘presented by’ sponsors for the 

entire championship is a great opportunity. ENZED 

aims to grow its brand recognition nationally and 

focus towards its ‘On Time, Anytime Guarantee’ as 

well as promote the great opportunities associated 

with becoming an ENZED Hose Doctor,” Mr Spiteri 

added. 

Peter Henry, Auto One General Manager said, 

“Auto One is very happy with what we have 

achieved through our association with the ANDRA 

Championship Series. The move to ONE completes 

our goals to increase our national marketing to all 

metropolitan cities and continue to support the 

series as we believe strongly that the sport will 

continue to emerge, as will Auto One.” 

ARMOR ALL 

INCREASES 

INVESTEMENT IN 

V8 SUPERCARS 

Australia’s leading car care product 

supplier Armor All has re-invested in the 

V8 Supercar Championship Series with a 

new two-year deal that includes 

sponsorship of six events in the Series. 

Armor All will continue as the Official 

Car Care products of the V8 Supercar 

Championship Series as well as extending 

its association with the sport and its 

growing events arm. 

The re-introduction of a Shootout 

format has led to Armor All attaining the 

naming rights sponsorship of the sudden 

death qualifying as well as retaining the 

Armor All Pole Position and Armor All 

Qualifying. 

Armor All will also continue as the 

Official Car Care products of the Supercheap 

Auto Bathurst 1000, the L&H 500 at Phillip 

Island, Falken Tasmania Challenge and 

Norton 360 Sandown Challenge. The two 

key inclusions on the 2009 calendar – the 

Sydney 500 and Townsville 400 - will also 

carry the Armor All sponsorship. 

“We are excited by the return of the 

Shootout and this will make Armor All 

qualifying a must see for all fans at each 

event,” Armor All Marketing & Channel 

Manager, Paul Blair, said. 

“The Armor All sponsorship of the two 

new races in Sydney and Townsville will 

continue the Armor All association with 

great V8Supercar racing. 

“Armor All is the only brand offering a 

complete car care range endorsed by the 

V8 Supercar Championship Series.” 

V8 Supercars Australia CEO Cameron 

Levick said, “To have Armor All on board 

for the re-introduction of the Shootout adds 

to the excitement of the extensive format 

changes as a whole. 

“Armor All is one of our most valued 

and active sponsors. There is a clear 

synergy between V8 Supercars and Armor 

All in that both are enormously proud of 

they way they present themselves in the 

market place.” 


4WD 

ARB Geelong, located at 157 Fyans Street 

in Victoria and ARB Maroochydore, situated at 

1/127 Sugar Road in Queensland, are officially 

now open for business. Offering expert 

knowledge and ARB's extensive range of 

products, both stores are well set up to prepare 

4WDers for any off road adventure. 

ARB Geelong, known formerly as Geelong 

4WD Centre, is owned and operated by a third 

generation family synonymous with automotive 

services in Geelong for 75 years. ARB 

Maroochydore, previously operating as 

Northcoast 4x4 Accessories, is also an 

established business and renowned for its 

exceptional service and 4WD experience. 

Further contributing to ARB's expansion, 

The simple fact of the matter is that this is 

not technically correct. This system 

incorporates twin starting batteries, parallel 

wired to act as one big battery for extreme cold 

starting conditions rather than the combination 

of a deep cycle battery and a starting battery 

wired separately through a battery management 

unit found in the true dual battery system. 

There are several reasons these vehicles are 

set up with two starting batteries. Many 

vehicles are built for a world-wide market, it is 

more economically viable for manufacturers to 

build one spec for all markets. This means a 

vehicle sold in very cold climates that requires 

high cranking amps will have two batteries to 

do the same job as a vehicle sold in a hot 

country such as Africa. Countries such as 

Australia get a second battery that is not really 

required in the warmer areas such as the 

Northern Territory or Queensland however is 

valuable in colder areas such as Melbourne and 

Tassie. 

Having twin starting batteries provides very 

high CCA (Cold Cranking Amps) to fire up an 

engine with extreme cold climate goodies such 

as throttle body heaters and other extreme cold 

start mechanisms found in vehicles like the 

200 Series Toyota. 

Typically these twin battery engines 

generate about 1000 CCA to turn over the 

engine. There are very few batteries on the 

market that can produce this amount of CCA 

singly, especially OE (Original Equipment) 

batteries. There are also some countries where 

1000CCA batteries are simply not available for 

NEW ARB STORES 

Despite the current financial situation, ARB, a proudly Australian owned company, is defying the odds and expanding by welcoming on 

board two new ARB stores, while extensive growth has also resulted in another two established stores being relocated to larger premises. 

two previously established stores have recently 

relocated to new premises. Having outgrown 

their previous locations due to customer 

demand, larger premises will allow each store 

to carry a more comprehensive product range 

and offer even greater service. Located at 27 

Elizabeth Way in South Australia, ARB Gawler 

has now become ARB Elizabeth, while ARB 

Mackay has moved to the new address of 9 

Caterpillar Drive in Paget, Queensland. 

