automotive refinisher july-august 2015

T H E V O I C E O F T H E I N D U S T R Y

July-August 2015

UTOMOTIVEAUTOMOTIVEAEdition 180

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TAKATA AIRBAG STORY

NEW PRODUCTS

CURING TIME

CHIP FOOSE INTERVIEW

IN THIS ISSUEISLE OF MAN TTISLE OF MAN TT IMPERIAL TRAININGCENTRE

QUANTUM SHIFTFOR SES’FIKILE

IMPERIAL TRAININGCENTRE

IBIS ATHENS

IN THIS ISSUE

IBISATHENS

QUANTUM SHIFTFOR SES’FIKILE

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We thank you for providing us with the opportunity to introduce ourdynamic service offerings and present to you a vision for simplicity,success and sustainability.

The CRA has evolved as an organisation with passion, understandingand the will to provide results to our esteemed members from the basisof being a voice to the auto body collision industry. We employconsultants and are associated with people suitably qualified in all aspectsof collision repair and related business management skills with highintegrity and willing to offer their support to ensuring the success of yourfacilities.

Our objectives are issues the proactive body shop owner does notreally have the time to concentrate on to ensure the optimisation of theirbusiness. The constant changes in the law, support in compliance withstatutory requirements, relationship mentoring with government andinsurers on selection criteria with regards to financial allowances onmark-up and labour rates as well as aiding consumer choice on serviceexpectation. Further hereto our aim is to provide technical support andtraining on advancements in collision repair techniques and newequipment investment advice.

To date the CRA has achieved significant change with benefits and areon the road to create market awareness which in the short term willemulate consumer appreciation not previously evident in our local market.Our mission will ensure via procedural compliance that our forum willenforce a code of conduct that covers consumer protection, work forcemotivation and job security and ultimately peace of mind to businessowners on secure, and beneficial return on investment. We have alsoconcluded annual inflationary labour rate increases with a major insurer

Enjoy the recognitionyou deserve.

T h e b e n c h m a r k o f q u a l i t yC a l l u s o n 0 8 6 1 7 2 6 2 7 2 o r V i s i t w w w . c r a s a . o r g . z a

including labour rate allowances above the rate which individualrepairers would normally be able to achieve independently and thusextended as a financial benefit to approved members. This will beprotracted via further meetings to almost all the other major insurersin the short term.

As with any Association annual membership fees are payable tocover administration costs and our membership is based on gradingstatus. Further hereto our membership is extended to equipment andservice related suppliers whom have a similar vision of business ethic.These include at present paint suppliers, a BEEE accreditation agency,an authorised health and safety compliance consultant, quoting andbusiness management software suppliers and high end workshopequipment suppliers. This will also result in better service, supportand preferential rates on association.

We provide an on-line E Procure business data profile of membersto support recognition for independent role players in every area ofactivity in the collision repair industry. The platform will provideassistance to work providers and consumers with accident damagedvehicles to make educated decisions in allowing the most professionalrepairer the opportunity of refurbishment within acceptable timeframes and in line with warranty reinstatement protocols.

In conclusion we trust you can see the benefit of belonging to ourAssociation and look forward to the synergy we can create by ourproviding valued service and more importantly ensuring yourenthusiasm and input is shared with other members at organisedevents of our approved panel.

JOIN THE CRA AND GET THE RECOGNITION YOU DESERVE!

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Front Cover:Lexus LF-SA ConceptContents: Acropolis of Athens, Greece

30 YEARS ONWith One Aim 4THE NECESSITY FOR MIOSAWhat’s Hot? 7IBIS CONFERENCE REVIEWAthens 10QUANTUM SHIFTNew Taxi Line 18CHIP FOOSEInterview 24IMPERIAL TRAININGAcademy 30ISLE OF MAN TT Races 34DID YOU HEAR?Roger McCleery 42TAKATA AIRBAGSA Corporate Disgrace 52SPECIALISED HEATINGBuild Big 76NEW PRODUCTSNew Products Review 80

30 YEARS ONWith One Aim 4THE NECESSITY FOR MIOSAWhat’s Hot? 7IBIS CONFERENCE REVIEWAthens 10QUANTUM SHIFTNew Taxi Line 18CHIP FOOSEInterview 24IMPERIAL TRAININGAcademy 30ISLE OF MAN TT Races 34DID YOU HEAR?Roger McCleery 42TAKATA AIRBAGSA Corporate Disgrace 52SPECIALISED HEATINGBuild Big 76NEW PRODUCTSNew Products Review 80

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CONTENTS J-A 2015_Layout 1 2015/07/17 11:19 AM Page 1

Three decades of keeping collisionrepairers happy is a big mission forthis aging hack. It seems like just afew years ago that I got a bee in my

bonnet about trying to create some sort ofcommunication to introducing a few of thelatest methods of car repair to the SouthAfrican market.

In our shared pastime of collision repairbefore the advent of the marvellousinternet, the quest and merry hunt for thefastest, newest and most efficient methodsfor car repair has taken me around theworld a few times.

The part of self appointed industry gurublew away some of my best years on thisconstant ceaseless crusade. In that time Ihave met some equally excellent executivesfrom the body repair refinish supply andindependent trade leaders who alwayssupplied knowledge that was pertinent,useful and humbling.

In those three decades this magazine hasproved to be part of a small number ofworld class publications. We have tried tobring the best content practices, as well asthe most obscure trade news and updatesthat we feel you always need.

It’s amazing just how good the local bodyshop business has become since our startup edition of July-August 1985. The days ofone pack paint finishes, panels with themetal wall thickness of tanks are long goneand forgotten. Don’t use your acetylenetorch in car repair today, it will result in

disaster and an irate car owner as things nolonger fall apart on the world car you arerepairing. Everyone’s a specialist inmanufacturer approval, small area repair andsalvage sales.

In this brief moment of navel gazing aswe stare back to some of the first basicallymade Automotive Refinishers, it’s clear tosee that we have both come a long way.

For you it has been a life of endlessrebuilds, for us, a quest to keep the comicup to speed at all times. In the twinkling ofan unseen eye the time has come for me toturn over the reins of success to mytalented family and staff. We still producethis document at home and have neverbeen late in all our efforts to keep abreast ofthe trade news. We get armfuls ofcompliments on the way the magazine lookstoday, as well as how important it is to ourreaders, which makes us proud.

For this latest edition, I have been toGreece to attend the world body shopconference, IBIS, and taken a couple ofweeks out at the Isle of Man - to act myshoe size and not my age - and flexed thecamera lens a great deal to try and trap theperfect piece of frozen time in pictures ofthe amazing TT motorcycle races.

My life continues to run the same way itsgoing for chicken man, that of doing anawful lot of running around squawking andflapping but never quite getting airborne.

I’m sure you recognise this life scenarioand what else are we meant to do? I’m

probably going to scribble on secretly forquite awhile. I’m not done yet. The irrationalpassion for leading a way forward forAfrican body repair is quite a daft andmotivating interest for all at the magazine.So thanks for the memories and yes, we didmake a diference over all that time.

There’s something to be said that we stillhave people with us that placed advertisingin the first edition. We have also supportedour printing team for 30 years too -somewhat unheard of today. It seems thatthere is still a place in today’s commercialcraziness where honour, integrity and goodold fashion honesty still have a place.

Where Were We 30 years Ago?Thirty years ago the number one hit in

August was “Shout”, by Tears for Fears andthe top movie for 1985 was “Out of Africa.”

Ian was in the trench warfare of refinishpaint sales and starting a magazine despitehaving a postage stamp size education.

Val was running Colour Creations, raisinga family and completing the juggling act ofkeeping the accounts intact.

Claire was 11 years old and at primaryschool and dreaming of becoming a primaballerina.

Jay was 6 years old and at primaryschool and trying to hide from all the girlswho wanted to kiss him.

Nataschja was 21 and at University andwondering what the world had in store forher.

PUbliSHing NEWS

30 YEARS ON, THEBUSINESS IS STIllSTANDING

4R E F I N I S H E RUTOMOTIVEAAUTOMOTIVE

aCHiEVEMEnTS

Telephone : +27 (0)11 949 4091

Facs imi le : +27 (0)11 252 6844

Emai l : au tore f@ia fr i ca .com

Websi te : www.auto re f .co .za

Publ isher: Ian Groat

Ed ito r : C la ire Mac f ie

Accounts : Va l Groat

Design : Jay Groat

CT Correspondent : Dave Fa l l

Techn ica l Ed itor : Andrew Marsh

The views expressed inarticles in AutomotiveRefinisher are those of theauthors and shall not beconstrued to represent thoseof the Editor or the Publisher.Accordingly, AutomotiveRefinisher accepts noresponsibility for claims andstatements made byadvertisers and independentcolumnists. Further, theappearance of advertisementsherein does not necessarilyindicate the approval byAutomotive Refinisher for theproduct and/or serviceadvertised. Material may notbe reproduced in any formwithout the written consentof the Publisher. AutomotiveRefinisher is dedicated toservicing the businessinterests of the collision repairindustry.A U S T R A L I A

U N I T E D K I N G D O M

IN ASSOCIATION WITH:

R E F I N I S H E R

AR J-A 2015 CLAIRE_NOV/DEC 2005 paganation 2015/07/16 12:25 PM Page 23

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We had the pleasure of enjoying some early Springweather this month in Athens at the IBISconference. We had been told only to arrive withcash because of the impending economic woes.

The visit was once again proof positive that we don’t live in aCNN or BBC television world of constant doom and gloom andafter five days of visiting, the Hilton Hotel proved to be faultless,sight-seeing was perfect and eating out and general shopping wasa great success.

Greece Did Not Fail On Its Own – It Was MadeTo Fail

The Banksters and financial markets have wreaked havoc onGreece’s economy and currency as they were deliberately andmaliciously pushed into unrecoverable debt structures while theirnational assets that generated revenue were sold off systematicallyto oligarchs and international corporations. If you like a goodconspiracy story.

Starting off badly for Greece first came the collapse andfinancial crisis of 2008. Probably a brainchild of already ruined WallStreet bankers who were in a start up phase of selling worthlesssub-prime mortgages to anyone breathing. They packaged upthere ticking time bombs of supposedly financial help and soldthem as mortage backed securities across the world.

Helped on by yet another arm in this financial criminal scam areother banking operations. Of these are the group of ratingagencies like S and P, Fitch and Moodys who gave stellar ratings tothe destined to fail financial products to gullible pension funds andmunicipalities and desperate countries across Europe. So with thefirst piece of the financial scam in place they sat comfortably as theworlds’ financial system went into free fall. In a matter of weeks oncapital markets, Goldman Sachs profited enormously along withLehman Brothers (who later were to collapse) and MutualPaulson.

The Banker Bail-Out ScamLoaning hundreds of millions of American tax payers dollar

money from the very people they had ruined in life was the nextbanksters’ ploy along with trillions from the Federal Reserve Bank.They were flush enough to donate a new 30 billion dollar loan toonce again bail out the Greek people. Then in another relatedmove the Greek banks forced the government to accept themassive debt payments package while they systematicallydowngraded their government bonds in 2009. This resulted inincreased borrowing costs and they toppled in terms ofrepayment interest costs to bring Greece to its knees, gainingthem a profit of 110 Billion Euro’s in another big rip-off,

By 2011 the banks owned the political high ground and whengovernment refused to accept more austerity measures onanother bail out deal, the finance minister got his marching ordersonly to be replaced by a tame vice president of the ECB CentralBank.

The new financial move in November 2011 saw the financialpuppet masters turning up the yields to 50% levels to give thegovernment no alternative but to agree to a second massivebailout, larger than the first one with strings attached, likeprivatisation of Greece’s assets so that the rape and humiliation ofthe nation could gather momentum. So away went water,electricity, post offices, airport services, telecommunications, andother business ventures to big corporations and key overseasbusiness interests.

The Next Move: Government Revenues FallWith these key assets no longer delivering revenue with

pension tax contributions cut by half, the end game result hasbeen that in a nation where only a very small percentage ofpeople pay any form of income tax (much the same as SouthAfrica) the result right now is seeing a financial calamity worsethan the great depression in the US in the 1930’s. All this while TVshows and presenters spew out the banksters’ propaganda, muchlike George Orwell’s famous novel, Animal Farm, on a slaveryunder austerity theme.

Courage comes to the front, however, as Greece has juststopped any further intrusion into their national independencefrom big business and corrupt politicians with a ‘No’ vote for nomore austerity measures and it’s assumed that they will be a primemover to become a member nation of the all new Brics bankingsystem being launched in Russia later this month (July, 2015).

Armed now with the might of Latin America, Russia, China,Africa and other nations that have been systematicallydisenfranchised by the American dollar and Euro financialmarkets,. Maybe the drive to replace the resultant heavilymanipulated dollar world, these new currencies could assistdeveloping economies with a term of stability on our exchangerate controls. A twenty-to-one Rand against the Pound Sterlingsurely the game is up for us and Greece and our ailing economygoing fowards.

It must be time for a change to rid our financial marketexploitation using the same old tools of debt – austerity – andprivatisation gibberish that’s collectively ruined once-robusteconomies like Spain, Italy, Portugal and Ireland, amongst others.

The final accommodation granted to Greece in the latest 86Billion Euro bailout deal is just another way of kicking the candown the road for another three years and a bout of crucificationfor the Greek Prime Minister Tsipras. One day in the real worldthe Brics Bank may rise up and shake off those Dollar and Eurobased financial dogma’s of the greedy and crooked banksterstyranny to roll out a new international currency to end thefinancial markets grip that is the current scenario on themanipulation of our own Rand value. Bring it on, the sooner thebetter.

FRONTLINE EDITORIAL - by Ian Groat

the Giant GreeK FinaniCialponZi sCheMe unraVels


WHAT’S HOT?

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From a humble start 15 years ago, withtwo people in the office, the MotorIndustry Ombudsman of South Africa(MIOSA), a non-profit organisation,

now boasts a staff compliment of 45 andhandles up to and over 4000 calls a month.Approximately 8% of these complaintscover body queries. The office has a greattrack record for sorting out consumerproblems amicably and has been a great helpto thousands of suppliers, dealers,consumers and manufacturers alike.

With the South African Department ofJustice being overloaded and the courtsstretched to their limits, Government asearly as 1998 realised that alternative disputeresolution would have to be established inorder to assist the courts in dispensingjustice as required by South Africa’s worldrenowned Constitution.

The model favoured by Government wasthat of Industry Ombudsmen. The reasonfor this was that when the ConsumerProtection Act No. 68 of 2008 (Act) waspromulgated it was soon realised that, eventhough well written and progressive, itcovered too wide a scope to allow for theknowledgeable industry specific justice to bedispensed. With this in mind, industryspecific Ombudsmen were established withthe help and financial support of thedifferent industries that make up the SouthAfrican economy.

To ensure that the model chosen as asuitable alternative dispute resolutionplatform, Ombudsmen offices werevoluntary organisations and did not havestatutory powers to enforce rulings.However, where industries have placedthemselves voluntarily under the jurisdiction

of their Industry Ombudsman this very rarelyposed a problem and disputes wereresolved normally amicably amongst theparties.

However, to ensure that the Act provideadequate protection for both consumersand service providers it was soon clear thatregulations will have to be drawn up tosupport the Act. The best solution was toallow the different industries that make upthe South African economy to draw upindustry codes that would complement andexplain the Act to the consumer and serviceprovider alike.

The South African Motor Industry waschosen to draw up the very first industryspecific Code of Conduct. The processstarted in 2009, and after six years of debateand great expense, the South AfricanAutomotive Industry Code of Conduct wasfinally written into Law as gazetted by theHonourable Minister of Trade and Industrieson the 17th October 2014.

Under the definition of the motorindustry all service providers are now underthe jurisdiction of the Motor IndustryOmbudsman of South Africa (MIOSA) and

this will ensure that both industry serviceproviders and consumers will receive justicein the form of dispute resolution that isindustry knowledgeable, fair to all parties,cost effective and above all impartial.

In order to assure the effectiveness of theMIOSA, it presented industry with a budgetthat was duly audited, presented andaccepted by the Industry and Government.Even though the levy to the office of theMIOSA has now become a legalrequirement, it was also realised that to keepthe financial burden on Industry as low aspossible, it is crucial for the Industry toregister as a matter of urgency to ensurethat the levy remain as low as possible witheven the possibility of further reductions asthe support base grows. The surplus fromthis fund will be used to make futurepayments less for each registered user.

As an industry, let’s work together toensure that industry and consumers receivethe justice and treatment that we all ascitizens of South Africa deserve.

Visit www.miosa.co.za for more details orto register.

The BMW Group’s Rosslyn Plant in Midrand, Johannesburg,was awarded the Platinum Plant Quality Award in the J.D.Power 2015 Initial Quality Study (IQS) for producing BMW3 Series models with the fewest defects or malfunctions.

Plant Rosslyn last received this award in 2002 with an IQS score of85 pp100 (problems per 100 vehicles surveyed).

The BMW brand also ranked 6th overall among the nameplateswith 99 PP100, a 9 point improvement from 2014. PP100 is the J.D.Power standard measurement of problems per 100 vehicles. The2015 industry average is 112 PP100.

In addition to Plant Rosslyn’s award, three BMW models – theBMW 2 Series, BMW 4 Series and BMW 5 Series – were also thetop ranked vehicles in their categories in the J.D. Power 2015 IQS.The BMW 2 Series was the Highest Ranked Small Premium Car; theBMW 4 Series was the Highest Ranked Compact Premium Car; andthe BMW 5 Series was the Highest Ranked Midsize Premium Car.Additionally, the BMW 7 Series was ranked 2nd in the LargePremium Car segment.

The 2015 J.D. Power U.S. Initial Quality Study is based onresponses from more than 84,000 purchasers and lessees of new

2015 model-year vehicles surveyed after 90 days of ownership. Thestudy was fielded between February and May 2015.

“We are delighted about Plant Rosslyn being awarded thisprestigious international award. It is a true testament to the quality,craftsmanship and excellence we strive for in the production of eachof our BMW 3 Series Sedan vehicles,” says Tim Abbott, ManagingDirector of BMW Group South Africa.

Plant Rosslyn, situated north of Pretoria, was the BMW Group’sfirst foreign plant in 1973 and represents a cornerstone of the BMWGroup’s global production network with presently 30 sites in 14countries. The plant currently produces the BMW 3 Series Sedan forlocal and export markets around the world. In 2014, BMW 3 SeriesSedan exports from Plant Rosslyn increased by over 17% to 68,771– which clearly solidified BMW South Africa’s position as thecountry’s leading exporter of premium vehicles. Furthermore, inFebruary this year, Plant Rosslyn reached a remarkable milestonewhen the one-millionth vehicle rolled off the assembly line.

More information about the J.D. Power 2015 Initial Quality Study(IQS) can be found at www.jdpower.com/quality

inDUSTRY NEWS

THE NECESSITY fORTHE MIOSA OffICE


WHaT’S HoT?

BMW ROSSlYN AWARDED PlATINUM QUAlITY AWARD

j.D PoWER 2015


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Story and pics by Ian Groat


thouGhts oneVolutionthrouGhCollaBoration

IBIS 2015 ATHENS GREECE

This years’ international gatheringfor IBIS on collision repair tookplace over three days in Athens. Itattracted a record delegate list

from across the globe. As the Africanpublishing partner since the inception over adecade ago Automotive Refinisher Magazinewent along to examine their ‘Thoughts onevolution through collaboration’, the themeof this year’s event.

The conference this year was held inAthens, which showed up none of theexpected basket case CNN characteristicsby proving to be absolutely faultless as asponsoring hotel venue. The Hilton pulledout all the stops on the first evening with acocktail conference. Attendees weregreeted with warm late evening sunshine 13floors above the picturesque setting andable to gaze at the Parthenon quite freely allnight long. The session is given over to thenetworking for both speaking sponsors andkey delegates to catch up on industrydevelopments.

Jake O’Neal welcomed everybody and

3 4

opened the IBIS conference. Some smallchanges to the running order wereannounced before David Lingham,conference director explained the thinkingbehind the ‘Evolution’ theme for the two-day actual conference and thanked thesupporting sponsorships from 3M,AlzoNobel, Audatex, EMM, Altaxa and FixAuto.

Sean Carey dealt with fundamentalchanges in the market that are appearing onthe horizon from SCG Management. As thekeynote speaker he looked at the rapiddevelopment of the connected car, trends ofinsurance and vehicle makers moving closertogether for new drives on sales activity.

