AAAA Most Innovative New Aftermarket Product – 4WD

The competition for the AAAA Most Innovative New Aftermarket Product – 4WD award was exceptionally close with nine entries in total from AAAA members. In this issue, we take a look at the entrants who vied for this award including the winning SuperPro Upgraded Front Steering Knuckle Kit from Zeder Corporation.

Zeder Corporation, SuperPro Upgraded Front Steering Knuckle Kit – WINNER
This Steering Knuckle upgrade confronts the root cause of bump steer and tyre wear head-on. Engineered with precision, using hot forged 4140 AISI steel, it not only meets but exceeds OE design standards. By drastically reducing bump steer and improving tyre longevity, it enhances vehicle performance and also driver safety and comfort, while delivering benefits such as reduced driver fatigue and improved vehicle dynamics. Zeder says it was the first to market with a legal and permanent solution, which is engineered to completely resolve the bump steer issue without adverse effects. Further, the SuperPro solution is designed for simplicity and compliance, does not require any welding, engineering modifications, or mod plating, maintains the vehicle’s warranty and legal standing, is VSB 14 approved and ADR compliant.
For more information, visit www.zedercorp.com

Bendix, Drum to Disc Conversion with Electric Park Brake for Toyota Hilux N80 Series
Bendix says its Drum to Disc Conversion with EPB stands out for its unique integration of disc brake efficiency with the advanced technology of an electric park brake, including direct rotor engagement and user-friendly dashboard control switch. It says this not only modernises the Toyota Hilux’s braking system, but also introduces an added layer of safety “previously unavailable in the four-wheel drive aftermarket sector.” Bendix says the kit is cost effective and includes everything required for the conversion, ensuring seamless installation for workshops and less downtime for fleet managers. Bendix says this system redefines safety standards for the Toyota Hilux N80 series, offering unmatched braking control and stability across various conditions. The system is compatible with current Eighth Generation (N80) Toyota Hilux models (05/2015 – onwards).
For more information, visit www.bendix.com.au

Blackhawk, Ultimate Upper Control Arms
The Blackhawk Ultimate Upper Control Arms feature a patented double-locking mechanism, a global first in its category, and also offers a novel approach to on-car adjustability. By leveraging principles of mechanical engineering and material science, Blackhawk says its engineers have developed a solution that not only meets regulatory requirements but also enhances the user experience and performance. The integration of advanced surface hardening techniques, such as quench polish quench nitriding, demonstrates a commitment to innovation in materials engineering. Blackhawk says this approach not only enhances component longevity but also ensures consistent performance under demanding conditions. By embracing cutting-edge technologies and methodologies, Blackhawk states its engineers have elevated the Blackhawk Ultimate UCA to a pinnacle of innovation in the automotive aftermarket industry.
To learn more, visit www.blackhawk4x4.com

Brown & Watson International, Narva Ultima Connect+ Controller
The Connect+ Controller unlocks the Ultima forward lighting system to provide full user control over beam shape and output intensity from a single unit. Users can dim their Ultima Light Bar system, or completely turn it off and on, as required. Customisable driving modes allow users to adjust beam shape and output on-the-go for optimal visibility. Highway Mode maximises distance while reducing width to minimise road sign flare. Dirt Road Mode ramps up all components for peak performance, while 4WD Track Mode balances distance and spread. Boost mode instantly enhances output by 15 percent for 30 seconds. Compatible with Ultima MK3 Driving Lights, Ultima eight-inch and 24-inch LED Light Bars, the Ultima Connect+ Controller enables precise control, while the use of LINbus coupled with proprietary algorithms, ensures seamless installation, user-friendly operation, and scalability.
For more information, visit www.narva.com.au

Don Kyatt Spare Parts, Terrain Tamer Sealed Alternator Assembly
The Alternator on Toyota Landcruiser VDJ76, 78 and 79 models are mounted quite low on the engine, exposing the sensitive electrical units to mud, slush, grit and grime. In partnership with a Tasmanian mine customer, Terrain Tamer developed the Design Protected Terrain Tamer Sealed Alternator Assembly which utilises a fairly simple design to see clean, fresh air drawn in by an upper air filter, and delivered to an encased alternator unit via two hoses, one to the front fan, and one to the rear. This fresh air is then pushed out and travels up a third hose, into the vehicle’s air box, through the air filter and eventually into the engine, a process which not only protects the alternator, but also provides a 10 degree decrease in operating temperature.
For more information, visit www.terraintamer.com.au

Federal Batteries, REMCO 150Ah Lithium XTRA Slimline Battery
The REMCO 150Ah Lithium XTRA Slimline Battery submitted as part of the AAAA Most Innovative New Aftermarket Product – 4WD award featured an inbuilt 40A DC to DC charger with SmartSense technology. This model has now been superseded by a 220Ah version. Featuring ignition sensing instead of voltage sensing relay to automatically signal a charging connection, the battery detects when your vehicle is turned on and when the vehicle is turned off to avoid excess voltage drain of the primary battery. The SmartSense technology is also compatible with modern vehicle smart alternators, signaling to the alternator when charging is required, so you arrive at your destination with a fully charged battery. Charging and installation is achieved by simply plugging the battery directly into a DC input without the need for costly external chargers and is optimised to work straight out of the box.
For more information, visit www.remcoenergy.com.au

Pedders Suspension and Brakes, Parabolic Leaf Springs
Pedders says its parabolic leaf springs introduce advanced electronic technology to the aftermarket segment, enhancing precision and reliability compared to traditional design leaf springs. Further, it says the innovation brings additional safety features and provides enhanced control and performance, allowing drivers to ride more comfortably when dealing with varying loads or uneven surfaces, contributing to improved handling and overall driving experience. Pedders says its range of parabolic leaf springs stands out in the auto aftermarket industry by combining advanced technology, safety features, ease of installation, and a seamless integration with OEM standards, providing ute owners with an innovative and upgraded driving experience, while adhering to industry standards and regulations to ensure it meets safety and quality benchmarks.
For more information, visit www.pedders.com.au

REDARC, Smart Battery Monitor
REDARC says its Smart Battery Monitor is a rugged, connected and smart measurement device for secondary battery monitoring. It explains this high-quality shunt allows for the most accurate secondary battery current measurement on the market. The in-built circuitry takes current, voltage and temperature measurements, using these measurements to determine Stage of Charge of the connected secondary battery through coulomb counting. From there, it can determine the SoC at any point in time. REDARC says its Smart Battery Monitors’ current measurements are up to five times more accurate than the leading competitor. The Smart Battery Monitor uses its Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) transceiver to transfer the SoC data, along with instantaneous Current, Voltage and Temperature figures, to the RedVision App.
For more information, visit redarcelectronics.com/au/smart-monitor

Ryco Filters, RCC360 Catch Can
The RCC360 Catch Can allows harmful engine gases to flow through to a specially designed filter, reducing the effect these harmful pollutants have on engine life, while giving customers convenience and peace of mind through the service indicator. This filter traps contaminants, such as fine oil droplets, and coalesces them into larger droplets that can then fall into the storage sump for safe disposal. The safely filtered gas can pass to the engine air intake without harming the engine or the environment. Where the RCC360 is unique is how it manages gas flow when the filter becomes blocked. The unit has in-built bypass channels which allow gas to flow around the filter whilst activating a service indicator, alerting the driver so they are aware that the filter requires maintenance.
For more information, visit www.rycofilters.com

For more on the awards, visit www.aftermarketawards.com.au