These new stores will bring even more 

expertise into ARB's large network of stockists 

around the country, offering outstanding service 

by friendly and experienced staff, many of 

whom are 4WD enthusiasts. Stocking the 

complete ARB range from bull bars and 

replacement purposes whereas virtually every 

country would have a 500CCA battery to 

replace a battery that has died. 

Another smart way of doing things from the 

manufacturer’s stand point is that supplying 

two 500CCA rated batteries either side of the 

radiator is a great way to spread the weight of 

a heavy item evenly in the engine bay. 

Problems start when owners buy a twin 

battery 4WD and think that they can hook up 

fridges, extra lights and more and then run into 

problems because the starting batteries die 

from being drained too far. After investigation 

the owner realises that what they have is extra 

starting boost rather than the capacity to run 

electrical equipment. Once a starting battery 

has been drained four or five times it is 

generally cactus and will require replacement. 

There are a range of options on the market 

to upgrade and modify a vehicle with a twin 

battery system. The simplest and most cost 

effective option is a conversion where a third 

battery and tray is fitted along with an 

electronically compatible battery management 

system. This keeps the electrical system and 

the engine bay relatively standard. 

Many people ask, “Why can’t we separate 

the two batteries into a dual battery system?” 

The answer is many fold and worth considering 

in detail. For starters there’s the cost. A very 

high cranking amp battery for starting will be 

needed which will be around a 1000CCA 

American spiral wound AGM battery about 

$600 plus a good quality Aussie made deep 

cycle battery at around $240. Then the factory 

protection equipment, to ARB Air Lockers and 

Old Man Emu suspension, ARB stores also 

stock a selection of other items aimed at 

making any off road adventure more enjoyable. 

WHEN ARE TWIN BATTERIES NOT DUAL BATTERIES? 

There are many new 4WDs coming out on the market that have two batteries fitted under the bonnet and are described as a dual battery vehicle. 

wiring will need to be modified plus a 

compatible dual battery management system 

will need to be fitted. There is then two good 

starting batteries sitting around doing nothing 

which are virtually worthless. Most importantly 

creating this system will void the factory 

warranty on some major electrical components. 

The above scenario might be an option to 

consider when the vehicle is out of warranty 

and the main cranking batteries are requiring 

replacement, however there is also an issue of 

safety to consider. Many people think that 

because the 79 Series Ute and the later 100 

Series are the same engine, they can run with 

just one battery as the 79 Series does, however 

they have different engine hardware such as 

the warmers previously mentioned which are 

connected into the ECU. Start modifying the 

electrical system and there is a very real 

chance of the engine not starting. Cold weather 

and low oxygen have the same effect on an 

engine and if a single battery is fitted and the 

conditions are right the engine might not start 

which could lead to all manner of disaster. 

The bottom line is to apply common sense 

when creating a complete touring vehicle and 

ensure it can handle all electrical needs from 

running extra lights, a fridge or even a shower. 

This is where Piranha can step in with a fully 

integrated dual battery system to suit twin 

battery vehicles. 

For more information call the Piranha team 

on 03 9762 1200 or visit the website at 

www.piranhaoffroad.com.au 


4WD 

NEW MAXI-TRAC 4WD 

SUSPENSION KITS 

AVAILABLE FROM REPCO 

Repco presents four-wheel-drive owners with a brand new, 

technically advanced and precision engineered suspension 

replacement solution with the introduction of 

Maxi-Trac 4WD Suspension Kits. 

Suspension lifts and upgrades 

are in ever increasing demand 

within the 4WD aftermarket, but 

available choices have been 

somewhat limited in terms of 

complete suspension kit solutions 

to cover a broad range of popular 

4WD applications. 

This is where Repco's 

exclusive Maxi-Trac 4WD 

Suspension Kits come to the fore, 

offering the complete 4WD 

suspension replacement solution 

in a kit with one major advantage 

over all existing kits in the 

aftermarket. All Maxi-Trac 4WD 

Suspension Kits include greasable 

shackles and pins (applicable to 

suspension type). 

Relative to the specific type of 

suspension, all Maxi-Trac 4WD 

Suspension Kits include shock 

absorbers or struts, leaf springs, 

coil springs or torsion bars, spring 

eye bushes, U-bolts, greasable 

shackles and pins plus a fitting / 

safety guide. 

All Maxi-Trac 4WD Suspension 

Kits include high quality products 

that have been designed and 

tested to cope with harsh 

Australian off road conditions. The 

Maxi-Trac 4WD Suspension Kit 

contents – the shock absorbers, 

springs and all ancillary items, 

have been engineered to 

complement each other. Most 

importantly, the shock absorber 

valving length, spring rates and 

heights have been developed to 

fully complement each other when 

fitted. This ensures a long service 

life and optimum ride control in 

all on and off road conditions 

Further to this outstanding new 

Repco 4WD product range, a twoyear 

or 40,000 kilometre warranty 

is also provided with all Maxi-Trac 

4WD Suspension Kits. The initial 

range includes applications to suit 

the most popular Toyota, Nissan, 

Mitsubishi and Holden 4WD 

models. 