Whole new methodologies on theclaims processes and what if the vehiclemade the damage claim, growing changes inmarket strategies as Google now sellsinsurance in the US market and Toyotabuying through a third party insurance boxwere also discussed. While in the UKmarket the world’s largest diversified stockmarket company Berkshire Hathaway,

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1. The IBIS sponsoring team put on agreat event in terms of content anddelegate sponsorship. 2. David Lingham after 10 successfulyears stood down as the IBIS moderatorbut remains a conference director. 3. Major consolidation in US marketscould rapidly spread to internationalbusiness says Rex Green. 4. Sean Carey showed the rapid expanseof the connected car concepts with closeto 3000 new applications per monthbeing requested on the internet.5. The South African contingent sawAleeshen Kisten (left), Anesh Govenderfrom M&F Insurance and Lasen Moodleyfrom Audatex in attendance.6. The IBIS conference is very muchabout networking for the global moversand shakers.

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buying Auto Van Tyl Axalta and Greco are allkey players in the US repair market.

Other trends like Apple are now in theprocess of building a car. Nissan and Renaultpartnering with Floow and GeneralInsurance with US repairer Progressive nowbeing seen to tie up with General Motors.All this will put the OEM’s in the driving seatwith a lead on embedded data whileInsurers are now recognising that they willbe better off partnering, and finallyconsumers in the end, will hopefully receivebetter products with better service andbetter pricing.

There’s a trend in a seamless damageclaim that will undoubtedly develop amarket of insurance dominance and caninfluence to show consumers and shopswhat they want to achieve as more andmore consolidation moves to the collisionrepair industry.

Next up came Clive Humby who has abig history in the supermarket industry andas another key note speaker in his role asChief Data Scientist at Starcount, his subject

was on the connected car. One year on newdata trends were simply exploding aboutthe way people are being moved andbusiness changed with social mediabrowsing. You are today what you arepassionate about, not what you buy. NewInternet examples of Wejo Fleet drivenmeasurement on harnessing driver datawere discussed.

All this data will develop newcommercial models. Many alternativesolutions to the same problem meansgreater reference and trust by a client. Thekey question will however remain, is it coolor creepy?

Will more Internet control reducemaintenance and services with closerworking by Insurers who will develop creditscoring for drivers? Syndicated datainformation will power the connected carfor years to come. Data enables insurers tobuild lowest cost analysis for parts andlabour repairs with a chosen list of call outrepairers automatically.

‘All this data willdevelop newcommercial models.Many alternativesolutions to the sameproblem is greaterreference and trustby a client. The keyquestion will howeverremain, is it cool orcreepy?’

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R-M SPRAY COMPETITION J-A 2015_NOV/DEC 2005 paganation 2015/07/13 12:55 PM Page 1

Tel: 011 872 1217 RSB AutoGroup, Joshua Doore Building, 4 Andries Street South, Wynberg, JHB

R-M SPRAY COMPETITION J-A 2015_NOV/DEC 2005 paganation 2015/07/13 12:55 PM Page 2

Valspar has reached a definiteagreement to acquire theperformance coatings businesses ofQuest Specialty Chemicals which

include automotive refinish and industrialcoatings. The acquisition strengthensValspar's value proposition in automotive.

The transaction, which is expected toclose in the company's third fiscal quarter, issubject to customary closing conditions.Financial terms were not disclosed.

With 2014 sales of approximately $190million, the businesses to be acquired fromQuest include an automotive refinishbusiness along with a smaller industrialproducts business. Quest AutomotiveProducts formulates, manufactures, anddistributes a complete line of advancedtechnology paints, coatings systems, andaccessories to professional refinishers underthe well-respected brands of Matrix®,Prospray®, and USC®, primarily in NorthAmerica and Europe.

Quest Industrial Products serves both theprofessional and consumer markets withaerosol spray products and highly-specifiedcoatings for industrial applications under thePatriot®, Raabe® and Precision Color®brands, primarily in North America.

"The acquisition strengthens Valspar'svalue proposition in automotive refinish,"said Gary Hendrickson, Valspar Chairmanand Chief Executive Officer. "Our customerswill benefit from expanded distribution of aportfolio of preferred brands they know and

trust, a broader range of high-performanceproducts and a stronger service network.We are pleased to welcome the Questteam to the Valspar family to help deliverthese benefits to our customers."

Valspar is a global automotive coatingsmanufacturer and takes pride in deliveringthe very best in color-matching technology,support and service. Valspar's global color

labs and tools allow us to match any OEMand/or custom color.

Multiple OEM approvals include: Ford,General Motors, Chrysler, Mazda andToyota. Valspar's global portfolio ofpreferred brands include: DeBeer Refinsh®,Octoral™, Valspar® Refinish and House ofKolor®. Visit www.valsparauto.com.Valspar: If it matters, we're on it.®

inTERnaTional NEWS

VAlSPAR ACQUIRE PERfORMANCE COATINGS BUSINESS fROMQUEST SPECIAlITY CHEMICAlS


CoaTingS


Tel: (011) 952 1552 email: [email protected] COWLEY AUTOMOTIVE & INDUSTRIAL COATINGS (PTY) LTD

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excellent results on mild steel, high strengthsteel and SMC substrates. It’s remarkablestrength cure capabilities can be carried outwithout the use of a primer for it bonds andseals without it.

It is ideal for use in any body shop and isideal in heavy duty truck body repair andfleet maintenance situations for additionalreinforcing sealing or stiffening on car bodiesor their components.

Henkel make their new range of adhesiveand sealant products to the highest levels ofperformance in manufacture with ISO 9001

quality management systems in place. Theyalso offer a comprehensive range of tailor-made solutions to the Automotive vehiclerepair trade.

The product is available in 250mlcartridges for use with the standard singlecomponent handgun which is ideal in areasof replacing body quarter panels, rear bodypanels, roof domes, door skin replacementsalong with crossbeam and sills repairingneeds in structural bonding damagedvehicles in your body shop.

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Call +27 (0)11 617 2400 for informationon their full range of sealing and bondingproducts.

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WHAT’S HOT?

JiMMie Guthrieat saChsenrinG

This was the second running of this event at Sachsenringthe first being in 2013. Ferry Brouwer, who I wasintroduced to at Zwartkops in January this year is heavilyinvolved with the organising AD-AC (Classic Autosport)

and invited me to this event. I was introduced to the organisingcommittee that included Michael Sachse (one of the big chiefs).

In July, 1967, 30 years after father was killed, my mother and Iwere invited by the FIM to the old circuit in what was then EastGermany which included their Grand Prix in July.

With the memories of my father’s history they thought it agreat honour to have me with them. In the afternoon the mayorof Hoenstein, Ferry Brouwer, David Hailwood and I were driven tomy father’s "stein" which is at the side of the road of the old 9kmroad circuit where he came to grief in 1937. Here we performeda small flower laying ceremony.

At the circuit I met so many past champions, Hugh Anderson,Kel Carruthers, Luigi Taveri as well as Gerhard Sauer from Holland.Many of us stayed in The Amber hotel in Chemnitz so wecontinued to talk bikes and happenings of the last 40/50 years wayinto the wee hours of the night.

The event is predominantly for bikes (unlike Zwartkops). Glossyprogrammes were available weeks before the event with directionsof where to collect tickets, parking details, paddock passes withmeal vouchers etc. In the eating areas there were rows of TVshanging from above – I counted 80 – just to make sure no onemissed anything. This is a fully established Grand Prix racing circuitwith all the amenities.

Each allocated pit had a chart with rider, machine and times ofraces listed. There had been no practice (too wet) so our first raceouting was to find my way.

The Norton fluffed a plug in the paddock but once changed allwent swimmingly. Lined up were 125, 250, 350 and 500’s from the50’s and 60’s which included works MZ, Benelli, NSU, Moto-Guzzi,MV- Agusta’s – several were from the factories, not replicas – andof course AJS and Nortons. Our groupings, about 100 machineswere sent off by cc capacity. I had brand new tyres and brakes tobed in but all went well with Gerhard some way behind. It was an

RACINg NEWS

interesting, tight, relatively short circuit and easy to get wrong.Sunday, our race was in the morning with mixed conditions of

rain and wind. I set off passing others in their classes with HughAnderson the only one to get past me on the last lap. There wasoil on the circuit from cars, some came off. I managed to keep thebike upright even after quite a bit of slipping and sliding.

This was a very memorable and personal experience. I wastreated like a current champion with the organisers so polite andhelpful.

by Jimmie Guthrie


For more information, please contact Craig Bowles on 079 504 4563 or Tel: +27 (0)11 617 2689

www.loctite.co.za, www.henkel-mea.com

Henkel SA (Pty) LtdPrivate Bag X083, Wadeville, 1422

HENKEL AD N-D 2014_Layout 1 2015/07/13 12:38 PM Page 1

Toyota South Africa Motors (TSAM)officially launched the South Africanproduced Ses’fikile at a prestigiousevent held at the newly built

Quantum Manufacturing Facility inProspecton; attended by Minister of Tradeand Industry, Rob Davies as well as theMinister of Economic Development,Ebrahim Patel.

Back in 2012, the local Quantum/Ses’fikileassembly plant was opened at TSAM’sproduction facility – prior to that this modelwas imported in fully built-up form. But thereal story has been the switch to localproduction which saw a wholly operationalplant with weld, assembly and paint facilitiesas well as a full logistics operation takingshape from April 2015, to facilitate theproduction of the Ses’fikile.

“South Africa is a very important marketto Toyota globally in terms of supply to therest of the world and it serves as a gatewayto the African continent. With over R550-million invested in the Quantum plant todate, it certainly underlines Toyota’sconfidence in this country. This sizeableinvestment shows that Toyota is committedto development in the taxi industry and tocontinue its contribution to the country as awhole,” said Dr Johan van Zyl, CEO ofToyota Europe and Africa Region.

The taxi industry in South Africatransports over 15-million people daily,which constitutes 60-70% of the commutingpublic, and furthermore creates thousands of

jobs through entrepreneurship and smallbusiness development. This illustrates theimportance of this industry in the transportand small enterprise sectors and the needfor continuous improvement anddevelopment of the vehicles. As importersand manufacturers of taxis in South Africasince 1967.

Toyota is synonymous with the taxiindustry and is fully committed to thedevelopment of both this sector from anentrepreneurial growth perspective and itsassociated products such as the ubiquitousSes’fikile which has benefited fromcontinuous improvement aimed at meetingthe needs of South African commuters andtaxi operators alike.

The new Quantum plant has alsocontributed to the economy with thecreation of over 260 new jobs, raising the fullQuantum staff compliment to over 300 ofwhich 45% of the new employees are youngprofessionals between 18-35 years old. Theadded benefit to the country’s economywith a new plant of this nature is additionaljob opportunities in supporting sectors – inthis case, 165 jobs were created at supplierlevel; taking the total amount of jobs createdby the Quantum plant to well over 400.

Linked to job creation, peopledevelopment is an integral part of Toyota’sbusiness and as such, it was a major buildingblock for this project and R11-million wasinvested in upskilling staff at TSAM inpreparation for the opening of the Quantum

Plant. “Toyota is fully committed to thedevelopment of our employees and the newplant has allowed many employees,particularly the youth and women, to gainnew skills and further develop existing skills.We have also made a commitment to assistin the upliftment of women in manufacturingand engineering through variousprogrammes including a graduate traineeprogramme,” added Dr van Zyl.

With an 80% share of the taxi market inSouth Africa, it is clear that the local productis the preferred vehicle for transportingcustomers to various destinations in SA.“We are constantly looking for localsuppliers to produce the parts andaccessories we use for our vehicles.

This is imperative to us as it furtherstimulates the economy and allows Toyotato collaborate with suppliers to get the rightproduct at the right price withoutcompromising our promise of quality,durability and reliability,” continued Dr vanZyl. Furthermore, TSAM made aconsiderable investment with suppliers toensure readiness for Ses’fikile – R24-millionwas invested with suppliers for developmentof parts and tooling with a further R71-million invested by suppliers to upgrade theirfacilities.

“Toyota remains focused on delivering‘Better Cars’ and ‘Creating Customer Smiles’globally. I believe with Ses’fikile, we aremaking great strides towards these goals,”concluded Dr van Zyl.

loCal UPDATE

QUANTUM SHIfT fOR SES’fIKIlE fORTOYOTA SOUTH AfRICA MOTORS


ManUFaCTURing

The spirit of success at the Quantum line is clearly visible as the team celebrate theirsuper quick quality driven production facility ramp up success in Prospecton, Durban.



Economic development minister Ebrahim Patel wasinspired by Toyota’s training as most of their keystaff had received production techniques in Japan.

Toyota have graduate engineers from localuniversities. Seventy five percent of theengineers powering the production lineare under 25 years of age.

Special sound deadening sealersstop vehicle and noiseharshness as well as reducedust and water ingress.

Around 40 Ses’fikile units are alreadyrolling off the Prospecton line per day.It starts here in the bodyshop line.

The Quantum production line isalready double shifting to keeppace with the order books.

Manual spray painting of theQuantum is checked and polishedfor any minor imperfections.


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CARSYSTEM DPS J-A 2015_Layout 1 2015/07/13 12:23 PM Page 1


To better address the needs of its customers, Glasurit has,on an ongoing basis, been developing a new and moreergonomic version of Profit Manager, which will soon beexpanded with a new Glasurit RATIO Scan II module.

Spray painters are very familiar with the Profit Managersoftware, a true partner to leading body shops that simplifies themanagement of paints and materials as well as cost calculation. Thesoftware also includes a stock management system that allows thecustomer to know when to order new products andconsumables, as well as a vast selection of reporting options,amongst other functions.

Personalised Profit Manager “We use feedback from our customers regularly to make Profit

Manager even more user-friendly,” explained Roland Ricard,project manager of the marketing services team.

“In previous versions, functions were displayed to thecustomers that they didn’t always use. Now, customers cancustomise the software by deactivating those functions that theydo not need at their body shops enabling them to access themore frequently used functions a lot quicker.

“Creating system back-ups automatically, including customformulas, can be configured individually. In the same way theinformation that can be displayed in the reports is fullycustomisable. All of these customisable options are saved and, ifneeded, can be transferred to another computer at the body

shop. This provides a more ergonomic and efficient tool, which inturn results in significant time savings,” added Ricard.

Paul Rathbone, Glasurit value added services consultant SouthAfrica remarks how well the system has been functioning in SouthAfrica, “The upside of the Profit Manager software is that over andabove the new customised module; under the advisement of aconsultant, customers also have a choice of selecting a version thatis most suitable to fit their body shop.”

“This allows us to take the product into the market and applyit to small, medium or large body shops and in turn improve theefficiency and profitability of their businesses,” concludedRathbone.

Glasurit Automotive Refinish: An importantpart of BASF Coatings

Within the brand Glasurit, BASF sells a comprehensiveportfolio of paint systems for vehicles and car refinish with themain focus on eco-efficient waterborne and high solid paints.Within this refinish system, all global legal provisions with regardsto solvents reduction can be achieved without compromising onthe quality of conventional paint systems such as appearance anddurability. With Glasurit’s broad portfolio of products and services,the brand is able to service all its customers in the field. GlasuritAutomotive Refinish products are approved from most leadingautomotive OEM manufactures for refinish work due to the highcolour competencies of the most renowned car brands.

INDUSTRY NEWS

Colour tools noW eVen easier to use

PRODUCT UPDATE


GLASURIT AD J-A 2015_Layout 1 2015/07/13 12:37 PM Page 1


Chip Foose, the 3M Global Brand ambassador, legendaryowner and chief designer at Foose Design and star ofthe television series Overhaulin’ was a guest at therecent Collision Repair Expo in Melbourne. David

Newton-Ross spoke to him at the automotive Centre ofExcellence where he was making a presentation to students.

QYou received the prestigious Ridler award once again in theUS this year with a Chevy Impala that is called the Impostor.

Why that name?

athe reason we called it the Impostor is that the car is actuallya 2009 Corvette. I bought a brand new car, brought it into the

shop, peeled the body off of it, stretched the chassis 7⅝ inches andshortened the Impala body by 14 inches – and pulled the bumpersin as well. So it is really a 2009 Corvette with an Impala body overit. Because it is a Corvette in Impala clothing it is an Impostor!

Q How many hours went into that build?

aI would think somewhere near 30 000 hours in that car. It isridiculous amount of hours. the main reason for that is that it

is a production car underneath and we had to turn it into anartwork. Every single piece from that Corvette has been massaged,so tooling marks have been removed and everything painted andfinished. New ends put on tubing and stainless steel polished. It isendless when you start looking at it. I could walk you through everysingle part on the bottom of that car – a factory original piece thathas been massaged to be beautiful. there is more time on thebottom of the car than the rest of it.

QSo we will not see that on the production line?

a No. they could not charge enough for it!

QYou were seven years old when you started working withyour dad in the business. Your son Brock is now working with

you in your business. How does that make you and your family feel?

aWell, everybody likes the fact that he says that he really wantsto continue this and build hot rods for a living. But I know that

he does not have the same passion that I had – I could not getenough of it. My son Brock is more interested in playing videogames than coming in and getting dirty in the shop. But it is up tohim, it is whatever he wants to do, I don’t force it on him. My fathersaid he was not going to force me.

He said: ‘You are never going to stay in this business. You aregoing to design cars for a living.’ But then as soon as Saturday came

along, he was waking me up before the sun came up so that I couldgo to the shop to help him. I loved it. I know as a kid if I knew mydad was going to the shop I was in the truck before him. I did notwant him to leave me home! I absolutely could not get enough ofit. as a kid, if I did not have a paper and pencil in my hand so thatI could draw, I literally felt sick to my stomach. I needed to draw. Itis completely different for my son and me.

QYou mentioned passion a minute ago and that is part of mynext question. Is it the passion that drives the successful

people such as you to succeed?

a It is the passion; I think it is pride and the fear of failure. I don’twant to fail: I don’t want people to see me fail. I will do

whatever it takes to succeed.

Qtalking about success, you have worked with the best in theindustry over the years, such as Boyd Coddington, Charlie

Hutton, troy trepannier and many others. Is there anyone that youwould like to work with out there right now?

a I have been lucky and blessed to work with a lot of builders.another I would love to work with is Ralph Lauren. He has

quite a car collection and I would love to design and build a carwith him – I think that would be a phenomenal piece!

QIf we look at the industry and the pace of technology at themoment, what technology or innovations have you seen for

your particular niche in the market that has really helped you dowhat you do over the last say 10 years?

a Well, the computer has allowed us to accelerate the buildsand to design the pieces that we want. You are able to look at

it on the computer before you even build it, then just push abutton and the machine starts cutting. It is pretty amazing what ithas done for wheel design as well as everything else. You can nowbuild headlights, taillights, grilles … it is endless what you can dowith the computer.

QDo you spend a lot of time with one?

aNo. I don’t do any work on the computer. I still do all my handdrawings; even the wheels. I will draw everything by hand and

I will then hand it over to a computer programmer. He will get itto the point where I can look at it and then start manipulating itwith him. I’ll say let’s pull this surface out, let’s tighten up this radius,whatever the changes are that I see that we need to make. I canthen look at it in the computer and sometimes I get new ideas justwatching it happen in the computer. Or maybe you are looking atit and it looks like it is going one way when it is actually coming

INTERVIEW - CHIP FOOSE at tHE ExPO IN MELBOURNE

Chip Foose signingautographs on the

Glasurit stand at theSEMA show last year.



another way – then you say hold on and let’s flip that over. It isreally a tool for designers – possibly the number one tool in theworld.

Q Going back to your 2015 Ridler award, how many have youwon?

AThat is the sixth car that I have been involved with, but four ofthose have been built at my shop.

Q Of all the awards you have received over the years, whichone are you most proud of?

AI think that the award that I am most proud of is when theGood Guys started their Trendsetter of the Year Award, even

when I tell you that I turn 180 degrees from any trends because Idon’t ever want to be trendy. But when they started the award, Iwas the inaugural winner and I was really honoured to receive it.

QWhat about being the youngest in the Hall of Fame?

AWell that is interesting whenever anyone mentions that. Thatwas in 1997 when Hot Rod magazine, for their 50th

anniversary issue, picked 100 Hot Rodders who they were puttinginto the Hot Rod Hall of Fame. I was the youngest member thatwas inducted in 1997 and they have never added anyone to it. I wastruly honoured to be there with the greats of this industry.

QWe discussed the original Cars movie last time we met. Isthere any news on any further Cars movies?

AI know that they are working on Cars 3 but I have not beeninvolved as yet. Usually they finish the story and they get much

further along. I come in as they are putting the icing on the cakeand I get to design the graphics for the characters. I am not positiveif I will be involved this time around but I hope so. I will actually beat Pixar soon for their Autorama. They put this on every year attheir HQ in Emeryville and I will be taking the Imposter up there.

Q3M are big in the car wrapping business. Have you used anyof it at all on your cars?

AI have actually used their wrapping material and done partialpieces but I have never wrapped a complete car myself. I

thought about doing it on my P32 and designing it to look like agraphic on one of the Warbirds and wrapping the whole thing. Ithought that would be fun without painting it.

QThis is your second trip to Australia? What do you think of theExpo?

