FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

EXPERT ANSWERS TO YOUR MOST COMMON QUESTIONS

Performax International has been in the conversion industry for over 30 years and with that comes a lot of knowledge. We have tried to make the decision buying process a little bit easier for you by listing the answers to some of our frequently asked questions by clients. If there is a question you would like further information on or don't see the answer you need here please call our friendly sales team on 1800 737 367 they will happily assist. 

 

Our Most Asked Question: "I want a vehicle what is the process involved in getting it?"

Answer: "This is a question contains a lot of variables that consistently change. We reccomend calling Performax directly on 1800 737 367 and our specialist team can personally help you in obtaining your new vehicle."


VEHICLE PRICING AND WARRANTY

WHY ARE YOUR VEHICLES SO EXPENSIVE, I CAN BUY ONE CHEAPER THAN THAT IN AMERICA?

This is a common question. US pricing does not include their taxes, by the time you add all the options that Australians expect as a minimum standard, add freight within the US to get the docks, shipping, unloading and customs in Australia, exchange rates, Australian taxes you are almost double the US Price. And we haven’t touched the vehicle yet. Australia has the toughest design rules in the World, to meet these standards we have to engineer the vehicles to certain levels, we have full-time engineers on staff, and there is often hundreds of thousands of dollars spent setting up to do a new model, we have to carry all warranty in Australia, we carry an extensive supply of parts, have fully trained technicians, and much more to support these vehicles here. To fully appreciate what is involved, a factory tour is highly recommended.

DO PERFORMAX VEHICLES COME WITH WARRANTY

Yes. Performax vehicles are accompanied by a 3-year comprehensive warranty, offering unlimited kilometres of coverage coving parts up to the total value of the vehicle. Additionally, extended 5-year unlimited kilometre warranty is available subject to an associated cost.

WHY ARE OTHER COMPANIES SELLING THEIR TRUCKS CHEAPER THAN YOU?

Some companies like to do their engineering and conversion work overseas in places such as China, Sri Lanka and Thailand, which enables them to sell at a lower price in Australia. Performax International is based in Australia as are our staff and our research and development centre. Not only does it give you peace of mind knowing you are supporting an Australian company, you know if something goes wrong, the experts are here where you can access them. In contrast, sending a faulty vehicle back overseas could be a costly and inconvenient process. Furthermore, some companies may offer cheaper prices by cutting corners, such as neglecting to convert certain components such as wiper mechanisms, shifters, power windows controls, headlights/taillights, air conditioning components and other vehicle electronics. There is also other corners they can cut by using cross shaft brakes/not relocating the brake booster, using chain steering and the list goes on. Be assured when choosing a Peformax converted vehicle you are getting the top tier quality and a “proper mirror conversion”.


VEHICLE CONVERSION AND QUALITY

DON'T THESE VEHICLES ALREADY COME OUT RIGHT HAND DRIVE?

Although you might assume that the RAM, Silverado, and Ford F150 featured in television advertisements are not converted, they are indeed converted in Victoria. Some of the language they use to hide this may be used such as "remanufactured not converted". At Performax, we believe in transparency "calling apples apples" and honesty, accurately representing our conversion process without any disguise. Our conversions match and surpass OEM standards, particularly in areas such as precise fitting. Unfortunately, certain commercialized companies, lacking specialization in conversions for over a decade, received substantial financial support through government grants. In contrast, Performax, driven solely by our passion for conversions, did not benefit from such assistance due to logistical factors and influence from larger commercialized entities. Performax has been in the conversion industry for over 30 years so be assured we are a long-term player and are here to stay. This could potentially be a problem with the commercialised companies if you need converted replacement parts or knowledge on the processes.

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN OTHER COMPANIES AND PERFORMAX VEHICLES?

Other companies in the region that re-engineer left-hand drive vehicles aspire to attain similar benchmarks in terms of quality of finish, mechanical excellence and reliability, and throughout the global automotive industry, Performax is acknowledged as a frontrunner and innovator in the field. The company's commitment to delivering original equipment manufacturer (OEM) comparable right-hand-drive vehicles of unmatched quality is renowned globally and known as "The Performax Difference".

I WANT A VEHICLE, WHAT IS THE PROCESS INVOLVED IN GETTING IT?

This is a question contains a lot of variables that consistently change. Your best option is to call Performax directly on 1800 737 367 they can then personally help you in obtaining your new vehicle.


IMPORTING AND LICENSING

I WANT TO IMPORT MY OWN CAR, CAN YOU HELP ME?