Repco has ensured that this 

exclusive Maxi-Trac Suspension 

Kit offer is priced competitively, 

while providing outstanding ride 

comfort and safety through 

reduced body roll and improved 

handling. Other advantages of 

fitment include increased lift, 

optimum towing performance and 

support for accessories such as 

bull bars and winches. 

Contact Repco on 133 227 

STYLE AND PRACTICALITY 

IN ONE TRAY! 

Rola has introduced its Large Vortex luggage tray that has been 

designed specifically with 4WD vehicles in mind. 

The new Vortex 

Luggage Tray offers 

optimum style and 

strength with a black 

powder coated steel 

tray. The tray provides 

the maximum roof 

storage space with an 

interior size of 1507mm x 1108mm x 110mm, while the moulded 

deflector on the front provides minimal wind resistance when in use. 

It is compatible with Rola and other major brands for both two bar and 

three bar roof rack systems, the Large Vortex is ideal for carrying roof 

bags or any other luggage. 

Whatever your roof storage needs, Rola has them covered. 

Rola is available from Rola distributors nationwide. 

To find your nearest dealer, please visit www.rola.com.au 


RETAIL 

REPCO LAUNCHES IMPROVED NAVIGATOR SYSTEM 

In response to customer feedback Repco has released an updated version of its trade customer online parts sourcing 

and ordering system with the release of Repco Navigator 1.1. 

Repco revolutionised trade customer 

online parts locating, ordering, invoicing 

and delivery with the introduction of the 

Repco Navigator online parts ordering 

system 10 months ago. In this interim 

period, Repco has listened to its trade 

customers and enhanced the Repco 

Navigator user experience. 

A list of the improvements follow: A 

new vehicle search box has been added to 

further assist in locating the exact make 

and model for the parts required. This 

addition links each make and 

model to a product tree where a 

shopping list also appears for 

the customer to select the parts. 

Each product tree is up to four 

levels deep and this is signified 

by a plus (+) symbol to the left 

of an entry. This new function 

also enables exact part 

identification and makes the 

whole process faster by showing 

the differences in makes, 

models, series, engines, 

transmissions, body types and 

drive types. The customer can 

therefore hone in on the exact model 

required faster. 

Repco has also added a back-tracking 

function. This allows trade customers to 

quickly recall vehicles that have been 

selected during a current Navigator 

session, making the process of back- 

A big two-day event to celebrate new management taking over 

the Autobarn store in Kawana Waters, Queensland, has 

proven to be a raging success. 

Despite threatening rain over the two-day event in February, 

sunny skies greeted shoppers on day one and the car park was 

instantly packed with locals keen to pick up a bargain and check 

out the range of displays on hand. 

Australian drag racing legend Victor Bray and his equallyspeedy 

son Ben were on hand on the Saturday with their Castrol 

EDGE drag car to meet customers and gave them more than they 

expected when Ben started up the roaring drag machine’s engine 

for all to hear. 

Fat Pizza and Swing & Shift SBS TV stars Pauly and Kev The 

Kiwi also added great humour to the day, which also featured the 

SEAFM Cruisers and BBQ and face painting for the kids. 

The TV comedians – and regulars in Autobarn advertisements 

on television around the country – proved to be a hit, although 

they did receive a visit from the local police to keep them in order! 

tracking to locate the correct or alternate 

part(s) much easier. 

Once a Repco trade customer has 

added the products required to their 

shopping list, a simple hit of the display 

parts button will provide full catalogue, 

manufacturer and pricing information for 

each of the products listed. Items can be 

removed from a customer's online 

shopping list at any time and conversely, 

multiple items can be added as required 

by using the control button. 

The final improvement will assist when 

a specific part cannot be located online. A 

phone number will appear for the trade 

customer to contact a Repco store manager 

who may be able to order the required part 

from other sources. This ensures a solution 

can always be found to best service 

NEW MANAGEMENT WELCOMED 

Repco's highly valued trade customers. 

Repco's exclusive Navigator online parts 

sourcing and ordering system's main 

advantages include: 

• Reduces time wasting phone calls 

searching for parts and components 

during working hours; 

• Reduces costs – workshops only need 

to stock what is absolutely required; 

• Fast access – Navigator allows all Repco 

trade account customers to access the 

entire Repco parts inventory system 

(some 175,000 part numbers) 

within seconds; 

• Greater efficiency – general 

repairers can order parts for the next 

day's job list outside of business 

hours and gain fast delivery of all the 

parts needed. 

The Repco Navigator online parts 

ordering system is the way forward 

to a more profitable and highly 

efficient future for automotive 

repairers and re-sellers across 

Australia. 

Access to Repco Navigator 

requires an active Repco trade 

account and registration. 

More information can be found 

online at www.repco.com.au 

Repco Navigator can be accessed via 

Repco's all new trade customer specific 

website www.repcotrade.com.au 

Pauly even went as far as to make a bus load of Brisbanebound 

people pull over and talk to him, helping to ensure the 

Kawana Waters event was something very different from the norm!

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