AUnfortunately I have not had a chance as yet to walk aroundthe show – I think we are doing that this afternoon. Yesterday

I got to the show and gave a speech to some people upstairs andthen went down to the show floor to sign some autographs andthen out back and did a demonstration in the spray booth.

QYes, I heard that you were out in the spray booth. What wereyou doing?

AThey actually wanted me to sign an autograph using the new3M Accuspray gun but I ended up doing a drawing on the

panel.

QWhat do you think of the gun?

AWhen 3M first showed me the gun I told them that they werenever going to get a painter who has spent $5-700 for a spray

gun to mentally accept that this plastic spray gun is going toperform better than his expensive gun that he makes his living with.It is very hard to tell anyone that all you have to do is pop off thenozzle, throw it in the bin and put on a new nozzle and away yougo. But it is a phenomenal gun.

I have actually used it to paint completes even though they toldme it was a primer gun. I wanted to try it and it works well. Again,it is hard to have a painter accept that this plastic gun is better oras good as his expensive one, but they need to try it.

QYou have spent the morning here at the Automotive Centreof Excellence with the young people. How was that?

AThis facility is amazing and the young people weretremendous. They were all great and sat there and listened to

my story. I am honoured that they would want to hear my story.

Q Just across from here is the Lyndsay Fox Car Museum. Youshould take a look in there.

AI was there yesterday! I would like to take the blue Porschehome with me. It is chassis number 56, which is the one made

after James Dean’s Porsche, which was number 55. Apparently theblue is the original colour.

QThe Velocity Live event at SEMA last year was really special.Have you any idea what is planned for this year?

AI don’t know what they are planning at SEMA this year. Wefinished our Overhaulin’ series three weeks ago but I have not

been approached regarding SEMA.

QAny plans to expand an Overhaulin’ series overseas?

AWould love to do Overhaulin’ on a global scale. That was myoriginal plan to go all over America and then to foreign

countries. Discovery would not give us the budget to travel so itdid not happen.

QAre you building any cars that will be featured at SEMA thisyear?

AWe are building cars, but I am not sure which cars will be atSEMA. The Impostor may be there.

Story by David Newton-Ross

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GUMTREE LAUNCHES

CALL TRACKING FOR

AUTOMOTIVE LEADS

26 R E F I N I S H E RUTOMOTIVEAAUTOMOTIVE

Gumtree now has the ability to track telephonic leadsto their existing automotive dashboard. This will allowdealerships to better evaluate the effectiveness oftheir advertisements,” says Jeff Osborne, Head of

Gumtree Automotive. “We know anecdotally that the vastmajority of leads that dealerships receive are telephonic –particularly serious buyers – but dealerships have no idea wherethese leads are coming from. Professional sellers that are makinguse of our platform weren’t always sure whether or not the leadwas coming from their Gumtree ads or not, which makes it hardto measure the true return on investment not to mention theeffectiveness of the advertisements themselves,” says Osborne.

“We are pleased to say that the new Call Tracking feature willresolve that issue so that dealerships will know exactly howeffective their ads are and be able to employ best practices and

Latest neWs

What’s hOt?

key learnings. ”The feature will be available automatically to allexisting Gumtree Automotive Inventory Tool (GAIT) customers.

“This will be added automatically, and there is no need to takeaction. After the feature is enabled, the seller will receive amessage whenever he or she answers the phone to identify thecall as a Gumtree-based lead. Reports will also be made availablein the same format as email lead reports and will detail the sourcephone number, date, time, call status (answered or missed),duration and a recording of every call.

These calls can also be downloaded if required.” Osborne saysthis is one of many innovations that have seen the light over thelast few months. “We are constantly fine-tuning the offering basedon dealer feedback and there are several big innovations on thecards still to come.” Dealerships can find more information or signup online.

GUMTREE LAUNCHES

CALL TRACKING FOR

AUTOMOTIVE LEADS

Jeff Osborne, Head of GumtreeAutomotive

AR J-A 2015 JAY_NOV/DEC 2005 paganation 2015/07/16 12:29 PM Page 1

GUMTREE AD M-A 2015_Layout 1 2015/03/19 10:27 AM Page 1

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CELETTE_Layout 1 2015/07/17 3:03 PM Page 2

The Imperial Group has increased their focus on tradetraining into the area of collision repair. Their new facilityhouses a fully set up and comissioned spray booth andpreparation area, along with the latest welding technologies

and body repair equipment. Automotive Refinisher magazine tooktime out to see how the group intends to maximise theirapprenticeship training going forward.

The Wadeville Academy of the Imperial Technical TrainingAcademy (ITTA), is the only one of their three academies that offersautobody repair and spray painting training. It has been in existencesince 2012, but Imperial Technical Training Academy as a brandstarted back in 2009. The ITTA is home to seven trades namelymotor and diesel mechanic, motorcycle and scooter, forklift, autoelectrical, and their newest addition being that of autobody repairand spray painting.

They currently have 29 spray painters and 30 autobody repairapprentices in training. This number is likely to grow, as their paneland paint side of the academy has only been open since April 2015.

The training facility is 4 000m2 in size and boasts the most up todate equipment supplied by Aer-o-cure and Hurricane Equipment.On the paint side of things, Glasurit is their main supplier, but theyare also in discussions with other paint companies so as to exposetheir learners to a variety of products.

“We had a whole panel shop with all its contents donated to usfrom Imperial Auto body. BASF sponsored the mixing rooms andthe rest has been investment from Imperial,” said Wesley Huntly,regional training manager.

“So how does the training work? First the dealer would need toenter into a contract with the learner to start his/her apprenticeship.

Once this is established our admin department at our trainingacademy will then liaise with Merseta to follow up on contractregistration and provide the workshop with the learners trainingschedule.”

The learner would come to the training academy for one week’straining that would comprise both theory and practical elements.They would then return back to their workplace for four weeks.This is where they complete tasks that are then recorded into thelearner’s logbook as evidence of on-the-job training and then theywould return back to the academy for another week of training. Thiscontinues until the learner has completed all the required modulesfor their level.

Once all the modules are complete they come back for arevision week in which we prepare them for their level test.

“The potential apprentices would have to meet certain entrancecriteria namely that of Maths, Science and English at 50% at Gr 12level. Even though the requirement is only Gr 9, we are seeing howtechnical and sophisticated the vehicles are becoming and we feelthat candidates will need a better foundation to cope in the longrun.

“Once the learner meets the relevant entrance criteria we putthem through a series of tests, which shows their aptitude for theirtrade as well as a basic numeracy and literacy tests. The results fromthese indicators, along with an interview, would tell us if the learnerwould be suited for an apprenticeship,” Huntly continued.

“Normally the learners that enter an apprenticeship are alreadyin employment, but once their apprenticeship is completed and theywish to move on they would be able to distribute their CV’s to theirclients and maybe assist in future employment if needs be.

TRaining IMPERIAL TECHNICAL TRAINING ACADEMy


IMPERIAl TECHNICAl TRAINING ACADEMY

IMPERIAl TECHNICAl TRAINING ACADEMY



Courses for spray painting currently are as follows, with more indevelopment:

l Polishingl Stone chip and colour matchingl Preparation for painting. Courses for autobody repair are as follows, with more in

development:l Paintless dent removall Strip and Assemble.Please note that these courses are still awaiting accreditation

from merSeta.There are seven trainers and two test officers at their Wadeville

branch while Germiston has nine trainers. The Cape Town officehas five trainers and a test officer.

“Once these courses and our intake has taken off, we would liketo open up a part-time apprenticeship course whereby the learnerattends class after hours and on weekends in order to obtain theirqualification. We plan to roll this out across all seven trades that weoffer training for. We are also in the throws of accrediting shortercourses for small area repair and hail damage, so watch this space.”concluded Huntly.

The Imperial Technical Training Academy takes care of all theadministration matters relating to apprenticeship from end to end,they have world-class facilities with highly skilled trainers and aboveall they are committed to helping industry bridge the skills gap within the various trades.

So what are you waiting for? Call them on +27 (0)11 255 4240or email: [email protected]



Cape Town headquartered City Paint & Abrasives (CPA)are kicking it up at having recently become the newdistributors for leading paint manufacturer PPGIndustries in the Western Cape.

With two established branches in Brackenfell and Maitland thecompany have been in the automotive paint industry for years andhave built up a solid reputation.

According to owner Gavin Kinnear the move to becoming aPPG distributor was the next step towards implementing thecompany’s growth strategy and will see them extending theirfootprint in the Western Cape significantly.

“We have predominantly been operating in the economybrand sector, but have always wanted to be a distributor for apremium brand. Signing with PPG gives us the opportunity to stepinto that league,” he said. “It also allows us to grow our business inthe Western Cape as it extends our offering to clients significantly.Our aim is to become one of the biggest automotive paintdistributors in the province. Not only do we have the ability andthe knowledge, but now also the product to allow us to reach thatgoal.”

With new branding and signage already adorning thecompany’s premises it is all systems go.

“Our staff has undergone extensive training and our sales teamhas already started working in the market,” he said.

The CPA team has steadily been growing their businessfootprint and comes with a solid reputation and good customerrelations. Their personality, as well as their general approach tobusiness, are making them real competitors in the burgeoningpaint supply market.

CPA will stock the full range of PPG products includingEnvirobase® HP, MaxMeyer®, Selemix® and Ducol.

According to Kinnear customers are already knocking on their

door as market interest has been piqued.“The PPG products speak for themselves as they are of an

exceptionally high quality. It has the most stable waterborneproduct available in the market at present, while they are alsouser-friendly and durable.”

He said aligning CPA to a well-recognised global leader in theautomotive paint industry would ultimately benefit the business inthe long run.

“We have big expectations of where this will take us in thefuture,” he said.

Market interest has already piqued and big expectations forwhere this will go.

“As a family business close-knit relationships are important forus. It is a relationship that we are developing with PPG but alsowith our existing and new customers.”

INDUSTRY NEWS

neW Western CapedistriButor For ppG

WHAT’S HOT?

Gavin Kinnear of City Paint & Abrasives in Cape Town has been appointed as thenew distirbutor for PPG Coatings South Africa in the Western Cape.

Andre Kinnear, Karin Mould, Kayla Kinnear, Chantelle Cowie, Matthew Kinnear,Gavin Kinnear of City Paint and Abrasives, the new appointed PPG Coatings SouthAfrica distributor in the Western Cape.


For more information call +27 (0)11 953 2576

or visit www.ppgrefinish.com

PPG J-A AD 2015_Layout 1 2015/07/13 12:53 PM Page 1

The two-week road racing bonanza held in June each year,was the 108th running of an event first held in 1907. Onceagain it proved the premium place to be for over 20 000bikes with over 40 000 island visitors attending this year’s

motorcycle road races. Practice week

The week’s evening practice sessions that run in the late eveningon the island were washed out and blown away by huge winds andonly really got underway halfway through the week.

Michael Rutter and local rider Dan Kneen were the first to leavethe line, followed in quick succession by Guy Martin, James Hillier,Bruce Anstey, Gary Johnson, Ian Hutchinson, Ivan Lintin, RyanFarquhar, Keith Amor and Cameron Donald, with Lintin theexception to the norm on his Supersport mount.

Martin was first to complete a lap at 122.77 mph, withHutchinson marginally quicker at 127.967 mph and Johnson the onlyother rider to lap at more than 127 mph from a standing start.

Michael and William Dunlop both pitted, with Michael’sMilwaukee Yamaha smoking and it was the outright lap record holderBruce Anstey who posted the best lap of the night at 128.641 mph(17 min 35,865 sec) on the Valvoline Racing Padgett Honda as heoverhauled Hutchinson on the road, the latter lapping at 128.30 mphon the PBM Kawasaki.

Honda No 1 rider McGuinness got closest to Anstey’s lap though,with a speed of 128.596 mph, a mere four tenths of a second slower,with Rutter (Bathams BMW) and Connor Cummins (Honda) in the127 mph bracket.

Anstey also went to the top of the Supersport leaderboard witha lap of 125.218 mph ahead of Martin (123.081 mph) on the SmithsTriumph and Johnson (Mar-Train Yamaha) 121.678 mph.

On the big race day of the TT the weather once again played atrump card with 120 km gusting winds and sporadic rain. The day’sevents were cancelled and finally the premier event ran over six lapsin blissful conditions on the Sunday.

R E F I N I S H E RUTOMOTIVEAAUTOMOTIVE34

TT 2015 ISLE OF MAN RACES

ONE OF

THE BEST

EVER!Story and Pics by Ian Groat

ONE OF

THE BEST

EVER!


R E F I N I S H E RUTOMOTIVEAAUTOMOTIVE 35

In a thrilling race it was Bruce Anstey who finally captured theSuperbike win he has desired for so long in a dramatic RSTsponsored race on the Sunday afternoon.

The Windsor-based New Zealander, who recently celebrated his46th birthday, delighted his legions of fans across the globe with aflawless ride on the Valvoline Racing by Padgett’s Motorcycles HondaFireblade.

It was an extremely close race at the front between him andYorkshireman Ian Hutchinson, who led for more than two thirds ofthe 226.38 mile distance on Paul Bird’s Kawasaki ZX.

Michael Dunlop looked to be in line for a podium place in theclosing stages until he had a coming together with Scott Wilson of

Burton, Cumbria at the Nook, less than one mile from the chequeredflag.

The narrowest section of the entire course was briefly blockedand only three riders had actually crossed the finish line before therace was red-flagged. Three more were between the Nook and theend, but did make the finish.

Half of the six finishers were in the winners’ enclosure.“I can’t believe it,” said a clearly delighted Anstey. “I sat at the

bottom of the return road to wait while Hutchie crossed the line tomake certain I had it won. I didn’t have many pit boards around theplace, so I wasn’t absolutely sure.”

Anstey won in a race record time of 1 hr 45 min 29 902 sec (an

‘Michael Rutter storming through the

Bungalow with last years four time winner

William Dunlop in hot pursuit’.


average speed of 128.739 mph) beating Michael Dunlop’s previousrecord from 2003 by 0 078 of a second.

His final lap was 17m to 10 587s (131.789 mph) to secure victoryby 10 977 seconds from Hutchinson.

James Hillier, who led for the opening lap on the Quattro PlantMuch-Off Kawasaki, regained third place at the finish followingMichael Dunlop’s crash.

With Michael heavily banged up from his fall and his brotherWilliam Dunlop who finished in fifth spot behind John McGuinness,William was later in the week to feature in a huge high speed crashputting the mockers on their plans for this year’s events for theDunlop brothers ambitions. Coupled to this, organisers were busyrearranging for races to be run four days in a row because of the lackof practice and qualifying times from some parts of the paddock.

A thrilling Monster Energy Supersport race was totally dominatedby Ian Hutchinson who put his injury nightmare behind him as hereturned to the top of the rostrum for the first time in five years atthe TT.

The “Bingley Bullet” clinched a dream win in the opening MonsterEnergy Supersport race of prodigy star Keith Flint’s Team TractionControl Yamaha to seal his ninth victory on the 37.73 mile Mountaincourse.

Hutchinson’s journey back to the TT summit has been anemotional roller coaster for the 35-year-old, who famously won fiveraces in a week in 2010 to make history before suffering a careerthreatening crash in a British Supersport race later that year.

However, he was back where he belonged after controlling thefour-lap race to defeat Sunday’s Superbike winner, Bruce Anstey by7.7 seconds.

Hutchinson who was in tears at the post race press conferencesaid, “I was always going to become a TT race winner again some day.The race went really well and the Team Traction Control Yamaha isjust a dream to ride for I felt like I was out delivering pizzas orsomething, I felt that comfortable during the race.”

“Starting as number nine it wasn’t ideal, I think some people didn’tthink I would be capable of running at the front again, so I gotdropped down the numbers this year but I caught Guy Martin andthen I got out behind him in the pit stop, but apart from that it waspretty good.

“It was so special to hear all the fans around the circuit, peoplehave taken note of me and I am so grateful for everyone’s support.”

Broughton’s Gary Johnson finished third for Northern Irelandteam Mar-Train Racing while Lee Johnston from Fermanaghproduced an excellent ride on the ECC/Burdens triumph to takefourth. In the second leg run on Wednesday he once again scoopedthe win by some 13 seconds on the Traction Control Yamaha.Harassed this time all race long by kiwi veteran racer Bruce Ansteyon the Padgett Honda, while popular Guy Martin also got his onlypodium of the week on a Smith’s racing Triumph machine.

These 600cc machines are far easier to ride and are onlyfractionally slower than the superbike lap times. The race once againran on superb weather bringing a sigh of relief from the organisers.

Side CarsThese wheeled racers now feature real state-of-the-art technology

and with the top 10 outfits in superfast formation, spectators were tosee some close racing coupled to the normal break neck overtaking


Tim Reeves and Patrick Farance show the dangerous side of

sidecar racing on their LCR outfit at the Bungalow.

Go lden boy I an Hutch inson won four TT r aces in the week.


manoeuvres. The first leg went to the Birchell brothers on their LCRManx Gas machine with an eight second advantage over DaveMolyneux on the Suzuki DMR. Dave coaxed the sidecar home with adestroyed wheel bearing as John Holden and Dan Sayle took the finalpodium spot on yet another LCR machine. Race two, however, sawMolyneux and Benjamin Binns take the lap record to an all time highof 117 mph as he blitzed the opposition in the second leg.

TT ZeroThese unique electric motorcycle racers are just able to get one

lap in of the mountain circuit but progress has been rapid intechnology development and this year managed a 120 mph lap time.

The TT was dominated by the Mugen team with John McGuinnessscooping the top spot on the podium ahead of kiwi Bruce Anstey’ssister machine. Irish lightweight Ace Lee Johnson on the Victory racingmachine was a distant third in a race that is fairly hopeless from aspectator point of view because their bikes virtually make no noiseand often kill plump seagulls who fail to see them coming.

Bennetts Lighweight TTThis event is designed for beginner riders on 650cc machines in

twin cylinder form. For most it is dominated by superfast Kawasakimachinery, and the race only does three full laps of the circuit.Specialist for this division was Ivan Linton who dominated the race onhis CF Kawasaki moto machine winning the event in just 57 minutes,but his race long tussle with James Hillier on another Kawasaki waslost by just eight seconds to the winner. A surprise was Michael Rutterfinishing third on a Patten team LR Kawasaki. Rutter a veteran of theTT pulled out all the stops to lap at close to 118 mph to clinch thirdspot on the podium.

Pokerstars Senior TTThe final six-lap race, the Senior race of the week closed the

curtain on probably the most successful TT race week ever. The islandhad attracted a record crowd as well as bikers from across the globeto take on the TT spectacle.

John McGuinness made no mistakes to win the big one on a bikethat Honda had made very few changes to for the last six years.Winning his 24th TT, the 46-year-old McGuinness endured pressurefrom the weeks multiple four time TT winner, Ian Hutchinson on aPaul Bird motorsport Kawasaki. Amazingly, this team was only formeda few weeks before the TT started and boy were they happy at thisresult. McGuinness who had barged in a 130 mph lap just days beforeto win from James Hillier on a Kawasaki Quatro Plant Machine.

McGuinness managed his lead gap very well and after Hutchieover shot the braking at Sign Post Corner, the race was his for thetaking.

Guy Martin took fourth place on the Tyco BMW just secondsahead of a hard charging Michael Dunlop on his new mount, a BMW1000cc which had been imported just before the races started whenhe decided to ditch an uncompetitive Milwaukee Yamaha and go hisown way for this year’s event.

The Purple helmets grunge culturedemonstration evening was a big hit in

Douglas with Charlie Borman, (right) andDerick the organiser taking part.

Austr a l ianCameronDonald took theNor ton to a topspeed of 287km/h throughthe Se lbySpeed Trap.

AJ Venterfrom Benoni

finished all ofhis four races

well up andclocked a

122 mph lapin the week.

The Dunlopdynasty had aluck less week wi thRober t suf fe r ing abig fal l andbreaking r ibs.

Ian Hutchinson on the Kawasaki superbikewas just too good on the race week results.

South Af r icanHudson

Kennaugh g r indsi t out on theBuel l in the

1000ccSuperbike c lass

managing aweek of good

resul ts .



Results

Pokerstars RaceJohn McGuinness Honda Racing 01,09.22 - 130,481James Hillier Kawasaki Quatro Plant 01,09,38 - 130, 08Ian Hutchinson Kawasaki 01,09,44 - 129Guy Martin BMW 01,09,52 Michael Dunlop BMW 01,10, 03 - 129LightweightIvan Lintin Kawasaki 57,06. - 118. 95James Hillier Kawasaki 57,09,945 - 118-80Michael Rutter Patton 57,08 - 117-65


SATA AD J-A 2015_Layout 1 2015/07/13 1:00 PM Page 1

During a recent visit to Barcelona,where we were introducing aconcept to a group of Spanishcollision repair professionals, an

interesting comment was made.The head of marketing said that Spain

was moving very rapidly to the UK model ofbusiness, and suggested that if you’d askedhim whether this was going to happen –even a year ago – he would not have seen itcoming.