Performax International holds several different licenses, some of which allow a customer to import their own vehicle for conversion. There are several rules that govern the private import of a vehicle, and it is essential you talk to someone that is qualified to advise you on what must be done. Not seeking expert help can result in very costly fines and holding fees from customs, and possible destruction of the vehicle.

CAN I DRIVE MY TRUCK ON A CAR LICENSE?

This can vary depending on the state the vehicle is to be registered in, and the category of vehicle you are buying. Please ask our sales team to help you with the appropriate information here.


VEHICLE CAPACITY AND TOWING

HOW MUCH CAN I CARRY?

We can sell you a truck with carrying capacities over 2 tonnes BUT; This question is dependent on a lot of factors, one being whether or not you wish to drive the truck on a car license. As with all vehicles, the payload is affected by what accessories you fit, like a bull bar, long-range tank, extra batteries etc. Another factor is the Gross Combined Mass, what the total loaded weight is of the truck and any trailer combined. Our trained salespeople can help you work all this out so that you remain legal when towing or loading your truck.

WHAT CAN I TOW?

Very few people understand the laws when it comes to towing. All Performax trucks can tow the legal limit of 3500kg on a 50mm ball. Most Performax vehicles can tow in excess of 4500kg; however, there are braking and trailering laws that must be obeyed once you exceed 3500kg. This is an area that you should only trust to an expert like a professional Performax trained salesperson. We need to ensure that the vehicle you are looking at is up to the job, and that you are driving on the correct licence.

WILL I NEED A BRAKE CONTROLLER TO TOW MY TRAILER?

Performax trucks usually come with a standard electric brake controller unit built in. However, we cannot guarantee that this system will be compatible with your trailer as there are many different brands and operating systems sold. It is the buyer's responsibility to ensure the system works with their trailer, and if not fit the appropriate system. Some trailers also use electric over hydraulic, typically boat trailers and off-road caravans, these may not work and may require an additional unit to be fitted at the buyers expense. Australian Federal Law also requires any trailer rated over 4500kg to me fitted with an ADR Approved air brake system, and the tow unit requires an approved system too. This system will not work with electric brakes.

YOU MUST NEED A FUEL TANKER TO FOLLOW YOU AROUND WITH THOSE BIG TRUCKS, WHAT IS THEIR FUEL ECONOMY LIKE?

Although there are no standards for fuel economy on vehicles in this category, we do have plenty of feedback from customers and from our own experiences. Due to the high torque levels of the Performax Trucks, modern 10 speed transmissions, and the fact they are purpose-built to tow, they are capable of outstanding fuel economy especially when towing heavy loads. And in fact, can embarrass most common brands of 4x4s and still manage to maintain safe highway speeds all day.

HOW CAN I DETERMINE THE RATING OR CAPACITY OF MY VEHICLE?

If your vehicle has a tow rating this can be found in the handbook under the towing section. The vehicle tow rating will include a trailer weight capacity and a trailer ball weight capacity.

WHEN DO I NEED TO INSTALL AIR BRAKES?

An air brake kit will need to be installed on your truck to operate the airbrakes on your trailer/caravan/fifth-wheel/gooseneck when the trailer exceeds 4.5 tonne.

HOW CAN I CHECK MY BALL WEIGHT?

Ball weight refers to the weight on the front end of the trailer not carried over the axles. As a rule you should aim to have 10 percent of the total trailer weight as ball weight. This can be measured at a weigh bridge by resting the jockey wheel only on the scale.

WHAT TOWBALL SHOULD I USE?

The Australian Standard AS4177-2 recommends that 50mm tow balls with a rating of 3500kg be used for towing trailers up to 3.5 tonne. The capacity should be stamped on the ball plus the manufacturer's identification and a '50' to indicate the tow ball diameter in millimetres.

WHEN SHOULD A BRAKE CONTROL UNIT BE FITTED?

All trailers with an aggregate trailer mass (including the load) over 750kg must be fitted with brakes to comply with national road regulations. Any trailer with electric brakes needs a brake controller to activate the operation of the brakes. The brake controller sets the timing and level of power output to the trailer brakes when activated by pressing the brake pedal in the vehicle.

WHAT ARE THE REGULATIONS RELATING TO TOWING IN DIFFERENT STATES OF AUSTRALIA?

A set of national towing regulations are now in place governing towing in Australia for trailers up to 3500Kg aggregate of loaded trailer mass. In short the loaded trailer must not exceed the recommended towing capacity of the vehicle.


VEHICLE SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE

WHAT ARE THE SERVICE INTERVALS?

