Summer promotion
Alignment from Hofmann
Published: 12 June, 2014
Highlights of Hofmann's Spring/Summer promotion includes its wireless 3D Geoliner 790 which is offered at more than £6,000 off the list price. HD cameras automatically track the alignment targets for fast and accurate readings at any lift height. Several thousands of pounds can be saved when purchasing Class IV automated test lane pit packages. The VOSA-approved ATL bays are fully project managed and include a two-year parts and labour warranty. The Fusion II tyre changer and wheel balancer twin pack are also available at a reduced price. The HOFMANN Spring/Summer promotion runs until 31st August 2014, or while stocks last.
- Flexible alignment
A mobile alignment product has been produced by Absolute Alignment, specialists in providing Rav 4 wheel alignment equipment. The Rav TD1760 WS Bluetooth wheel aligner runs on domestic power or a small generator. It has Bluetooth alignment heads and wheel clamps which fit most vehicles, turnplates and adjustable wheel stands - ideal for mobile mechanics and motorsport teams. Technical sales director Chris Dear says the advantage of this product is that it doesn't require a dedicated area to work in, "We've had our units in use in home garages and even outdoor driveways. As long as the area is reasonably flat the wheel stands can compensate for the basics, leaving the clever Rav software to do the rest."
- A longer platform
Globaljig has introduced a Rotax chassis repair and measuring system with a six-metre platform to accommodate larger vehicles with longer wheelbases, high-sided bodies, tail-lifts or wheelchair lifts. As well as a longer platform, the new system has a five-tonne capacity scissor lift. Pulling towers are on a continuous rail around the Globaljig Rotax, delivering ten tonnes of pulling power from almost any angle. The mono-cube design ensures that almost any vehicle can be mounted upon it. A repair accuracy within plus or minus one millimetre of the OE recommendations can be achieved, according to Tri-Sphere.
- Touchless system breaks the mould
The team over at Bosch are rather excited about their brand new FWA 9000 wheel aligner, which provides touchless wheel alignment faster than conventional equipment. The system has been through a period of testing prior to release at a Bradford garage who has found that nine out of ten cars given a quick check in under 30 seconds were in need of alignment and 75% of these customers agreed to having the alignment work done - meaning a return on investment is achievable in under 18 months. The equipment assesses four wheels simultaneously, providing quick values for camber and tow and there's no set-up time as there's no tyre clamps to deal with. This also means there's no chance of damaging wheel rims. The Touchless system bases its assessment on the position of the tyre and the chassis, recognising the movement of a vehicle as it approaches the unit's turntable pads, starting the initial measurement automatically. Thousands of reference points, generated by laser, are projected on the side of the vehicle and two stereo cameras per measurement head provide an accurate 3D reference model of each wheel. Camber, individual toe, total toe, setback, caster and geometric driving axis values are taken in a few seconds and the system can be controlled remotely so the operator need not leave the vehicle. A database holds data for more than 30,000 vehicle types, from approximately 130 manufacturers.
- Free check for customer identifies revenue opportunities
Checking for steering & suspension problems is a fast and easy process with the Hunter Quick Check alignment system from Pro-Align. The preliminary alignment diagnostic system takes one minute to go through an initial six-point assessment. If it picks up any issues the vehicle can then go onto a workshop's main alignment system for a full check-up. The initial check measures 6 of the 14 primary angles and comes as a fixed point drive-through module which is ideal for the workshop entrance or a multibay system which can be transferred between work areas. QuickGrip adaptors fit onto the wheels in one simple click and the QuickComp feature allows rim run-out compensation in one short roll forward.
- Expert advice
Supertracker has been promoting the benefits of wheel alignment servicing for years and is currently reminding workshops that you get what you pay for, as cheaper products come into the market with little or no product support provided with them. Its products' design makes them versatile with no need to dedicate an area just for this service - quick checks can be made on any vehicle coming into the workshop. One-to-one, on-site tuition is supplied and a wheel alignment theory course is available at its HQ in Hampshire once a month.