Is this a warning to other markets, andcould it happen in the US too? Lets put a bitof perspective on this, because until youunderstand what’s gone on in the UKmarket, it will be difficult to visualise whatcould happen in the US, Canada or SouthAfrica.

In the UK, one thing is for sure, it’s a reallysmall minority of customers that will taketheir damaged cars to their preferred repairshop. Insurance carriers direct most of thework. They are very good at this redirection.They are so efficient, in fact, that should thedriver wish to use a shop of their ownchoice, there’s a clause in the policy that saysthe customer has to pay an extra R4 000deductible for the privilege.

That pretty much puts an end tocustomer choice. If you want to work underan insurance contract as a collision shop,you’ll need to agree to a few rules. Littlethings like offering free towing on your owntruck(s), or free storage or vehicles and, ofcourse, a free courtesy car, all supplied atyour cost. You might need 50- or 60courtesy cars to do this.

Under your service agreement, you’llprobably need to make contact with thecustomer within the hour, collect the vehicleand deliver a courtesy car within four hoursand start repairs the next day. Then you’llneed to buy paint from the paint companythat the insurer requires, and from selectedjobbers at the specific discount the insurernegotiates with you. You’ll have to use amandated supply chain for certain parts, andof course fit recycled parts as well. You’ll beexpected to focus on repairing everything

before thinking about replacing a part, andthis includes plastics, glass, trim and panels.

You will have to construct a bigger mixingroom and hold four times the usual stock ofpaint because every insurer you work formandates a different paint brand, and youneed space for multiple mixing machines. Youwill have to learn how to use four differentpaint systems as well.

Obviously you won’t be able to chargewhat the repair actually costs, because you’llprobably be on a total fixed price scheme ofabout R14 000 per vehicle, irrespective ofdamage size, but if you crunch the numberscorrectly, get as much through your shop asyou can, and duck and dive a bit, you mightmake a small amount of money.

There are no guarantees of volumes, butyou are measured regularly on cycle time,key-to-key statistics and customercomplaints, and put into a league table to seehow you fare against your fellow repairers.

This is exactly where most of the UKrepair markets are at the moment, and this isexactly where Spain, and dare I say it, you,may end up in the very near future. Now thismight look as though I’m taking a “pop” atthe insurers, but I’m not. They arecommercial organisations as well, and have aduty to their shareholders – most of themare, in fact, banks. What is amazing is the factthat many repairers have not preparedthemselves for the change, or looked atinsurers as customers. Neither do manyinsurers really understand body shops.

Pressure on the insurance market hasnever been greater, and one thing you haveto really watch out for is what we callaggregator websites. These are sites that arelike search engines that will go and find youthe cheapest motor insurance policy onceyou have entered your details. Within a fewseconds, it orders about 100 competingpolicies starting from the lowest cost. Thisbasically changes drivers from dog behaviour(loyal) to cat behaviour (predatory). Insurerscan’t assume you’ll now return to them forpolicy renewals, so they are under increasingpressure to cut costs at the back end of their

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business (that’s you).Another painful twist is the magical

“deductible slider.” Say, for example, yourdeductible for a particular policy is R4 000,yet with the comparison aggregator websiteyou can now increase your deducible by upto R15 000 which of course brings yourpolicy cost down, often by as much asR2 000. It is very tempting because no oneever believes they are going to have acollision.

The consequences? Write-offs go up,meaning that fewer cars are repaired. Fewercustomers can afford their new “voluntary”deductible, so they drive around withdamaged vehicles. Who suffers? The shopsdo.

So, is this going to happen in othermarkets, perhaps the US, South Africa? Well,maybe not in the same way or to the samelevel. But Spain didn’t think so either, and it’shappening. It seems logical that the rate ofchange will be much slower, just because ofthe sheer land mass and inertia in themarket.

Other than some legislative differences,which will stop certain things fromhappening, I can’t see the US market comingthrough this evolution unscathed.

Ultimately, smart repair shops and smartinsurers should work in true partnership tosatisfy each other’s requirements. Collisioncentres should actually ask insurers whatthey want and be able to deliver it, whileinsurers should understand that collisionshops do have a finite capacity. Insurers needto use smart methods to stop overloadingtheir preferred suppliers, and stop thisridiculous horsetrading some people callestimating.

One thing’s for sure, times are reallychanging. It’s how you prepare yourself forthis change that will make all the difference,understanding that the light at the end of thetunnel is not the end, but rather anenormous train steaming toward you. Shopsneed to act now to get on board.

by Jon Parker


Contact Suleman Tel (031) 902 7666

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YATU NEW AD M-J 2013_Layout 1 2013/07/15 12:50 PM Page 1

R E F I N I S H E RUTOMOTIVEAAUTOMOTIVE

The Jaguar Simola Hillclimb run over 19km in Knysna fromthe 15th to 17th May was a great success and must rankas one of the events on the South African motorsportcalendar. It attracted 130 entries, of which 52 were classic

cars from the 20’s, 30’s, 40’s and 50’s.Charles Arton took his ”new” 1979 March Atlantic, which he

has only driven once in a racing car demonstration at Killarney,went up the ‘hill’ in a record time of 46 seconds to claim the titleof “Classic Conqueror of the Hill”.

Meanwhile, The King of the Hill was Des Gutzeit, who arrived inthe company of his two sons, Jade and Shane. Des took his 1450hpNissan up the hill one second faster than the previous record heldby Franco Scribante at 41.1 seconds. He left it at 40.1 secs. Topspeed reached was a heady 253km/h. Intending to be back nextyear to defend his title, he reckons he can get into the 39’s!

Jaguar took the Hillclimb to heart. Not only was the Jaguarbranding prominent throughout Knysna and all over the Simola Hill,they even shipped down 32 cars, including two D-Types, from the50’s, to the event.

Also revealed to the public was the new XE due to go on salelater in the year after its official launch.

Their director of marketing, Lisa Mellet, says going into theirthird year of sponsorship they will put on an even bigger show ofcars and events for the public to enjoy in 2016.

Billstein Shock Absorbers have brought out a new Billstein MobilShock Tester. 12 metres long it is able to test the shock absorbersof both passenger cars and light commercial vehicles.

It only takes two minutes to provide info of precise data. It istotally mobile and useful for motor shows, for service stations alongour holiday routes and for any other specialised motoring event.The cost of the testing, which is in your interests, is free of charge.

Worn shocks increase your stopping distance by 20%, allow cars

to aquaplane, give poor traction to tyres and reduce effectivenessof the electronic driver aids fitted to cars these days. Get hold ofted@ imcolex.co.za if you want to use this tester.

LiquiMoly makes over 4 000 products in Germany and is soldin 150 countries has now completed their range of products(which I doubt). They have now brought out LiquiMoly for aircraftengines, bicycles, cars and motorcycles.

All products are tested in Germany by their own labs and arethe leading seller of oil products and additives in Europe.

Subaru WRX STi is back in international motorsport. In Maythey won their class at a gruelling Nurburgring 24-hour race by 12laps ahead of some other highly pedigreed sports coupes. Theyfinished 18th overall out of 102 finishers. The Subaru competed ina class for turbo-charged 2.0 litre cars. They led from flag to flag.

Range Rover with their new SVR now available in South Africa,brought one to the Jaguar Simola Hillclimb. It is one of the fastestand most powerful models of Range Rover ever made. It produces405kW while offering 680Nm of torque from its V8 engine. It hasan eight-speed automatic transmission and 4-wheel drive. Thesound it makes is unbelievable.

Peter Lindenberg took this five litre, supercharged-enginedmachine up the Simola hill and finished in amongst the highly ratedsports cars.

Imperial has announced a few changes to its CEO line-up.Nicholas da Canha will take over as CEO of Renault on November1st. He will replace Niall Lynch who will be taking over the seniorCEO position at Hyundai. Alan Ross, who has steered Hyundai togreat success in this country since 1998, will be retiring.

Cayenne, the largest motorcycle dealer in the country, had theirCayenne Shopping Festival of the Century from 20th May to 20thJune. They gave away R2m, with some motorcycles discounted upto R100 000. They had motorcycles – and they have many brands

DID YOU HEAR? by Roger McCleery

42

The 1000 Bike Show proved to be bigger and better thanever. Held in Germiston this spectacular Honda 929 customwalked off with the Best Custom Bike on Show. With itscomplicated pipe hardware it took Peter Pelsor from Welkomin the Free State a great deal of time and effort to build up.Here he gets his trophy from Classic Bike Club’s HamishIrland for all that hard work.


43

The compact Korek HD floor frame features adouble layer ground frame for robustperformance and easy set-up. The flexibletower assemblies are highly mobile. It offersextended cab tower pulls with traction pulls of20 tons per basic tower.

The towers are simple to fix as they operateon rollers and are fixed to the HD Korekframe by four wedges with three main standson offer. This is coupled to 30 ton compositionhydraulic sets. The options for a perfectchassis cab and frame straightening job areendless as well as painless.

As far as speed of output and profitability areconcerned, the HD Korek offers majorprofitability at a reasonable entry level cost. Itis ideal for both CV repairers and large fleetoperators as an investment in Truck repair.

from all over the world – ATV’s Jet Skis and cars were on offer.Cayenne is a company that never stops producing innovativeways of getting people onto wheels.

The Right to Repair Campaign is gaining impetus in SouthAfrica. Speakers from Europe were over at the RMI Conferenceat Automechanika to update everybody on the challenges inservicing or repairing vehicles these days.

The Right to Repair Campaign launched in 2010 says that allqualified motor repair workshops – and this happens in Europe,the US, Australia and Brazil – provided they have the rightequipment, can repair all makes of vehicles without the ownerlosing any part of his warranty. Consumers should have the rightto choose where they want their cars repaired. The Chairman ofthis initiative is Les McMaster.

The Hyundai Sonata has just celebrated its 30th anniversary.Launched in 1988, it is a mid-sized sedan with recorded sales ofover 300 000 units in the Middle East and Africa alone. Over 7.3million have been sold globally making it one of Hyundai’s bestselling passenger cars.

It has been four years since KIA’s second generation Picantomade its debut at Geneva. This award winning design hasbecome a best seller in its segment wherever it appears. It nowcomes with revised styling inside and out and has a morepremium look and feel. Prices of the two models are the 1.0 LXfor R137 000 and the range topping 1.2 EX for R150 000.Automatic transmission is available on both models and will costyou an extra R12 000. They both come standard with a five-year,150 000km warranty.

8 700 Audi A1’s have been sold since their launch in 2011.They now come fitted with either the impressive 1.0turbocharged engine with 70kW, a 1.4 turbo with 92kW, a 1.8which replaces the 1.4 with 141kW and a 2.0 turbo SI with170kW. All available with seven-speed automatic boxes, whichare among the finest anywhere.

The current Kyalami Grand Prix racing circuit was officiallyclosed on Tuesday, 12th May for major revisions to upgrade thisiconic, jewel-in-the-crown Grand Prix Circuit.

Bossman Toby Venter says that April saw revenue at the circuitfrom motor and motorsport related events the highest in historyof the circuit. It is due to re-open after a very tight schedule forthe contractors, in September 2015.

Rob Green Motors known for the tuning of most vehicles arerenowned for putting serious horsepower under the bonnets ofmany cars. The latest is the Jeep Cherokee SRT8 that does 0-100in 4.7 seconds from its 6.4 litre V8. Nissan 350Z’s and Toyota 86supercharged cars also get the Rob Green treatment. At theSimola Hillclimb on view was an RG Golf 7 putting out 400 HP.It went like a jet plane.

Another winner has just arrived in the country from Renaultto add to the three main pillars in the sales field. The Clio, theSandero and the Duster are well established. Now a newRenault, the Captur, features in the line-up as well. Two modelsare on offer with a 66kW turbo and also a 1.2 turbo pushing out85kW. The automatic box has a dual clutch and six speedtransmissions. Prices start at R219 000. The top of the range autois R280 000.

Unbelievably Volkswagen South Africa in Uitenhage hasmanaged to decrease its weekend electrical base load target forthe entire plant by 27% – that is from 3.91 to 2.84 megawatts.Incredible.

Since 2010 VWSA has reduced its electricity usage by 24%,waste disposal by 53%, water usage by 42% and CO2 emissionsby 21%.


Listen to Roger McCleery

every Tuesday on Radio

Today (1485 AM) at17h30

for everything about SA

motoring.

43


AEROCURE DPS J-A 2015_Layout 1 2015/07/13 12:25 PM Page 2

AEROCURE DPS J-A 2015_Layout 1 2015/07/13 12:25 PM Page 1

INDUSTRY NEWS

Some OEM companies don’t want any competition in the aftermarkets because itis a major profit maker for them.

by Andrew Johnson

USA NEWS

oriGinal oraFterMarKet parts Feud Continues

OE versus aftermarket parts – comments made by automanufacturers have heightened the debate. Last yearFord Motor Company took the floor at the CollisionIndustry Conference (CIC) in Chicago with a

presentation that slammed the quality of aftermarket parts. Sincethen, other auto manufacturers such as American Honda, HyundaiMotor America and Nissan followed suit with similar publicstatements.

“We do not support the use of any parts that are not OE,” saysBob Shih, Hyundai parts pricing, planning and administration nationalmanager. “We only stand behind parts that we manufacture and test.”

That viewpoint has brought the aftermarket parts debate to afrenzied pitch, says Aaron Schulenburg, executive director of theSociety of Collision Repair Specialists (SCRS), adding that theindustry wants this issue resolved.

What effect will the highly publicised comments of automanufacturers have on the aftermarket industry? The simple answer– more parts testing. And the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety(IIHS) has gotten in on the action.

Why Now? The debate on whether aftermarket parts should beused for collision repairs has been going on for decades. So why areauto manufacturers suddenly coming out with these comments?Aftermarket industry professionals say it’s simply economics.

“There certainly haven’t been big profits in vehicles sales recently,”points out Aaron Lowe, vice president of government affairs for theAutomotive Aftermarket Industry Association (AAIA). “Profits todayare more in repairs and parts for vehicles because people arekeeping their cars longer.”

Ford cites safety as the main reason for the timing of itscomments, not money. “Ford’s testing addressed a recent trend ofaftermarket companies copying structural parts that are keycomponents of our integrated safety systems that meet rigidstandards,” says Paul Massie, manager of powertrain and collisionparts for Ford’s customer service division. “We are addressing safetyissues that in many cases are regulated by law for new vehicles, butdo not apply to copy parts.”

But Jack Gillis, executive director of the Certified AutomotiveParts Association (CAPA) says Ford’s sudden focus on safety is

surprising. For years, Ford has been a leader in fighting against safetyinnovations in Washington,” he says. “Ford doesn’t want anycompetition in the parts marketplace. Their brand of aftermarketparts is one of their greatest profit centres and they want to put ahalt to as much competition as possible.”

The Answer is in the Evidence. The biggest question remains: isresolution between OEMs and the aftermarket possible?Schulenburg says it is. “But it will take a continued push from peoplewho believe there needs to be improved standards and certificationfor parts that enter the marketplace,” he continues.

“We’re not against competition in the marketplace,” Lowe says.“Car companies can push their products and services based onconvenience or quality, but they can’t question the quality ofaftermarket parts without proper justification.”

Clarification is something the IIHS is working towards. The IIHS ishoping to bring more concrete evidence to the debate, says RussRadar, spokesman for IIHS.

“We decided to help CAPA with parts testing to look at whetheraftermarket structural parts can be reverse-engineered to match theperformance of original OEM parts,” Radar says.

“Being able to identify truly comparable parts to the expensivecar company parts will not only provide repairers with more choicesbut [will also] keep vehicles from being totalled out and never makingit to the repair shop,” CAPA’s Gillis says.


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Frazer-Nash Research Ltd and Ecotive Ltd, themakers of the all-new Metrocab are proud toconfirm that the Metrocab is now operating, inassociation with ComCab, with a small fleet on

a trial basis in London. To mark the partnership, Metrocab has

commissioned a short film to record passengers’reactions to the new zero-emissions capable taxi. Theshort promotional feature will be filmed in centralLondon with passengers that are willing to take partbeing given their journey free of charge.

Karl Maresch from ComCab said, “We’re veryproud to be partnering with Metrocab on this pilotfleet of these superb Range-Extended Electric taxis. Itcould revolutionise our business, with the cost savingsbeing very significant. I’m really looking forward toseeing the short film, and finding out what ourpassengers think of the all-new Metrocab. Zero-emissions and zero-fares. What an offer!”

Gordon Dixon, regional operations director forMetrocab said, “We have been developing the newMetrocab for 10 years now, with over a million miles ofpowertrain testing completed. I’m so proud that it hasbeen licensed by Transport for London to operate ona trial basis as a London Hackney Carriage. With itscost savings for the drivers, smooth air-suspended rideand unrivalled panoramic glass roof view of the city forpassengers and its zero-emissions capability benefitingenvironment, truly everybody wins.”

The Metrocab has been shortlisted for the LondonTransport Awards in 2015 in the Taxi & Private HireInnovator of the Year category, with the winners beingannounced later this year.

INDUSTRY NEWS

neW london MetroCaB - eleCtriC

UK NEWS


Karocle, is an automotive refinishpaint from Korea. They recentlylaunched in South Africa andboast a full product line-up, from

undercoat to top coat, along with highquality and competitive pricing.

Starfill is Karocle’s undercoating puttyand it provides excellent drying time andgood sanding for improved turnaroundtime in the workshop.

Starpra is Karocle’s primer-surfacer.There are two types, according to mixingratio 1K or 2K. They are fast drying andefficient in the sanding department onceagain. Both the 1K and 2K have excellentadhesion.

Starbase and Starcoat is their colourrange, according to resin type. Starbase is apolyester range Basecoat and Startcoat is2K solid colour based on urethane.

The Starcolour mixing system providescustomers with approximately 40 000colour formulations from Korean vehiclessuch as Hyundai, Kia, etc., as well asinternational vehicles such as Europeanand Japanese cars.

Starclear is Karcole’s clearcoat brandand has various types of products from

universal clear, high solid clear and highquality clear – even matt clear to meet allof their customer’s needs.

They also offer various types of

miscellaneous products. For example,there is Fade-Out Solvent as well as aPlastic Primer to complete thecomprehensive range.

loCal UPDATE

KAROClEPRODUCTS ATA GlANCE


PRoDUCT UPDaTE


KAROCLE AD J-A 2015_Layout 1 2015/07/13 12:52 PM Page 1

Telephone: +27(0)79 206-7881 / Fax: +27(0)11 452-8372

Tyrone: +27(0)82 856-1200 Aki: +27(0)84 889-7014 / Email: [email protected]

Website: www.phoenixchange.co.za

PHOENIX EXCHANGE AD M-A 2013_Invoice TOYOTA 16-8-05 2015/07/16 1:31 PM Page 1


Peugeot Citroën South Africa have moved and will take upposition in Rivonia, in the heart of Johannesburg’s Northernsuburbs. Following the announcement of a new streamlinedorganisation late last year, the move to new premises is an

addition to the new PCSA in South Africa, with many opportunitiesfor both brands, which will allow the company to continue its growthpath in the country.

The good news for customers, associates and business partnersalike is that, aparat from a shift of approximately six kilometres in amore-or-less westernly direction, everything else remains unchanged.

The new official address is Homestead Place, Corner 12th Avenue& Homestead Lane, Rivonia, Sandton 2128.

However, Peugeot Citroën South Africa can still be reached on thesame numbers, so there’s no need to change anything under contactson one’s phone or in the personal information manager of one’scomputer.

Switchboard +27 (0) 11879 7400Fax +27 (0) 11879 7494Peugeot Call Centre 0860 738 472Citroën Call Centre 0860 211 112Box Number - P.O. Box 380 Kelvin 2054

INDUSTRY UPDATE

peuGeot CitroËn saMoVe head oFFiCe

VW halts produCtionin BraZil

Volkswagen has halted production at its second-largest factoryin Brazil for three weeks, a local union said as a steep declinein demand forces carmakers to manage excess capacity.

VW has furloughed 4 200 workers at it plant in Taubate, about150 km northeast of Sao Paulo, a representative of the metalworkersunion said. The factory builds the top selling Go! hatchback, the Voyagesedan and the Up city car.

Volkswagens weak start to the year has seen it slip into third placein Brazil by sales, behind Fiat and General Motors. The UP was theninth most sold car in Brazil in January and February, selling at abouthalf the pace of the market-leading Fiat Palio.

As exports to Argentina have plunged and demand in Brazil hits itsworst downturn in over a decade, VW is cutting a shift at the Taubateplant and sending workers home for three weeks as part of thetransition, according to the union official. Just over a year ago, VWannounced an investment of 1.2 billion Reais ($370 million) at theplant to being producing the Up.