Performax vehicles delivered after 1/7/2020 must be serviced as recommended in the owner’s manual. Vehicles delivered prior to 1/7/2020 need to be serviced every 6 months or 10,000km, whichever comes first. Refer to the service section on our website to see what needs to be done on your particular service on vehicles delivered prior to 1/7/2020.

WHERE DO I GET MY CAR SERVICED WHEN I AM TRAVELLING?

Performax International has a dealer network right around Australia, so you can plan your travels knowing you can get a service when needed by trained professional technicians. In the event you are not travelling or working in an area where we do not have a dealer, we do also have approved repair centres; just call our friendly service staff to find out who is approved in your area.

WHAT HAPPENS IF MY CAR BREAKS DOWN IN THE MIDDLE OF NOWHERE?

All Performax new vehicles come with 3-year Roadside Service Coverage that can help you with breakdowns, towing, emergency accommodation, car hire and more. Please see your Roadside policy for full conditions and details. Please be aware that due to the size and weight of your set-up, vehicle recovery may not always be possible. Performax strongly recommends extending your Roadside Coverage when travelling to cover you and your vehicle in the likelihood of an emergency.

CAN I SERVICE MY OWN CAR?

Performax International and its approved Dealers and repair centres are all trained professionals who know how to work on your new truck. We would prefer that you entrust your vehicle to these professionals- as the warranty may become void.


VEHICLE PARTS AND ACCESSORIES

ARE PARTS AVAILABLE?

Yes, like any other car manufacturer in this country, we carry normal consumable parts required for servicing and maintenance of your vehicle. Any part that is not commonly requested can be air freighted in just as fast as most parts can be sent around Australia.

CAN I GET ACCESSORIES FOR MY TRUCK?

Yes! Almost all accessories commonly fitted to other 4x4s can also be supplied and fitted to a Performax vehicle. Whether it be a bull bar with driving lights, road armour, a canopy or long-range tank, we have you covered. Contact our Parts Team to discuss your requirements.

WHAT IS ADBLUE? CAN I REMOVE IT?

AdBlue or Urea is a new emissions additive commonly found in modern diesel vehicles to help them meet stringent international environmental regulations. It also helps the vehicle to operate more efficiently. This fluid is vital to the operation of your vehicle and it cannot be removed or your vehicle will not only fail to operate reliably, it will also void your warranty. Removal of any emissions system is also a Federal Offence and carries with it very high penalties. AdBlue normally only requires filling when it is low, at which point the vehicle will give a 1000km warning allowing plenty of time to refill. This product does have a shelf life so is best to let run down as required. A typical truck can run for 5000 to 10,000kms on a tank, depending on operating conditions.

DOES PERFORMAX FIT ACCESSORIES?

Yes we do, we recommend getting your accessories fitted at Performax.

WHY IS IT RECOMMENDED PERFORMAX FIT MY ACCESSORIES?

We recommend it due to many factors. Technology in new vehicles (CAN Bus electronic systems) if wired incorrectly it can affect the modules (computers) and make them fail or disabling functions in your vehicle as well as potential parasitic draws if not wired correctly draining your battery when the car is off. Furthermore, being converted vehicles certain American accessories may need to be modified such as electronic side steps working opposite sides as well as lift kits not fitting or working correctly due to the modified steering setup for right hand drive. Also there may be accessories you want fitted such as aftermarket fuel tanks that may need a mod plate which our team at Performax can supply. All Performax fitted accessories come with a part and fitment warranty. It is recommended to contact Performax before purchasing accessories to see if they will be compliant and will fit your vehicle. To see a range of accessories we offer please visit our online shop, if there is something we do not have online please give us a call and we can see what we can do regarding your enquiry.

INSURANCE AND COMPLIANCE


WHO WILL INSURE THESE THINGS?

A lot of insurance companies will insure them, however, due to their value and intended uses, your rating with those companies may be taken into account. Performax International recommends specialist insurers like RYNO Insurance.

I NEED A FIVE STAR ANCAP RATING FOR MINE SITES, DO YOUR VEHICLES COMPLY?

Five Star ANCAP ratings only apply to vehicles with a GVM of less than 3500kgs, there is no valid testing for trucks over 4500kgs so there for no rating possible. These vehicles do not require an ANCAP rating to be allowed onto any mine sites in Australia, however depending on the mine sites, they may still require some sort of approved ROPS. We recommend you check with the individual site that you plan on operating in.

PERFORMAX INTERNATIONAL CONVERSIONS

Call us today and discuss your dream conversion

Call us today 1800 737 367