“If the UP were selling well, Volkswagen would be suffering a littleless. It would dampen the critical situation for the industry this year,”said automotive market analyst Raphael Galante of OikonomiaConsultants.

VW representatives declined to comment on the situation at thefactory, but issued a brief statement saying, “Volkswagen has made useof flexible methods to adjust production volume to the demands ofthe market,”

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TAKATA AIRBAGS AND CORPORATE DISGRACE


Much has been written all over the world about Takata, acompany with diverse interests in supplying theautomotive industry. Like Toyota the Takata Corp wereinitially focused on the production of textiles, and made

two critical decisions on the back of huge external pressure to feeda rapidly expanding market – production of airbags and the changeof gas generator technology.

For many years unlike companies such as Robert Bosch, Takatawere only really known to the vehicle manufacturers – until a majorglobal investigation into price fixing came to a head in Europe, Japanand the US during 2013. For the first time agencies from all threecountries simultaneously investigated allegations of price fixing in avariety of commodities, including seat belts as well as airbags. Manycompanies were fined and executives jailed across the threeprosecuting regions, including the major SRS suppliers – AutoLiv,Takata, TRW, Tokai Rika Co. The result for Takata was a fine of$71.3 million and three executives were jailed in the US.

However, bigger trouble was brewing for Takata – a situationwhich was recognised internally by late 2001 but it took until early2015 for the company to admit in public.

Airbags And What They DoThe first commercial application for airbags came in the US during

the 1970s, as a vital additional safety device. When used inconjunction with a seat belt the airbag can ensure the occupantcannot hit the steering wheel, dashboard or be hit by an obstaclefrom the side during an impact. The airbag is a deceleration device,so it has to:

1. Detect the severity of the impact – should any devices bedeployed

2. Deploy the available devices for the best outcome3. Each of the deployed airbags then has to inflate4. The occupant then makes contact with the airbag as it deflates. The whole process takes less than 0.2 of a second.The integrity of the body shell and the major components fitted

to it all influence the transfer of impact energy into the vehicle. Theresult is a series of deceleration curves for the vehicle taking intoaccount the production tolerances for the body joints andequipment variations (ie, mass changes across a model range). Thosecurves, or ‘crash pulses’ are what the deceleration sensors detect,and the SRS control module then deploys the appropriatecombination of airbags and seat belt pre-tensioners to ensure thebest outcome for the occupants.

The crash pulse and supplementary restraint system (SRS)deployment is developed by the vehicle manufacturer – if the actualcrash pulse is wrong then the airbags will deploy too early (theoccupant will hit hard structures inside the vehicle anyway) or toolate (the occupant will be severely injured or even killed because aninflating airbag has a skin speed between 140 and 320 km/h). Thetiming is critical – the occupant has to be moving in the direction ofthe airbag and contact it after it has started to deflate. Indeed thetechnology is finely balanced, and requires very accurate collisionrepair of the whole vehicle – not just the body panels – to restorethe SRS performance.

By the 1980s seat belt technology had near universal fitment, butcritically the US member states resisted the call for universal use byoccupants. The result was to have two types of airbag structure –larger airbags for un-restrained occupants in the US, and smallerairbags for restrained occupants in the rest of the world. This meantdeveloping two distinct SRS packages, and initially the SRS suppliersmight have found they were building only one type of componentfor a given model range.

Now we can see that if the airbag is going to be inflated it has tooccur quickly and precisely – and this goes to the heart of SRStechnology.

Gassing AwayThe airbag is folded carefully inside the cassette, with a talc or

cornflower agent to ensure it will unfold very quickly even if it hasnot been used for 10 years. The bag is designed with carefully

controlled fabric structure that allows the gas inside it to escape atthe desired rate – so the airbag is a very carefully engineeredcomponent, dedicated to the vehicle application. The airbag isinflated by burning a chemical in a controlled fashion to generate therequired volume of gas – again this is a very carefully engineeredcomponent dedicated to the vehicle application. Most of the airbagsystems use nitrogen as the working gas.

The rate of burn, and thus gas generation, is controlled by thenumber of wafers or pellets inside the inflator cartridge. The particlesof debris are captured by filters around the inflator cartridge case,and there are some traces of sodium azide (which is poisonous) alsopass through into the car interior. The residue left in the inflatorwould contain sodium, so to negate this, additional chemicals wereadded to stabilise the remaining ‘ash’, including silica and potassiumnitrate.

Production of the airbag inflator material (a mix of sodium azideand oxidising agent) was done in small batches in order to mitigatethe risk of destroying the whole production plant should an accidentoccur, just as is the case for munitions. The inflator powder onceprepared is pressed into either pellets or wafers, and then built intothe inflator cassette. The advantage of this first generation ‘standard’SRS inflator was the production process, adapted from a longestablished and mostly safe system (munitions), the chemicals wererelatively stable and the end user benefits far outweighed the risks.

Enter TakataIn 1985 Takata took a momentous step, under pressure from

Honda, to use the engineering fabric technology they had for theproduction of airbags. They quickly became an accepted globalsupplier for this technology, using the same inflator technology as therest of the suppliers. The SRS suppliers were under pressure toeliminate sodium azide from airbags because the un-deployedmaterials is very, very toxic to humans. The search was on for areplacement technology.

Takata blew the opposition away by announcing in 1999 that theyhad a sodium azide free solid propellant inflator – tetrazole. Theautomotive world swamped Takata with orders, and the companyunderwent rapid expansion whilst building new production plants inMexico, as well as in the US. Concerns soon surfaced as the supplyof tetrazole was uncertain, and could not keep up with demand….so by 2001 the company switched to ammonium nitrate instead.Commonly used in industrial explosives, this material was extremelysensitive to moisture content and prone to aging too. Critically, all

FUTURE TECH - by Andrew Marsh

Typ ica l ear ly SRS ai r bag const ruct ion. The SRS cont rol moduleact ivat ion s igna l goes to a res istance w ire which heats a sma l lpyrotechnic charge, which then in i t iates burn ing the gasgenerator pel le ts – which in th is case are made from sodiumaz ide and an ox idis ing agent , p ressed into pel le ts .© A l ista i rCrooks


the other SRS suppliers rejected this material due to instability, butTakata claimed they had a process that could stabilise the material.

What Went Wrong?The first case of identifiable airbag failure occurred in 2009 when

a seven-year old Honda had a low speed car park nudge whichdeployed the airbag. The driver’s jugular vein was severed – theaccident investigation began. Three months later, the same thinghappened, also on an older Honda. The investigation showed thedebris, which had caused the fatal injuries, was parts of the driver’sairbag gas generator steel case – the gas generator had exploded, notproducing gas as it was designed to do. Takata said nothing.

The number of incidents began to rise, and the US NationalHighway Traffic Safety Authority (NHTSA) started an investigationbut closed it down by 2010 due to lack of evidence. The number ofincidents continued to rise, and the vehicle manufacturers panicked.There was no sensible support from Takata, there was no logicalreason for these problems – and yet the problem was occurring withgreater frequency. The vehicle manufacturers had to act becausetheir reputation was on the line.

NHTSA re-engaged with the investigation, and the Senatedemanded a hearing. Recalls were sporadic, dealing with only thedriver’s side airbag and only for the hot/humid states of the US – yetstill the problems surfaced right across the US and beyond. Takatasaid nothing.

The Senate hearing committee demanded a public hearing.Takata appeared, said there was no fault and refused to allowinvestigators access to internal documents. The Senate hearingcommittee were angered by the delaying tactics and demanded co-operation, fining Takata $14 000 for each day they failed to giveaccess. One former employee told the committee the issues werefound back in 2001, and how the company knew of the instabilityissues certainly before 2004 – the point where Honda wereinformed.

Safety at all of the Takata plants was paramount and there wereno significant breaches of the comprehensive safety rules – but theproduction process was not perfect. Company inspectors found asearly as 2002 that ammonium nitrate production was left open tothe atmosphere during extended shut down periods (weekends,holidays) instead of being put into dry storage. There were concernsabout the life span of the gas generator, and demand was so highsome of the gas generator modules were built with too fewpellets/wafers. Finally the gas generator case design left some opendesign/function issues. All of these issues were flagged internally butnot shared with all of Takata’s clients, orexternal agencies.

Takata admitted there was a problem forthe first time on 19th May 2015.

What Was The Result?As the panic raged the vehicle

manufacturers – who had made it very clearthat Takata gave them no answers – decidedto replace the oldest modules with brandnew ones. From the position in mid-2014 toMarch 2015, the replacement programmemoved from driver’s side airbags in thehot/humid states to all airbags in most USstates – and beyond.

On the 15th May 2015 the bombshellwas dropped. Already younger vehicles wereappearing with the same symptoms, andTakata finally admitted that there was anissue and theoretically even brand new unitscoming off the assembly line right nowwould end up with the same issue.

Of the 500 000 vehicles repaired in theUS alone, all would have to be re-workedwith an alternative technology. Takata alonehad used ammonium nitrate – the other

SRS suppliers eventually found alternatives to sodium azide and hadnone of the issues Takata faced.

What Happens Next?The recall programme across the world will roll out slowly. Each

vehicle manufacturer will decide which vehicles (by VIN) and whatparts should be replaced, and when – so the aftermarket is going tobe 100% guided by the vehicle manufacturers/importers.

For the SRS suppliers the pressure is on. Already duplicate toolsets and in the case of older vehicles, re-commissioned tooling isunderway. Inflator modules have been bought from competitorcompanies by Takata to help start working away at the enormousrecall programme. Overall for the SRS sector, this whole affair hasbeen very damaging in the eyes of the general public.

And For Repairers?Unlike the normal service outlets collision repairers remove and

refit SRS modules routinely. The rules around that are as strict asever:

l Ensure the capacitor is fully discharged (wait around 10 minutesafter disconnecting the battery).

l Remove the un-deployed SRS module without ever beingdirectly in front of it.

l Keep the doors of the vehicle open.l Place the un-deployed SRS module in a designated safety

container, away from the main work area, sources of heat and lots ofpeople.

There is an opportunity – to help customers, insurers and vehiclemanufacturers understand – by asking the vehicle manufacturer orimporter if the vehicle under repair is affected by a Takata-relatedrecall.

An estimated 36 000 people are alive in the US alone, thanks toairbags deployed over the past decade and a half. But dozens ofpeople have lost their lives because an issue raised within Takataduring 2001 was not dealt with – an issue which was finally confirmedin 2015. For collision repairers there is no real operational issue aslong as accepted work practice is followed without fail.

Auto Industry C onsulting is an independent provider of technicalinformation to the global co llision repair industry. Products includeEziMethods, our online co llision repair methods system and AutoIndustry Insider, our co llision repair industry technical informationwebsite. Fo r mo re info rmation please v isit the websites:www.ezimethods.com and www.auto industryinsider.com or contactben.cardy@auto industryconsulting.com


www.autoindustryinsider.com

A typical frontal impact energy transfer system, as shown on the Fiat 500. The main load path remains via thefront chassis longitudinals, but as the impact progresses it will engage the front subframe and finally the upperfront longitudinal. The migration from one to three load paths has occurred since around 2002. The front firewallis supported by load transfer via the doors and the A pillar / sill / cant rail to ensure passenger safety cell stability.© FCA Europe


Designed around Peugeot’s new-generation Efficient ModularPlatform 2 (EMP2), the new 308combines compact, wieldy

dimensions and a substantially reduced kerbmass with an advanced, high-efficiencydrivetrain to deliver exceptional dynamics andfrugal fuel consumption.

The interior execution reflects theadvanced nature of the 308, as well as closeattention to design detail, high comfort levelsand tactile quality. The cockpit designcombines deeply recessed, highly visibleinstrument dials with a large, full-colourtouchscreen display, while a multifunctionsteering wheel further benefits intuitive accessto key functions and features.

Mirroring a design trend first introduced bythe 208 and 2008, the 308’s ergonomic layoutcombines a small-diameter steering wheelwith an elevated instrument binnacle, allowingan unencumbered view of the road and thekey instrumentation.

Despite the fact that the new 308 is morecompact than its predecessor, efficientpackaging and intelligent design conspire tocreate a roomy cabin with spaciousaccommodation for front and rear occupants.

Smart finishes, including textured surfaces,metallic accents and high-gloss inserts,

establish an upmarket ambience, adding to thenew Peugeot 308’s feel-good character.

Practicality remains a further 308attraction, with a generous luggagecompartment, and a 60/40-split rear benchseat that can be partly or completely foldedflat to boost cargo space. A five-star Euro-NCAP rating underscores the new Peugeothatchback’s exceptional safety standards, witha comprehensive array of active and passivesafety features.

The new Peugeot 308 is initially offered intwo variants, both employing Peugeot’s latest,high-efficiency PureTech engine technology.The cutting-edge, three-cylinder powerplantincorporates high-pressure direct injection,four valves per cylinder and high-pressureturbocharging.

The result is a small-capacity engine withcompact dimensions and low mass thatemulates the power and torque of a muchlarger, more conventional and less efficientpower plant, while achieving clear benefits asfar as reduced exhaust emissions and lowerfuel consumption are concerned.

Starting off the range is the Peugeot 308Active, which is fitted with the 1.2 PureTeche-THP 110 engine. It produces maximumpower output of 81kW at 5 500 r/min,combined with a generous 205 Nm of torque,

available from just 1 500 r/min. A five-speedmanual gearbox is standard.

By comparison, the 1.2 PureTech e-THP130 engine fitted to the 308 GT Line elevatesthose output levels even further. Maximumpower increases to an impressive 96kW at 5500 r/min, while torque now peaks at 240Nm,already on song from only 1 750 r/min. TheGT Line model gets a six-speed manualgearbox with optimised ratios.

The differences between the Active andGT Line models extend to exterior stylingdetails and interior trim and equipment levels.For instance, the GT Line gains full LEDheadlights, a different grille, and twin, narrow-aperture tailpipes, as well as larger alloywheels and more brightwork.

While both models offer a comprehensivearray of standard equipment, the GT Linegains an extended features list, together withenhanced trim levels. However, the 9,7-inchtouchscreen display is standard on bothvariants.

The new Peugeot 308 is supported by acomprehensive service and warranty offeringthat includes a three-year/100 000 kmmanufacturer warranty, a five-year 60 000km premium maintenance plan, and a three-year/100 000 km roadside assistance package.

DRiVEn PEUGEOT 308 1.2 PURETECH GT LINE




Meguiar’s is well known for its superior attention to detailwhen it comes to detailing and vehicle appearance. This iswhy it is the brand of choice for car enthusiasts andprofessional detailers around the world. It is thus logical

that the brand also offers discerning auto body shops acomprehensive range of products for refinish.

Amongst the newest products to be launched by Meguiar’s tomeet the demands of the refinish industry are M105 Ultra CutCompound, M205 Ultra Finishing Polish and M305 Ultra FinishingDurable Glaze. While this trio can be used independently of oneanother, truly amazing results are achieved when they are usedtogether. This trio is entirely paint shop safe, containing no waxes orsilicones. They also contain no fillers, meaning that what you see iswhat you get – no annoying and time consuming returns from thewash bay. Further, they take ease of use to another level; VOCcompliant formulas with no dust and no need to add water duringthe polishing process – making for a clean car and a clean workenvironment.

1. Ultra Cut Compound uses a modern SMAT or Super-MicroAbrasive Technology which, unlike traditional abrasives, does notdiminish or wear down as you work. It continues to work as long asyou do. It very quickly and safely removes 1200 grit sanding markswhether wet or dry and by hand or orbital sander. The finish it leavesis remarkable and even on darker colours, is often said to be goodenough to require no second step, such is the quality and refinementin the abrasives that this compound contains. Ultra Cut Compoundcan be used with either a wool pad or a foam cutting pad on a rotarypolisher, while tight areas can be accessed by hand application.

2. To refine the finish further,leaving an incredible gloss and depthin the paint finish is M205 UltraFinishing Polish. Containing the sameSMAT abrasive technology, paintfinishes are left crystal clear.

3. For an unmatchable gloss andconcours winning shine, M305 UltraFinishing Durable Glaze is intendedspecifically for body shops that wishto offer their customer paint shop safe, totally silicone and wax freeprotection. Unlike normal paint protection products, this will not sealup the paint surface thus trapping solvents and delaying curing. Assuch, it also represents a nice sell-on opportunity for body shops ascustomers are typically advised to leave their fresh and vulnerablepaint finishes unprotected for a few weeks after the re-spray. Goodfor the composites industry too:

Beyond this, M105 and M205 are highly effective on gel coatedfinishes common on fibreglass and other composite parts, removingfine swirls and oxidation from finished parts and even effortlessremoval of sanding marks from tooling gel coats and moulds. Thismakes these products ideal for those manufacturing or refurbishingcomposite parts in almost any industry, from automotive to aircraftand from caravans to boats.

For more information or a free demonstration on how Meguiar’scan help you get world class finishes, call Keizin Automotive, theimporter of this globally recognised and respected brand on0861-CARGUY [227489] See more at www.keizin.co.za.

PRODUCT NEWS

hi-teCh trio FroM MeGuiar’s

WHAT’S HOT?


Energy efficient IRT systems are global market leaders in therefinish curing industry. The Swedish technology can be seenin both new production installations and panel and paintshops around the world.

Characterised by having the shortest drying times in the entireindustry, IRT systems are a well thought out and tested design andare based on user-friendliness, performance and efficiency. IRTHyperion PrepCure units have the most efficient FreeForm reflectorswith a 24 carat gold coating behind their short wave lamps. Thisprovides a more even heat distribution resulting in larger curing areasand shorter curing times than any other conventional reflectors. Thisefficient use of energy is why the IRT Infrared range increasesproductivity and enhances the quality of the drying result as yourpaint is better depth hardened than usual drying methods.

IRT systems have the unit to suit the application. Small to mediumrepairs units like the single casette IRT 3-1PcD, speeds up drying offillers, primers, base and clear coats and comes with built-inelectronic distance sensors allowing the user more advanced controlof the drying process.

Larger units like IRT 4-2 PcAuto with two powerful cassettes,cures all paint materials and comes with 12 pre-set and 3 customprogrammes and advanced temperature measurement via lasercircle and digital distance sensor. This can also be retrofitted into an

IRT Hyperion Rail System which is very popular in panel and paintshops due to the speed in drying cycle and unsurpassed reach.

With powerful built-in ventilation cooling the Infrared casettes,they are said to last for 20 000 operating hours, this coupledtogether with gold coated reflectors extend the life of the lampssignificantly.

IRT Hyperion control functions are easy to understand and use –even on the most advanced models. There is a programme for eachheating requirement and it starts with the simple push of a button.The laser shows where the temperature is continuously measuredon the curing surface, while the microprocessor regulates theeffective output up or down in a split second for optimal curingresults. As an operator you can continuously monitor the curingprocess and receive information on object temperature andelapsed/remaining programme time.

Start the control unit, select a programme and then dry. It’s assimple as that. Customised electrical systems are designed andmanufactured to suit specific requirements if need be.

So escape the slower throughput numbers in your shop andcheck out Celette SA’s website www.celette.co.za for the completeIRT Hyperion range from hand held dryers to rail or archsystems.You can also call their offices on +27 (0)11 314 1875/6 .


SPEED UP WINTERPRODUCTION WITHIRT SYSTEMS

SPEED UP WINTERPRODUCTION WITHIRT SYSTEMS

WHAT’s HoT?

IRT 4-2PcAuto

I R T 4 - 1PcAuto

IRT rai l system

IRT PrepCure 1 ,2&3

IRT PowerCure Arch


CELETTE AD M-J 2015_Layout 1 2015/05/18 10:55 AM Page 1

VERMONT N-D 2014 ADS_Layout 1 2015/02/03 11:26 AM Page 2


For about three months now I’ve been thinking about fitting adash cam to the windscreen of my car to record – if only forposterity – the antics of fellow motorists who break every ruleof the South African highway code – assuming there was ever

one in the first place.After nearly losing the front of my car – and quite possibly a close

shave with death – to a driver in the fast lane of the N5 in CapeTown who decided to swerve across two lanes after missing his exit– so as you might imagine, I was absolutely livid.

In the event of a crash it would simply have been his word againstmine – assuming we had both survived the day. But there’s a positivestep you can take – and its called the dash cam – a neat visualrecorder device that’s seemingly obligatory on Russian roads due totheir notoriously bad driving habits – but proving extremely popularin Europe and especially the UK, where the device has been usedsuccessfully in evidence on a great many occasions to settle insuranceclaims.

I’ll wager these devices will catch on big time here in SA because,let’s face it, there’s a lot drivers whether in cars, bakkies, taxis ortrucks who by the way they drive can’t possibly have ever taken agovernment driving test – and officially passed.

Perusing a commercial website renowned for selling anythingfrom A-Z, I came across a dash cam being offered for R600 in thephotographic section. I duly bought same but the video quality wasreally poor and within a few days had packed up, an expensive lesson– so back it was to the drawing board, so to speak.

A good quality dedicated dash cam will set you back R3000,certainly more than I wanted to pay. But I do have an elderly smartphone, and sure enough there’s a whole bunch of ‘Apps’ that coverdash cam technology.

I tried three or four of them before deciding on the one thatworked for me before deciding to spend the princely sum of R39 tobuy the HD version of the App.

Without getting too technical the App – once data was loadedon the phone to get the best out of it – records continuously andshould the need arise to record, say, the last 60 seconds of viewing(perhaps a similar incident that could have had tragic consequences

like the one mentioned above), the programme would do this as wellby the simple expedient of pressing a button on the LCD screen.

Still-type photos can also be taken if perhaps you are beingthreatened or feel abused by another motorist. Conversely, thisdevice works extremely well if you simply want to record that tripacross Chapman’s Pass in Cape Town, or that trip you’ve beenpromising yourself through Kruger National Park.

Should there be an instance where the App detects seriousdeceleration (trying to avoid an obstacle or perhaps a pedestrian)smart phones will automatically take care of this as well, thanks to thebuilt-in and thus activated accelerometer – along with ‘locking in’ thatsection of footage so it can’t be overridden.

Suffice to say all that was left to do was devise a way to mountthe phone onto the windscreen. That cheap and nasty dash cam Ihad already bought thankfully came with a ‘stick-on’ sucker mountand put to good use. The only other part you need is a smart phoneholder. This came courtesy of one of these ‘Selfie’ tripod armsavailable from most camera shops, priced at around R180.

Now, every time I get into the car and buckle up it’s easy enoughto hook up the ‘Fall’ dash cam/smart phone, aim it forward and let itbe your very own ‘aircraft-style black box’ to record any regrettableincidents that might come your way any time or any place.

To sum up, the above system works well but I’ve discovered twoissues that need to be addressed. The first is to be sure to ‘power-up’ the phone all the time (easily achieved with a charge cableplugged into the cigarette lighter or USB plug) as the phone batteryalone does take a big hit while recording.

Secondly, as you might imagine the phone tends to get ratherwarm pressed up against the windscreen glass. My particular phonecame with a plastic case, I simply removed it and inserted a sheet ofsilver paper (a basic heat sink) between it and the casing, being sureto cut out a ‘window’ for the camera lens to peek through.

Lastly, and certainly more importantly you can now drive in amore relaxed fashion safe in the knowledge that everything ahead ofyou is being recorded – but be sure not to wind down the carwindow and call someone an ‘idiot’ as the conversation will berecorded audibly as well as visually by your dash cam!

inDUSTRY NEWS

STAY COOl, CAlM AND COllECTED

WHaT’S HoT?

by Dave Fall

I f you have a smart phone i t ’seasy to set i t up as a dashcam – your l i fe might even

depend on i t .


The automotive industry will seemore than 370 million softwaresystems used to integratesmartphone applications in

vehicles in-use by 2020, according to arecent report from IHS Automotive.

And what’s more, those features arebecoming increasingly important toconsumers. According to the J.D. Power2014 U.S. Automotive EmergingTechnologies Study, the majority of vehicleowners are willing to pay for smartphonefunctionality.

Among vehicle owners who say they“definitely would” or “probably would”purchase specific technologies on theirnext vehicle, the highest percentageselected fuel economy, device/applicationlinking for smartphones, wirelessconnectivity, natural language voiceactivation and infotainment features. Inolder vehicles, retrofitting is becoming apopular option, as well.

Bottom line: In-vehicle technology isevolving rapidly, and this could spellserious opportunity for auto repair shops.“The fact of the matter is, the days ofletting the quality of the vehicle and theweather do our marketing are quicklycoming to an end,” says Rick White,

president of One Eighty Business Solutionsand an industry consultant. “Because wedon’t have those repairs, there are a lot ofshops scrambling for car count. One of theways they can supplement that car count isto add technology add-ons.”

Using technology as an additional profitcenter can be a way to differentiate yourshop from the competition and get aheadof the curve. Working with various “add-ons” to vehicles can give business a boost,too. Installing and fixing GPS andentertainment systems and otherelectronic services can turn into asuccessful profit center for business.

Before doing so, however, there are afew considerations to keep in mind,including how to stay up on thetechnology, what technology to look intoand how to properly equip and train yourstaff to handle all of the technology that avehicle has today.

“When you talk about programmingand software and that avenue, there’s hugepotential there.” —Josh Mellor, owner,Mellor’s Automotive.

The Benefits. Technology add-ons maynot be the top moneymaker in your shopyet, but they will lead to new customergeneration, says Josh Mellor, owner of

Mellor’s Automotive in West Melbourne,Fla. Mellor was one of the first in his areato work on these jobs and has created anadditional profit center by working onthese types of services and repairs.

There are a number of benefits toadding new technology services to yourshop:

1. Planning for the future. IHSAutomotive reported that smartphoneapp systems are currently at 6.9 millionunits in 2014, with expected growth to370 million units by 2020. The number ofOEM-installed connected car infotainmentsystems will reach 34.2 million unitsshipped worldwide by the end of 2018,according to ABI Research forecasts.

Apple CEO Tim Cook also recentlysaid that every major car brand has nowcommitted to using CarPlay. The bottomline is that these technologies aresignificant.

“Mobile apps for autos are growingrapidly and will have a profound impact onauto infotainment and connectivity in thenext decade,” says Egil Juliussen, researchdirector at IHS Automotive. “Auto appswill influence the competitive landscapeamong auto manufacturers and will evenchange the brand market share between

INdUSTRy NEWS

TECHNOLOGY AS A PROFIT CENTRE


FUTURE OPPORTUNITIES


them. OEMs will have to keep up toremain competitive.”

2. Customer demographics. Millennialstopped Generation X in new-car buyingfor the first time last year. And it’s nosecret that the millennial generation willsoon become your shop’s dominantdemographic. One way to appeal tomillennials is through new technology,White says. According to a studyconducted by Yahoo, the majority ofmillennials want cars with new technologylike Bluetooth and infotainment systems.

3. It’s new business. Mellor says that ifyou’re not working on these types ofservices, you’re giving away work andturning away potential new clients. He sayshis shop has gained new customers due tobeing one of the only independent shopsable to perform these services.

“When you talk about programmingand software and that avenue, there’s hugepotential there,” he says. “As far as being aprofit center, it saves you from having totow a car across town to be programmedafter you installed a computer or module.

“We’ve gotten new customers fromthe parts houses. Say a Carquest [store]sells someone an engine-control moduleand they send them to us. That customerprobably already has a shop, but their shopwasn’t equipped to do it.

“We’ve won some of those customersbecause we were technical and qualifiedenough to do what needs to be done.”

What You Need

While there is some investment,training and time needed to be able toperform these services, White and Melloragree that it is fairly minimal. Grasp oncustomer base. There are a number ofdifferent add-ons that could be tappedinto, so White says the first step needs tobe identifying the needs of your target

customer.“I like focus and clarity. It’s the

difference between being a light bulb anda laser,” he says. “I want to offer servicesthat my customer will eat up.”

For example, he says that if the majorityof your vehicles are older, consider gettinginto retrofitting. If many of your customersare parents, installing rearview camerascould be a helpful add-on. Consider howyou could help make a customer’s vehiclemore convenient.

Mellor says that he looks at what’sinteresting to him, his tech’s capabilitiesand his customer’s needs.

“There’s not a lot of shops going afterthis kind of market right now,” says White.“It’s really wide open. There’s a bunch ofconvenience and safety items that you canuse or offer your customer.”

Training. This is where the biggestinvestment needs to be made. “There’s adisparity between qualified technicians andwhat the independent shops need,” Mellorsays. “A lot of times, the dealership-leveltechs have the training. I know some othershop owners and I come from thetechnician side, there’s weakness when itcomes to the technology side of things.”

Mellor says that there is ample trainingavailable for technicians to learnprogramming, how to read wiringdiagrams and perform these installations.And, he says, the learning curve isn’tterribly steep.

“Given the skillset most techs havewhen it comes to technology, it’s notanything spectacular that you have to doto install a navigation unit,” he says. “It’s alittle above installing a regular car stereo.”

Tools. The nice thing is, Mellor says, afully operational shop already has most ofthe equipment it needs to work on theseadd-ons. The only item essential to thiskind of work is a J2534 tool.

Mellor says that the generic J2534 hasimproved dramatically recently and iseasier to use. On the software side, hesays it’s not necessary to buy an annualsubscription for the manufacturerinformation.

“We don’t do enough of any one maketo buy the subscription for the wholeyear,” he says. “We simply buy it asneeded and it’s billed accordingly. Everymanufacturer is different. For a GM, it’s a$55 subscription for three days. ForVolkswagen, it’s $30.”

Mellor recommends using theprogramming matrix from NASTF tocheck manufacturer availability, pricingstructure and software requirements.

White says this is where the training isespecially important and why it’s importantnot to use menu pricing and instead priceon value. “It has to be specific to thevehicle,” he says. “The reality is, wecompete on value, not on price. do youwant someone who’s not trained? Orwould you rather have someone who’s acertified master tech putting this stuff intoyour car? That’s the big part. If you’re goingto worry about price, it’s a race to thebottom.”

Marketing. It makes no sense toperform these services and not let yourcustomers know it is an option for theirvehicles, White says. He suggests shifting aportion of your current marketing budgettoward this aspect of your business to getthe word out and position yourself as anexpert, which will help attract customers.

“The trend is that more and morepeople will have these,” he says. “It’s just amatter of a few years before that stuff isgoing to come to you anyway and youstart seeing it. It’s going to be out thereand how long can you tell someone thatyou can’t work on that? It kills me. I can’tstand to tell anyone that.”


What types of things cancollision repairers upsell tocustomers when theirvehicle is already at the

shop? Steve Trapp, collision servicesdevelopment manager, DuPontPerformance Coatings.

Upselling additional services can benefitcollision repair shops. DuPontPerformance Coatings conducted aninformal survey of collision shopcustomers, which revealed that 65% ofcustomers are willing to considerpurchasing an additional service.

As always, start by analyzing thedamage on customer vehicles, and givethem solid advice on the issue they initiallycame in for.

After that, you have earned the right to

ask customers if they would like you toassess their vehicle for any additionaldamage or to discuss other services. If thecustomer agrees, then proceed withputting together a package of potentialupsells that would benefit them.

Every customer will be in a differentsituation regarding extra services theymight need. It’s important for shopemployees to listen to the customer’sneeds, look over their vehicle closely andput together a package that fits thoseneeds.

There are many things that collisionrepair shops can upsell. The following arejust a few ideas, which are ranked by theirfrequency of success:

1. Paintless dent removal2. Detail

3. Glass repair or replacement4. Cosmetic ding and dent removal5. Headlight restoration6. Tires and wheel alignmentThere are training options available for

shops that want to improve their upsellingskills. Most paint companies offer training.DuPont, for example, offers two classescalled Customer Care & Advisory Selling Iand II.

In general, the key to getting customersto accept the upsell is to offer it in theform of advice.

Use an advisory tone of voice, andexplain to the customer how theadditional repair or service will add valueto their vehicle, or allow them to feel saferwhile driving.

wHAT Add-ONS CAN REPAIRERS SELL TO CuSTOmERERS?

WHAT’S HOT?

by Anna Zack


SCANGRIP is a new LED ultra highCRI colour recognition system that isportable for workshop use in bothbody shop preparation polishing and

colour room areas. The units make it easyto discover colour differences and exposeswirl marks to avoid costly reworksituations.

SCANGRIP MULTIMATCHSCANGRIP products are from Denmark

and come in a special presentation case.These tools are working solutions for anycolour matching needs that occur in thepaint shop. The MULTIMATCH LED worklight uses ultra high CRI colour renderingindex LED light which is extremely sturdy.

The unit is rechargeable and has aworking capability of up to six hours ofbattery time. It is also easy to use andshows colour differences immediately. Inuse it delivers 600/2000 lumens of highpower and is extremely sturdily designedfor everyday use.

SCANGRIP SUNMATCHThe SUNMATCH SCANGRIP is an

easily held hand tool for inspection use andhas a rechargeable LED lamp for supercolour recognition ability. SUNMATCHuses a two-step light output 400 or 180lumens for on-the-go three-hour use oneach charge.

It also features an intelligent power offfunction that will turn off the unit afterthree minutes of full power to prevent LEDoverheating. It’s also dust proof andwaterproof and has a battery indicator at itsbase.

SCANGRIP MATCHPENThe SCANGRIP MATCHPEN which is

also powered with ultra high colourrendering index technology. It fits easily intoany pocket and is easy to carry anywhere. Itis powered by an IP54 battery which isincluded in the kit.

The MATCHPEN has a built-in focus of10-70 degrees with a glass lens that isreplaceable and easily cleaned. The powergenerated is 100 lumens.

SCANGRIP colour matching tools havemultiple uses in any workshop where goodcolour matching available light may be poor.It’s an ideal working tool to avoid costlyreject colour matching problems.

Available from Bulldog Abrasivescontact them on +27 (0)11 786 5991 [email protected].

inDUSTRY UPDATE

BUllDOG ABRASIVESlAUNCH SCANGRIP TOOlS fOR COlOUR MATCHING

R E F I NI S H E R

UTOMOTIVEAAUTOMOTIVE

PRoDUCT PRoFilE

3. SCANGR IP MULT IMATCH.

1. SCANGRIP MATCHPEN. 2. SCANGR IP SUNMATCH.

SCANGR IP Co lour Match ing Tools come in a smart hard case to keep the too ls in per fectwork ing condi t ion and for handy sto rage.

62


SCANGRIP PAGE_Layout 1 2015/07/16 2:04 PM Page 1


The large number of workshops, conferences andpresentations at the recent Automechanika Johannesburgprovided plenty of food for thought. Much of theinformation was of a specific, targeted technical nature, but

there were also several presentations by gurus who are economiccommentators.

Here is what some of them had to say: The well-attended Focus conference had an interesting array of

speakers who covered a variety of topics that were of real value tothose involved in the transport industry.

One of the speakers who provided plenty of valuable informationand some worrying statistics was Loane Sharp, an economist at theFree Market Foundation, who spoke on the future of labour in SA.

He said that besides the increase in unemployment, labourproductivity was the lowest since 1970 when records of thismeasurement were kept for the first time. Interestingly theemployment peak in SA had been reached in 1988 and since thenunemployment had grown. The biggest declines have been in themining and agricultural sectors which have been the backbone of theSA economy for many years.

Sharp questioned the massive rise in employment in the publicsector, which had grown from 1.3-million people in 1995 to thecurrent level of three million, and placed a big burden on theeconomy

Another interesting point made by Sharp was the fact that unionmembership is declining and there are now more union members inthe civil service than in the private sector. Overall one in four workersin SA is a union member, but in the private sector the ratio is oneunion member for every eight workers.

Renowned political and trend analyst, JP Landman, sees theshortage and intermittent supply of electricity as the major constrainton the South African economy at present. Speaking at a breakfast ofthe Motor Industry Staff Association (MISA), he said it was vital thatpower generation projects to ease the situation be fast-tracked.

Landman provided detailed facts and statistics to support hiscontention that a satisfactory and stable supply of electricity is vitalnot only for the effective functioning of industry and business –especially manufacturing – but it also had a very negative effect onbusiness confidence and the sentiment of the general public.

He highlighted the massive effect the lack of regular maintenanceover the years has had on the state of the generating equipment,saying the maximum capacity of Eskom and non-Eskom powergeneration was 44 149mW but only 29 000mW is being generatedin recent times which equates to a 34% shortfall due to planned and

unplanned maintenance and repairs. Landman said that demand wasrunning at 31 000mW and this situation where demand farexceeded supply had to be rectified urgently.

However, on the positive side Landman added that there wasongoing substantial investment in infrastructure by the government.This amounted to R1.02-trillion (6.7% of GDP) for the five years to2013 and stands at R1.08-trillion (6.2% of GDP) for the four yearsto 2017.

This is the highest economic infrastructure spend in 25 years.Major beneficiaries are transport and logistics (R339.2-billion),energy (R166.3-billion) and water and sanitation (R117.4-billion).

Landman went on to debunk the perception that the cost of anextensive and expanding social grant system was a drag on theeconomy. In fact he said that even the current support for 17-millionpeople equated to only 3.1% of GDP which is similar to the situation10 years ago and provides stimulus to the economy in terms ofpurchasing power while helping to alleviate poverty.

Another very interesting observation made by this popularanalyst was the fact that one must not consider a GDP growth ratein isolation. He said it must always be read in conjunction withpopulation growth. Here he gave the example of sub-Saharan Africawhere there was a GDP growth rate of 5%, but this was negated bya 5.8% rise in population numbers. This meant that people in thatregion were, in fact, getting poorer on a per capita basis.

The opportunities and challenges for South African automotivecompanies wanting to export products into Africa came under thespotlight at a conference staged by the National Association ofAutomotive Component and Allied Manufacturers (NAACAM).

Well-known economist Mike Schussler gave an interestingoverview of the automotive industry’s potential in Africa. Hecautioned that although the continent has a huge population themajority of people are under 18 years of age and therefore most ofthem were not yet economically active, so the true market size wasnot as big as some people estimate. However, he added thateducation levels in Africa were rising rapidly which boded well forbusiness growth in the future.

Schussler said that SA’s economy was now ranked only third inAfrica behind Nigeria and Egypt and it could fall out of the globaltop 40 if there is no significant GDP growth in the near future.

He went on to say that it was vital that the SA automotiveindustry was productive and cost efficient to ensure its prices werecompetitive in Africa. He added that it was important there was adecrease in industrial action in SA as this impacted negatively onproductivity and hence global competitiveness.

NEWS FROM THE ZOO - by Roger Houghton

looKinG to the Future

JP Landman, the well known South African political and economic analystrevealed some frightening statistics with regard to the electricity supply positionin SA when he addressed the MISA breakfast at Automechanika Johannesburg.


STANDOX AD J-A 2015_Layout 1 2015/07/13 1:04 PM Page 1

Thank you for the enormous interestshown at automechanika with thelaunch of our extended innovativerange of ROBeRLO products.

as the sole importer of ROBeRLO since2014, Q-Brands has breathed new life intothe brand with an exciting range of newimproved putties, clears and primers toeffectively combat all other products at costeffective prices and to boost the productivityin your body shop.

Our ever-increasing network ofdistributors is now in your area and this willmake it easier for you to order your favoriteROBeRLO products.

We are in the process of launching oureconomy Star range. this range is ideal forover the counter sales and the dIY marketas it is sold in a pre-packed kit comprising:1kg Star putty; 1 litre express primer; 500mlStar Clear and 500ml p5000 hardener, all atvery competitive prices.

We also have a dedicated team oftechnicians at your disposal. Give us a calland they will demonstrate the high standardof quality and prove the cost effectiveness ofthe range that you know Roberlo to be.

Watch this space for more news on theROBeRLO dISOLaC Industrial paint MixingSystem creating more than 9,000 colours.

Silver Light Lightweight Body Fillerthis is a multipurpose filler for all jobs, big

or small with excellent filling properties. Ithas great adhesion to all metals and is easyto sand even with finer grits. It is available in3 litre tin sizes.

Plus 12 & Star 3000 Puttythese putties are excellent for vertical

applications and level out deepimperfections. It is ideal for deep filling andlarge repairs. It has a fast drying times thatallows for a faster start than standardpolyester fillers. It is available in 4kg and 900grams and boasts excellent adhesion to steeland polyester.

Multifiller Express Primerthe Multifiller express primer is a 4:1 HS

primer that has an excellent balancebetween covering and fast drying. It has a dryfilm thickness of 80-100 microns and comesin a 1 and 4 litre tin size option. It can beused with p5000/p6000 Hardeners, whichare available in 500ml and the 1 litre tin sizes.

IsolcarIsolcar is a 1K Light grey primer that is fast

drying with high levelling qualities. It comes in1 and 5 litre options.

Superior 150 HS Clearthis is a high solid easy to apply clear

coat for the car refinishing market. It is fastdrying with a high gloss that is easy to polishthanks to its good balance between dryingand curing times. You can get them in500ml, 1 and 5 litre tin sizes. It can be usedwith p5000/p6000 Hardeners, which areavailable in 500ml and the 1 litre tin sizes.

VT 141 Express Clearthis is a 4:1 medium solid clear coat. It’s

ultra-fast drying time is due to thecombination of rapid solvents used in its

formula, providing dust-free drying at 10minutes.

due to rapid drying times you will reduceyour work time and it is fast curing,convenient and energy saving. It is availablein 1 and 5 litre options. use it with Ct 6hardeners and is available in 250ml and0.945 litre tin sizes.

Contact Q-Brands for the completeinnovative range of ROBeRLO products aswell as the details of your nearestROBeRLO distributor.

Bookings now open for October’sComprehensive Roberlo Sales & trainingSeminar.

Our contact details at Q-Brands are:Lennard: +27 (0)11 4402714, Val: 082 9234373 and Geoff: 072 069 5423. Visit ourwebsite for more information on us atwww.qbrandssa.com

Most importantly: you know how wellROBeRLO works and we’re totallycommitted to helping you in any way wecan. ROBeRLO, you know it works and weare here to stay.

CoaTinGS update

what’s on offerfrom roberlo &qbrands sa?


brand profile


Please call for your nearest distribution outlet.

Tel: +27 (0)11 440 2714 Email: [email protected]

Mobile: +27 (0)82 923 4373 Website: www.QbrandsSA.com

SOLE IMPOR TER

We are passionate about our work and look to the future together with ROBERLO withenthusiasm. Winning and maintaining your trust is our sole objective. We believe that the

best way to do this is by providing you with outstanding products and an even better service.

Operating in over 100 countries, the spectacular growth the company has experienced isonly possible due to the high quality and the trust customers have in its products.

Roberlo is also approved by various insurance companies in Europe.

You know the product works, and it’s here to stay.

A leading European Manufacturer of Automotive Repair products

ROBERLO AD J-A 2015_Layout 1 2015/07/13 12:58 PM Page 1

INDUSTRY NEWS

WHAT’S HOT?

Petrol engines fitted to Mazda’s in five years’ time will besignificantly more petrol powered and more fuel efficient thantoday’s. Mazda is aiming to lift the efficiency of its petrolengines by 50% by 2020, according to European research and

development chief Kenichiro Saruwatari.The current efficiency of its petrol engines is a competitive 40%,

but it hopes to reach 60% in the next five years.It hopes to do this by developing its homogenous charge

compression ignition technology (HCCI) in which the mixture isignited by compression rather than a spark, like a diesel.

That will involve raising the compression ratio from about 14.0.1today to 18.0.1 and activating very precise control of the combustionprocess to avoid knocking. The aim is to combine the cleaneremissions of a petrol engine with the efficiency of a diesel.

As part of its Skyactiv efficiency programme, Mazda is alsoinvestigating scope for reducing heat loss through the exhaustsystem, which typicallly loses about 30% of the fuel’s energy. “We’re

looking at several solutions but can’t say which yet,” said Saruwatari.The company has been pursuing its current efficiency path since

the development of the 2002 Mazda 6, which was “Generation 1 ofthe roadmap,” Saruwatari said.

He said the next CX-5 crossover would be the first of theseventh generation. “The main direction of Skyactiv has not changed,”he added. “Although we sometimes find new technologies andmaterials that produce a step change,”

Mazda recently announced a partnership with Toyota that couldresult in a plug-in hybrid model, but it has said its petrol cars couldultimately match EVs for wheel-to-wheel efficiency. This could meanaveraging Co2 emissions of about 80g/km for an unspecified ‘average’model equipped with a Skyactiv Generation 2 engine.

The third generation of Skyactiv engines could take this evenfurther, Mazda has previously spoken of average wheel-to-wheelemissions as low as 50g/km, although it has not set a date for this.

MaZda Go all outFor eFFiCienCY


Kapci Coatings; Tel: +27 (0)11 834 1252

KAPCI AD J-A 2015_Layout 1 2015/07/13 12:47 PM Page 1


To answer areas that need ultrafast deliveries in Gauteng,Hurricane Equipment have opened up an all-newwarehouse in Corporate Park South, in Midrand. Andrewand Duncan Mackie have a 10-year success story under

their belts with year-on-year rapid growth with their product line-up. Andrew is upbeat about the future saying, “We have implemented

some great lines over the years for upgrading body shops who arelooking for good quality and better ways to improve their collisionrepair production. To this end, as a company, we have set a corporatepolicy of taking a margin on our imported spray booths, prep zonesand chassis benches which is market related and not over the top topush prices beyond reach of collision repairers who are improvingtheir operations.

“The full line-up that Hurricane Equipment can now offer is huge,right from AutoRobot Electronic Measuring systems, Wiëlander andSchill inverters from Germany and Blackhawk HD Truck Repair – ouragencies are among the world’s best.

“The operation in Midrand is already a big success for us as wehave always operated previously from the Polokwane region.However the sheer size of the business now demands that we havehad to take on the warehouse in Midrand.

“Stuart Mackie and Hanru are now handling the deliveries anddistribution needs of our clients in a better than ever before manner.Initiatives from Hurricane Equipment on their new line-up ofworkshop tools has seen a complete container sell-out in justweeks,” says Andrew. “We feel the total range and pricing just can’tbe beaten as they all come with a full two-year warranty on purchaseand the quality of these spanners and workshop equipment issuperb.”

You can call them at the new Midrand operation for speedydeliveries on +27 (0)11 314 0167.

BUSINESS UPDATE

hurriCane eQuipMent neW MidrandWarehouse

BluespeC holdinGsneW Venture

The big news that Bluespec have entered into a new jointventure with Auto Magic with a view to listing on theJohannesburg Stock Exchange broke last month. It followson international trends of body shop repair consolidation

being seen internationally. Bluespec are suppliers of comprehensiveinsurance procurement solutions. The company was formed in 2001and has a long history and understanding of the accident repairbusiness. Right from 24-hour emergency towing to powering up alarge operation of some 3000 employees in the accident repair andmanagement business.

They are based across Gauteng and KwaZulu Natal and theRenewit approved and specialise in major structural repairs todamaged vehicles as well as non-structural body cosmetic repair. Thegroup has major business in both manufacture warranty and non-warranty damaged vehicles.

The new joint venture with Auto Magic will give Bluespec a biggerslice of the small area repair business that Auto Magic specialise in.

In dealing with a total market of some 900 000 vehicles involvedannually in repaired accidents, only 30% of these drivers bother totake out an insurance policy and the market is currently split into twotypes of damaged units – drivable and non-drivable accidents.

Auto Magic have a business model that employs around 700

WHAT’S HOT?

MERgERS

people and has production outputs of some 4 000 units repaired permonth. The new partnership is hoped will deliver considerablesynergies between the two groups both to procurement initiativesand technological advancements along with integrated insuranceplatforms as well as service platforms.

This will also answer new methods taken by some insurancecompanies in the motor risk business to outsource procurementplatforms in the repair cycle. It serves to remove friction costs in theactual repair cycle, and most importantly improves levels of customerretention with satisfied clients with severely damaged vehicles nowseeing a 50% level on repairable costs. The shift from hard hits isdown from almost half to just 30% of the overall market in crashrepair.

Auto Magic also operate owner managed franchise operationsand this has assisted their 34 franchise outlets. This, plus another 30approved associate repairers, has driven the group forward. Usingstate-of-the-art IT systems to monitor and check on clients vehicleprogress in repair has also assisted in quality of the end-repaired car.

Auto Magic try to repair their driveable cars in repair returned totheir owners in around 10 days. The new partnership will give bothcompanies a larger footprint on a national basis to complete a visionof a stock market listing in the future.


UTOMOTIVEA

Yes, a full 25 minutes to make a pitch for their business. Seem unlikely?Well on average, a reader will spend 25 minutes with the

Automotive Refinisher Magazine. Just as you are now. As a result, brand loyalty increases by 32% and sales uplift by 8%.

All at a fraction of some other media costs and infinitely more effectivethan email sent straight to the junk folder.

In today’s climate, it’s important to hang on to customers. Because when a competitor comes knocking,

all that really matters is how much your customers like you.

We can make them know you really well.

R E F I N I S H E R

To advetise call us on +27 (0)11 949 4091

Alternatively send us an email to [email protected]

Or visit our website www.autoref.co.za

UTOMOTIVEA

The vo i ce o f the co l l i s ion repair indust ry for over 30 years

Advertise on our websitewww.autoref.co.za

What wouldyou say to a customer whogave you 25 minutesof their time?

What wouldyou say to a customer whogave you 25 minutesof their time?

Yes, a full 25 minutes to make a pitch for their business. Seem unlikely?Well on average, a reader will spend 25 minutes with the

Automotive Refinisher Magazine. Just as you are now. As a result, brand loyalty increases by 32% and sales uplift by 8%.

All at a fraction of some other media costs and infinitely more effectivethan email sent straight to the junk folder.

In today’s climate, it’s important to hang on to customers. Because when a competitor comes knocking,

all that really matters is how much your customers like you.

We can make them know you really well.

AUTOREF AD J-F 2014.e$S_Layout 1 2015/07/13 12:20 PM Page 1

The Paintworx factory shop outletin Boksburg has been assisting thelocal trade with top qualityrefinish paints for over 15 years.

The development of their own paintmanufacturing business was a logical nextstep to keep pace with increasing volumesand is now nearly six years old. Theymanufacture their diversified paint linesunder the Glassgo brand name.

It is based in Angelo Park, Boksburg, in anew facility that is able to keep pace withyear-on-year compound growth of closeto 25%.

Company CEO Ettienne Barnard says“We were just four people when webranched out into our own manufacturingoperation. Right now we have over 50people involved in the paint factory.

“Our single aim has always been to beable to offer a quality car refinish range ata value price and it’s really worked for usright across the automotive and industrialpaints. We make 2K clears, hardeners andbasic toners, primers and now our new 1Kprimer, which is a high build preparation

formulation.”Ettienne went on to say that

distributors as far as Botswana, Zimbabweand Maputo have boosted sales, along witha big demand coming from local areas suchas Gauteng and Mmpumalanga.

“In the current market some of themajor suppliers, in my opinion, have verysteep pricing for the average repairer.’ hesaid. “We are filling that gap with a topquality product at a much more affordableprice range.

Glassgo paints have also invested itsprofits back into updated paintmanufacturing equipment and this isstreamlining our factory output across theboard. Other lines on offer feature a bigselection of epoxy coating and other keyindustrial paint lines.

You can contact Ettienne on082 414 2924 or +27 (0)11 892 5384 toget more information on the Glassgopaints offer. Dealer enquiries are invited.

BUSINESS NEWS

glassgopaintworx

72R E F I NI S H E R

UTOMOTIVEAAUTOMOTIVE

WHAT’S HOT?

The Glassgo refinish range of clear toners and basics come at a value price.

Frontline staff at Paintworx workhard on customer satisfaction levels.

In the lab quality control is everything.Ettienne Barnard has been very active building theGlassgo brand at the new factory site in Boksburg.


MIXPLAST ADS J-F 2014_Layout 1 2014/02/06 10:58 AM Page 2

SOLE DISTRIBUTOR

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Why spend tens of thousands of Rands on expensive dryingarches and suffer ever increasing fuel costs on your existing oven, when the most innovative product in the last 20 years is now available?

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SHERWIN HP AD J-A 2015_Layout 1 2015/07/16 2:16 PM Page 1

To keep pace with internationaldemand for the General brand,Genrock have formulated somenew car refinish products for

vehicle refinishers with their 5000M 2KSuper Fast Clear Coat.

For body shops who specialise in smallarea repairs and fast vehicle turnaround, thishigh build, two-pack, clear coat can deliverexcellence through drying times when eitherair dried, low baked or cured withshortwave infrared paint drying systems. Italso delivers a full gloss wet look finish whenused with a combination of availablehardeners. For express production it works

exceptionally well with H200 hardener,along with the super fast hardener for thebest results on time saving.

The 5000M 2K Clear Coat Satin Gloss isformulated to deliver a satin look. The satingloss is able to provide a uniform silky feelthat meets the stringent demands from therefinish industry once catalysed with any ofthe popular five hardeners. Its pot lifeextends for approximately three to fivehours. Once dried the finish delivers around60% gloss levels which match manycommon plastic hang on body plastic partson numerous car models. It is air dry in just45 minutes or can be easily fast cured by the

use of infrared heating or low baked toexpress the drying cycle.

The Genrock 6000M 2K Clear Coat Mattis another specialist formulation for painterswho wish to match existing factory finisheson matt clear parts. The matt clear finish isfor use over basecoat clearcoat systems. Itcan be cured by any of the automotiveGenrock hardeners and is also either air dryin just 45 minutes or eight minutes withinfrared curing.

For more information on these productsvisit kanyevimba.co.za or call them directlyon +27 (0)11 396 1161.

CoaTingS NEWS

GENROCK ClEAR lINE-UP EXPANDS


WHaT’S HoT?

You are in a car and you know you are about to hit something. If you are the driver, you're likely tohit the brakes and turn the wheel; if you're a passenger, aware of what's about to happen, yourinstinct is to brace yourself for impact. These changes in posture – relaxed or braced – aren'tsomething physical crash test dummies can copy, but Toyota has produced new software for its

THUMS* virtual human modelling that replicates these kinds of pre-collision reactions.The latest version of THUMS adds a muscle modelling feature that can simulate the body attitude of

different vehicle occupants, from relaxed to braced, allowing for more detailed computer analysis of theinjuries collisions can cause.

Until now, THUMS could only simulate changes in posture after a collision has happened, but the newVersion 5 model allows changes prior to an impact to be scrutinised. This means the performance ofseatbelts, airbags and other safety equipment can be studied more accurately, as well as more advanced pre-collision systems. The intelligence gained will help in the development of new safety technologies that canprovide better occupant protection. THUMS Version 5 has already been adopted by dozens of businesses,including vehicle and parts' manufacturers, and is contributing to vehicle safety research worldwide.

About THUMSBy simulating many characteristics of different parts of the human body, from its overall shape to bones

and skin, THUMS enables detailed analysis of the kind of injuries that can occur in a vehicle collision, such asfractures and severed ligaments. Toyota began development of THUMS in 1997, working with ToyotaCentral R&D Labs. Version 1 was launched in 2002, followed by Version 2 in 2004, which added face andbones to the model; Version 4 in 2006, with a precise brain model; and Version 4 in 2010, which gaineddetailed modelling of internal organs.

TOYOTA’S CRASH TEST DUMMIES REPlICATE HUMAN REACTIONS

SaFETY



Specialised Heating Applications (SHA) specialise in infraredcuring systems that deliver great cost savings on industrialprocess curing when viewed against conventional heatingpackages, and that’s the upside.

Man Truck and Bus Group have set up a major manufacturing sitein Telford Road, Pinetown, and their factory manager Heicko Keyseris on a mission – that of pushing the business to become moreenvironmentally friendly.

To this end SHA were asked to help design a new infraredadjustable truck production drying arch unit for the company whowere experiencing paint finishes that were not hard enough to workon once complete in production.

“The answer,” says Tony de Almeida, CEO of Specialised HeatingApplications, “was to organise a huge infrared lamp bank that wouldcompletely cure fresh 2K paint systems on a bespoke suspended

mobile arch. This system uses individual 1kW lamps to be able toachieve a metal temperature of around 60ºC. It only uses a fractionof the cost of a conventional connection heating system.”

The unit is on a rail and track chassis frame and totally cures injust over 30 minutes, which assists to reduce a production bottleneck at the operation.

“What makes a big difference,” says Tony, “is the design of thereflectors, and in this case the radiation energy of the lamps, isharnessed to deliver maximum drying power on every chassis.

“In production the design and industrial installation took aroundthree months to complete. Each section of the chassis can enjoyswitchable lamp back energy reduction to do away with unnecessaryelectrical costs and further reduce production costs.”

For more information on industrial infrared applications you cancall Tony on +27 (0)11 425 4062 or call Franz on 082 463 6284.

INDUSTRY NEWS

speCialisedheatinG sYsteMsMaKe sYsteM ForMan truCKs &Bus

VolVo Will open u.s. asseMBlY plant in 2018

Volvo will spend about $500 million to build its first assemblyplant in the United States as it pursues a global comebackunder Chinese ownership. Volvo is in advanced talks withseveral US states and will announce a location for the

factory later on, CEO Hakan Samuelsson said. The plant will startoperation in 2018 and will produce vehicles built with the sameunderpinnings as the XC90 SUV, Volvo said.

“Volvo Cars cannot claim to be a true global carmaker without anindustrial presence in the US,” Samuelsson said in a statement. “TheUS is an absolutely crucial part of our global transformation and thisannouncement makes it perfectly clear that Volvo is in the US to stay.”

Following its sale to Zhejiang Geely by Ford Motor in 2010, Volvostepped up investment in new models and production, adding a pairof Chinese factories to its two older European plants in Sweden andBelgium. Volvo said the new factory will help meet and eventuallyexceed its volume targets in the US, where it has a medium-termgoal to sell 100 000 light vehicles a year.

Volvo’s global deliveries rose 9% last year to almost 466 000,thanks to strong demand in China and Europe, while its US sales fell8% to 56 366 and last topped the 100 000 mark in 2007, whendeliveries hit 106 213.

“We are going after a market share of 1% with a clear identitythat we know is very attractive to some customer groups,”Samuelsson said. “It is a tough market but I wouldn’t say it’s tougherthan Europe or China.”

Volvo executives have been hinting about a US factory for thepast two years. At the Detroit auto show in January, Samuelsson saidin an interview with Automotive News that “long term, I would notrule that out.” At the Geneva auto show earlier, Samuelsson said hefavoured a site in the US over Mexico. “If labour costs are low, other

WHAT’S HOT?

US NEWS

costs are high,” he said. “Long term it’s always good to produce whereyou sell.”

Premium rivals such as BMW and Audi are adding plants inMexico, where labour costs are cheaper to help them service risingdemand in North America. The choice of the United States overMexico underlines Volvo’s determination to “rebuild the brand”among American consumers, Samuelsson said. “We want to give aclear signal that the US is a home market for us.” He declined toidentify the shortlisted sites but said the decision would reflect theavailability and cost of skilled workers and logistics including theexport of finished cars.

Samuelsson said he was neutral on whether US staff arerepresented by the United Auto Workers union, a politically divisiveissue that has dogged plant decisions by Volkswagen, among others.“It’s up to the people who work for us to choose how they want tobe organised,” he said. “We have no opinion on that.” Volvo said it willuse the US factory to accelerate the introduction of build-to-ordersales, as well as exports.

The new plant is part of an ambitious overhaul at Volvo that willsee the automaker retool its entire product range over the next fouryears with the introduction of new modular vehicle technology.

The first vehicle developed under Volvo’s Chinese owner Geely,the new generation XC90 arrived at European dealerships in Juneand at US showrooms in July. Sales already have started in bothmarkets. Volvo is touting the crossover as the rebirth of the brand.

In four years, the redesigned XC90 will be the oldest vehicle in aVolvo showroom. Volvo executives say seven new vehicles,replacements for the current range and some new variants, will belaunched by 2019. There will also be a plug-in hybrid in all new vehiclelines.



DRIVeN MeRCeDes- BenZ V-CLAss

The V-Class sets new benchmarks in its segment with itsdesign and host of innovations. The new V-Class combinesroom for up to eight people and exemplary functionalitywith high-class appeal, comfort, efficient driving enjoyment

and safety. This makes the Mercedes-Benz stand out among otherMPVs; the perfect vehicle for everyone who appreciates boundlessspace but does not want to sacrifice style and comfort.

Whether travelling with the whole family, heading out for amountain bike holiday with friends or driving prominent guests to ared carpet event – the new V-Class provides optimum flexibilitywhen it comes to use of the luxurious interior.

With the three equipment lines: V-Class standard, V-ClassBlueTeC and V-Class BlueTeC AVAnTGARDe, an exterior sportspackage and an Interior Design package available for each line, anda host of optional extras, the new MPV can be individualised to suitany taste or requirement. As a result it meets a wide variety ofcustomer needs and is just as attractive for families as it is for peoplewho need a variable and spacious interior for their leisure andsports activities. In addition, it is ideally suited to use as a luxuriousVIP transfer or hotel shuttle.

“With the V-Class, under the Mercedes-Benz Vans stable, weoffer a MPV with versatility, comfort and style, all in one eye-catching package. The variable interior and unmatched drivingexperience ensure that its advanced levels of safety and efficiencyare enjoyed by our customers,” says nicolette Lambrechts, vice-president: Mercedes-Benz Vans.

Ground-breaking features in this category of vehicles also include

the AGILITY COnTROL suspension with selective adjustment ofthe damping system to the road conditions and the latestgeneration of ADAPTIVe esP®, featuring many assistance functionsfor optimum driving safety.

The V-Class comes to the starting line with a state-of-the-art2.2-litre four-cylinder turbodiesel engine with two-stageturbocharging, which has already proven highly successful and whichhas now been further enhanced specifically for the MPV. It isavailable in three power output levels: The V 200 CDI develops100 kW of power and a maximum torque of 330 nm. The V 220CDI generates 120 kW of power and 380 nm. This is an increaseof 20nm in each case over the predecessor – but with fuelconsumption down by around two litres. With fuel consumption ofjust 5.7 litres per 100 kilometres and CO2 emissions of 149 gramsper kilometre, the V 220 CDI occupies a leading position in itssegment.

With a power output of 140 kW and powerful peak torque of440 nm, the top-of-the-line V 250 BlueTeC engine is as powerfuland agile as the previous 3-litre V6 turbodiesel engine. In theacceleration phases, an additional 10 kW and 40 nm are available("over-torque"). As a result, the flagship model develops 150 kWand maximum torque of a full 480 nm. The V 250 BlueTeCaccelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in an impressive 9.1 seconds. At thesame time, the top model provides an extremely smooth ride andinterior noise has been reduced significantly – among other things –by means of comprehensive insulation.

AR J-A 2015 JAY_NOV/DEC 2005 paganation 2015/07/16 12:29 PM Page 2

CAR AFTERMARKETTOP REPAIRBRANDS

Enquire about distribution opportunities:

+27 (0)11 024 4978Peter (082) 554 8210Email: [email protected]

We are the sole importersfor the Colad, Dinitrol andIndasa brands.

CAR AFTERMARKETTOP REPAIRBRANDS

We are the sole importersfor the Colad, Dinitrol andIndasa brands.

Pyrmo SAPyrmo SAEnquire about distribution opportunities:

+27 (0)11 024 4978Peter (082) 554 8210Email: [email protected]

PYRMO 3 CIRCLES AD J-A 2015_NOV/DEC 2005 paganation 2015/07/13 12:54 PM Page 1

Pyrmo SA specialise in theimportation and distribution ofhigh quality products for theautomotive and industrial markets

for over 20 years. Automotive RefinisherMagazine took time out to talk to PeterDove the local Pyrmo SA manager, whoalso has the task of brand ambassador forthree key product branches. One of theseis Dinitrol from Germany who have adiversified range. They have 65 years ofexperience and are major suppliers toOEM carmakers on a global basis.

Dinol have 65 years of experience inresearch and development. Theyestablished themselves as the world’sleading supplier of specialised systems forcorrosion prevention. Similarly, Dinol havedeveloped the areas of bonding andsealing and vehicle body product rangesince the early 90’s.

Dinol, GmBH is located at LügdeGermany, with the brand Dinitrol and is aworldwide distributor of coating, bondingand sealing chemicals for the bus, railwayand industrial manufactures and for thecar, bus and railway aftermarket.

Peter says that Pyrmo are in a way,reinventing themselves with a major focuson expanding their operations into the restof Africa going forward.

The big player in refinish terms is thePortuguese brand Indasa of which Pyrmoare the sole importer of the top Europeanabrasive maker.

Established in 1979, Indasa has nowdeveloped into one of Europe’s leadingmanufacturers of high performance coatedabrasive technology. Located in AveiroPortugal, Indasa’s programme ofcontinuous improvement and investmenthas made the manufacturing plant one ofthe most modern production facilities inEurope. Special consideration has beenafforded to the implementation of workingpractices and procedures that minimisethe impact on the environment.

The Indasa Group comprises sevenwholly owned subsidiary companies inSpain, UK, France, Germany, Poland, Braziland the US. Export markets in over 90countries are supplied through a networkof approved distributors and supplypartners.

Fundamental to the company’s corevalues is the ability to provide marketspecific solutions utilising their key areas ofexpertise in the manufacture of innovativeabrasive system. R&D plays a crucial role inthe ongoing development of technicallyadvanced, high performance materials.Only the highest quality raw materials andFepa compliant mineral grain are used,

thus providing consistency of performanceacross the grit range.

The challenge facing today’sprofessional refinishing industry is theimplementation of innovative and highlyefficient methods of vehicle repair andpaint rectification.

Indasa abrasive systems are at theforefront of dry sanding technology,developed specifically to provide all of theessential elements for the optimumsurface preparation and to deliver a rangeof high performance materials that offersconsistency, efficiency and peakproductivity to the refinisher.

Along with these brands is the fullDutch range of consumables from Coladwho are internationally renowned as beinga top player in collision repair for all non-paint accessory products.

Dove went on to say that Pyrmo SAhave enjoyed great success in Gauteng,

Cape Town and KwaZulu Natal repairmarkets but are now busy expanding theirtechnical service for application techniquesin South Africa.

Dingaan Mawaasa handles the Gautengtechnical side. Pyrmo SA are recruitingother technical staff as well to boost theirback-up service on the entire range ofproducts. This also includes the popularAnest Iwata spray gun range which theyalso distribute on a national basis.

Their main objective in the newcompany initiative will be a larger push toindependent paint distribution to get alarger footprint for sales in Africa saysPeter.

you can call him on+27 (0)11 024 4978 or 082 554 8210 forfurther details of what the company has tooffer in the collision repair specialistproducts division.

inDUSTRY NEWS

PYRMO SADISTRIBUTINGGlOBAl BRANDS

WHaT’S HoT?

Peter Dove, manager for Pyrmo SA, is increasing the i r product accep tance throughoutA fr ica w i th independent dist r ibutors play ing a b ig par t of the company focus th is year.

D ingaan Mawaasa, handles technica l ser vice in Gauteng and show ing one o f the manyD in i tro l rust p revention p roducts.




The 18V Lithium Cordless Angle Grinder has a flathead design for easy access and performs up to 8000rpm.It has a 7-position safety guard and an electronic safetyclutch. you can use it with four and a half and five inchwheels.

The motor screen helps keep debris out of the motorIt has an anti-vibration handle and high stall torque. Thebattery rotates 270 degrees.

you can find out more about this product bycontacting their Snap-on dealers or account manager, orby contacting customer service on 0861 762 766, emailing:[email protected] or visit www.snapon.co.za

SNAP-ON

18V LITHIUM CORDLESS ANGLE GRINDER

4CR masking tape is for oven-baked paintingoperations of up to 80°C in car body repair applications.It is available in 18mm – 24mm – 36mm – 48mm x 40mrolls.

For more information on Q-Brands call Val or Geoff+27 (0)11 440 2714 or visit www.qbrandssa.com

Q-BRANDS SA

MASKING TAPE

KAPCI 6050 ANTI-SCRATCH CLEARCOAT is ananti-scratch transparent clearcoat with high solidscontent. It is characterised by high hardness, good UVand weather resistance and high impact resistance.Excellent gloss and very good clarity assures the highquality of the coating. It is compliant with all basecoatsavailable on the market including water based basecoats.

For more information on this and the Kapci range+27 (0)11 834 1252

KAPCI COATINGS

6050 ANTI-SCRATCH

NEW PRODUCTS



This is the Nitromaster, body shop edition and there are a few crucial points to whya panelbeater should get one of these:

l Minimum 20% saving of coating materialsl Huge reduction of oversprayl Application time reduction of minimum 30%l Allows easy “wet on wet” applicationl Haze, streaks, orange peel and sag reduction due to uniform thicknessl Huge reduction in VOCFor more information on this and other products in Kanye Vimba’s extensive range

call them on +27 (0)11 396 1161.

KANYE VIMBA

INTRODUCE NITROMASTER

The newly designed range of air caps from Air Gunsa areable to develop a long and tulip shaped spray pattern withan extra fine particles distribution and very little overspray.This new technology allows even less experienced sprayersto obtain high quality and consistent finishing at budget cost.

Call them on +27 (0)11 463 2169 to find out moreabout their new range of air caps.

Understanding the risk associated with fine particle of aluminum dust is key toensuring a safe work place. Fine particles of aluminum dust are flammable and/orexplosive. Extraction systems for aluminum dust must therefore be designed toprevent any external ignition sources from entering the filter or dust collector. Thestationary extraction systems used up until 2009 (which are “pure” aluminumextractors, manufactured by various manufacturers), do not have this protectionagainst external ignition sources and cannot be modified to include it. All theseextraction systems and the systems available on the market for aluminum are of thetype that require all ignition sources to be eliminated. For this reason, since thepossibility of sparks originating from steel parts cannot be entirely ruled out.

This multi material mobile extraction system has threefold protection against sparksbeing drawn in if steel is being worked on in the vicinity. This protection consists of a5-metre long anti-static intake hose, a spark trap and a 5-metre long settling section.This ensures that, even if steel panels are inadvertently sanded or ground, the glowingsparks are cooled well below the temperature required to ignite aluminum dust. Thesystem is TÜV-certified for steel sparks, which are much hotter and glow for longerthan aluminum.

Aer-o-cure is the exclusively appointed importer and distributor for the onlyapproved system on the market, offering a 2-year warranty and full after sales support.For any enquiries, please contact us on +27 (0)11 444 6454 or [email protected]

ANEST IWATA

NEW CONCEPT AIR TECHNOLOGY

AER-O-CURE

MULTI MATERIAL VACUUM SYSTEM


Chief’s New Dust Extractor is a vacuum assisted sanding kit system with an immersionseparator designed specifically for the automotive repair industry. It features a fully integratedautomatic on/off switch which allows the electrically operated vacuum cleaner to be controlledby a pneumatic hand tool. It is CSA certified and features a HEPA filter – included with anefficiency of 99.995% on 0.3 micron. It also has a detachable oil/water tank for easy emptying ofrecovered materials. Note: Please allow for 14 weeks delivery after order.

“y.E.S. – your Equipment Supplier” is the sole distributor for Chief Automotive Technologiesin South Africa. For further information on their products contact either Tommy du Plessis on073 163 0882, Darrel van der Kolff on 083 926 7101 or Alex van Haute on 079 536 4574 oralternatively email [email protected].

CHIEF’S NEW DUST EXTRACTOR

MAKING REPAIR LESS EXPLOSIVE


1K fine filler is ideal for finishing of small uneven surfaces. Apply twoto three light coats allowing 30 minutes for thorough drying andsubsequently sand with fine sandpaper P600-P1000. It can beovercoated with all type of primers or paints.

Call Suleman on +27 (0)31 902 7666 or visitwww.automotivepaint.co.za for more information on this and otherproducts on offer.

AUTOMOTIVE PAINTS

1K FINE FILLER

Sherwin-Williams® HP Process™ Clearcoat HPC15 with AIR-BAKE™Technology is an extremely productive clearcoat designed for a range ofspeed applications from single to multi-panel repairs. As one of the premiumclearcoat offerings from Sherwin-Williams Automotive Finishes. HPProcess™ Clearcoat HPC15 offers outstanding application properties, gloss,appearance, and buffability. HP Process™ Clearcoat HPC15 offers anextremely fast cycle time for increased productivity and does not require theuse of a high temperature bake cycle, which generates substantial energysavings.

For more information call Kanye Vimba on +27 (0)11 396 1161.

SHERWIN-WILLIAMS®

HP PROCESSTM CLEARCOAT HPC15

NEW PRODUCTS

The T-Hotbox is a handheld unit and due to its size it can beeasily used. The unit has several settings that can be adjusteddepending on its application. For one, the time of its use can bepreset, meaning if you want to heat for example 1 sec then you canpreset this time and it will stop working after the set time.

The range for the time setting is 0.5 sec., 1 sec., 1.5 sec., 2 sec., 3sec., 4 sec.. This can be helpfull in the dent removal application toavoid burning the paint. Next to that the power level can be set at20%, 40%, 60%, 80% and 100%. The unit comes in a small case tomake its storage simple. There is an extra long cable to make theunit easier for its hand application.

Call Celette SA on +27 (0)11 334 1875 for more information.

CELETTE SA

T-HOTBOX



Protecting your workers from occupational hazards is more than justgood business practice or housekeeping. Welders, for example, who are indaily contact with workplace operational hazards, must be protected fromexposure to contaminants, such as weld-fume particulate, that can lead toserious health concerns and illnesses.

Through efficient removal of weld fume particulate, you can protect yourworker’s health, improve productivity and reduce lost time due to illness.The most effective method of capturing weld fume particles from a weldersbreathing zone is to collect it directly at the source.

The all new Chief Fume Extractor is purposely built for the automotiverepair industry. It’s compact design, vertical reach and ease of use makes itperfect for today’s body shops. “y.E.S. – your Equipment Supplier” is thesole distributor for Chief Automotive Technologies in South Africa. Note:Please allow for 14 weeks delivery after order.

For further information on their products contact either Tommy duPlessis on 073 163 0882, Darrel van der Kolff on 083 926 7101 or Alex vanHaute on 079 536 4574 or alternatively email [email protected].

NEW CHIEF FUME EXTRACTOR

PROTECTS AGAINST WELDING FUMES

Roberlo Silver Light: Lightweight body filler is intended for those repairswhere the product's filling capacity is very important. It is the ideal productfor those users who start the sanding process using P40 due to its excellentadherence and strength but, at the same time, sanding can be started withfiner grains.

It is recommended for those users that require a product that they canwork with at length and can be contoured, if necessary. This makes SilverLight a very versatile product.

Roberlo isolcar: A 1K primer for fast drying process. HPC15 - HPProcess™ Clearcoat With AIR-BAKE™ Technology

For more information on Q-Brands call Val or Geoff +27 (0)11 440 2714or visit www.qbrandssa.com

ROBERLO’S

NEW INTRODUCTIONS

New improved car seat kits - set cover floormatt and steering covers. For extra cover mirrorwrap can be added for the handbrake and gearlever.

l Snuggling seat coverl 25 Micron strong to remain on seat

throughout the duration of the job at hand andeven go round for second and third use.

For more information call +27 (0)83 251 9442or office +27 (0)11 616 2870 or email them [email protected] for more information.

VIRGIN PLASTICS

SEAT COVERS


loCal NEWS


GASKET CLEANER

tel: +27 (0)860 772 652 l email: [email protected] l www.spanjaard.biz

Special Lubricants and Allied Chemical Products

Cuts through grease and grime and eliminates theneed for excessive sanding or scraping.

In the beginning of 2014 NFapprentices had a small group of eightapprentices on the programme andfour partner shops. Fast forward to

2015, by the end of July this year NFApprentices will have placed 50apprentices at their 16 partner repaircentres.

The programme’s founding mandatewas to ensure apprentice successconsidering the low output rates ofapprenticeships. This has taken NFApprentices on a journey that has requiredthe foundation to develop a unique modelwith the apprentice at the centre.

The programme has been able toachieve success through its holisticapproach that focuses on three key areas,namely: recruitment, orientation andapprentice management.

Identifying well-motivated candidateswith a fair level of knowledge will ensurethat the right apprentices are placed fromthe onset. Making sure that all the involvedparties are orientated on how to bestmanage the apprenticeship programme,starting with the apprentice, to the mentorand the workshop manager is alsoparamount.

Part of this orientation for shops willmean that they need to be a little patientwith first time apprentices understandingthat they still need to learn some of theworkplace basics. Once an apprenticecandidate has successfully completed theirtrial (probation) period, they need tounderstand how to actively participate inmanaging their training programme withassistance from NF Apprentices.

What also makes NF Apprenticesunique is its inclusive approach that allowsany qualifying business to participate andaccess its support structures. Throughpartnering with NF, businesses are already

starting to see the benefits of havingapprentices through the positivecontribution apprentices make towardsproductivity and identifying a talent poolfrom which to source future employees.

The programme has also managed toestablish an apprentice fraternity throughtheir social and life skills programmes. Asapprenticeships are usually done in smallgroups in an operational setting, rarely areapprentices given outlet to express theirviews and interact socially with each other.Through NF’s social programmes,apprentices are able to engage with oneanother, offering each other peer supportand guidance.

Apprenticeships offer a solution to themany socio- and economic issues facingSouth Africa such as youth unemploymentand skills shortage discrepancies. Industrycollaborations can go a long way inidentifying workable solutions and for thisreason NF Apprentices have establishedworking partnerships with industrystakeholders such as CRA (CollisionRepairers Association), BASF, Sci-Bonoand Gondolier.

“Project Lungisa” – Fixing itThe NF Apprentices’ beneficiaries are

showing us that anyone can make adifference with their very own initiative.“Project Lungisa” involves the refurbishingof a salvage car that was sponsored byHollard Insurance. BASF has also come onboard as a paint and paint materialsponsor.

Led by third and fourth levelapprentices, the project will give the youngmen and women an opportunity topromote and showcase the skills they haveacquired. Funds raised will then bechannelled back into NF Apprentices sothat more young people can receive thesame opportunity they have. In essence anopportunity for NF’s own young people inthe industry to give back.

How you can you get involved? Partssponsorships and funds for purchasingparts will be greatly appreciated as well asany time or expertise on offer.

For more info contact us on+27 (0)11 312 8479, email: [email protected] visit www.nf.org.za

Nf APPRENTICES UPDATE

TRaining


WHaT’S HoT? JOBS, EQUIPMENT, SERVICES AND MUCH MORE

85

DENT PRO-PORTABLE DENT PULLER

Call us on

076 142 7263082 452 6631

www.panelprotech.co.za


Teknikloth®- high-tech lint free surface cleaners are an

absolute must for all paint shops. They provide less wastage

and linting than other systems of preparation. Suitable for

use on both water based and solvent based systems.

Unique properties include:n Lint Free n Strong wet strengthn No scratched or damaged paintwork n Excellent absorptionn Does not break up in any known solvent

We have been supplying the industry for the past 18 years.

NEW DISTRIBUTORS WELCOME.

Call 031 579 3688 for your nearest distributor.Email: [email protected] or [email protected]

Photo supplied by Primo Panel and Paint Pinetown

TEKNIKLOTH®

A Tekniklean Product

WIPES AWAY SURFACE CONTAMINATION

TEKNIKLOTH®

A Tekniklean Product

WIPES AWAY SURFACE CONTAMINATION



In a way “Fat” Mary Nkosi was good at her job. As a trade showsecurity officer she made sure no one ever got into the expo oneminute early. On the downside that made the oriental standholder’s invasion of exhibitors a bit mad as they would arrive

early by the bus load all dressed in black suits and juggling their veryown packed lunches – probably supplied by their ambitiouscommunist government to keep them alert to commercial gainopportunities at all times.

“Fat” Mary would have them all lined up and quietly whisperingwith dissent at not being able to get out of the crisp winter morningsun until she could look at her watch and declare the show open. Shewould also get her knickers in a twist if one of the stand holderswanted to take out any product without the right paper work fromthe organiser’s office at the exit door.

This all resulted in “Fat” Mary sliding down the popularity stakeswith Wang, Wang and Poo – yes that was the company name – fortheir stand was right next to the door. Their product line-up of brakeshoes, clutch plates and shining mag wheels fell into place withanother 300 motor part making hopefuls from across the other sideof the world in China.

Anyway, Frikkie, “Fat” Mary’s security controller had laid down thelaw concerning these demanding oriental visitors who often did notunderstand her way of speaking English with a Zulu accent, but finallyunderstood her clenched fist and flared nostrils and the word ‘no’when her anger was up.

Things were progressing very well on the final day with “Fat” Maryin position and enduring a phenomenal amount of nonsense fromthe Chinese contingent, who always wanted the hall rear dooropened to nip out to phone and smoke like mad.

Wang, whose work experience had seen him spend a fair amountof time in jail back home, was dreaming up a scheme to advance theirglobal operating success by knocking off a number of samples of

product from a well known American competitor’s product rangewhich was visible from their stand. His plan was a simple one. Hewould run up to their stand and remove the all new laptop and doa runner as the show closed and escape to a waiting bus.

However, another stand holder saw this adventurous little tykeand his shenanigans as Wang pocketed their laptop full of companysecrets under his jacket. Fired up with a bucket load of testosteronehe swiftly dashed off in chase of the light fingered lad.

With cries of “Stop thief!” coming from some distance far away,“Fat” Mary swung into action by throwing Wang to the ground andsitting on him as he shouted, grunting and groaning on the ground.“Fat” Mary rode him like a practiced rodeo champ as the theft wasunveiled. Frikkie, and his huge muscles, appeared next to them andsnatched up Wang holding him up by the neck and giving him a firmtug downwards on the nuts. He quickly stopped the screaming andshouting which had been going on for sometime.

Everyone waited for the cops to arrive and the Chinesecontingent, who were standing shoulder to shoulder, waiting to leavelooked on quizzically at the unfolding events. Wang was a totaldisgrace to his nation especially after being caught in the act. He waslast seen spotted entering the cop’s open doors of the prison van toenjoy an evening in Booysens holding cells where he truly belonged.

For “Fat” Mary there were no whoopee cheerios from the expovisitors as she congratulated herself on a job well done. TheAmerican company were thrilled to bits at being able to keep theirlaptop packed with company intel. To end it all after things wentquiet, “Fat” Mary and Frikkie congratulated themselves and went offmuttering about nabbing the thief as “Fat” Mary’s weight had comein handy in the ordeal.

As for Wang and his dash for success, he got a short custodialsentence in jail, which is about the same as being in hell for anyforeigner.

AFRICAN PANORAMA STEALING SUCCESS by Ian Groat


396 1161

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automotive refinisher july-august 2015

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