A massive saving
Wheel balancer from Proalign
Published: 07 December, 2013
Wingerworth Tyres bought a Hunter wheel balancer which features SmartWeight wheel balancing, from Pro-Align back in 2007 and data from the equipment has shown that since its installation, the Derbyshire business has saved more than 800Kg of unnecessary balance weights at an estimated cost of £6,000, factoring in labour savings, the saving amounts to £10,000. Unlike conventional balancers, SmartWeight calculates the imbalance forces separately and a combined correction balance weight is recommended to bring the balance within toilerance. This method is quicker and requires less balance weights. "As wheel design has evolved, the traditional method of applying clip on weights to the rim flange has virtually disappeared," explains Paul Beaurain, MD of Pro-Align, "Instead, adhesive weights are now placed on the inside of the rim but the downside to this is that it takes longer and uses more weight. However, as proven by this SmartWeight unit, there is a way to combat this and save workshops serious amounts of time and money and it comes as no surprise that Wingerworth tyres replaced this unit with a newer GSP9200 model."
- Need a lift?
The Technique T1001 is a 3.5 tonne capacity lift built by Rotary Lift for its UK distributor Trade Garage Equipment and is available to Aftermarket readers over the next few weeks at a special rate, with a free set of height adaptors and a three-year warranty on parts and labour thrown in. The T1001 hydraulic, two-post lift has three stage front and rear supporting arms which automatically lock into position during lifting. The lifting columns are powered by high pressure hydraulic cylinders and a safety latch is integrated into both.
- Probes, plates and beams
A range of MOT tools, ancillary items and spares for MOT lifts and emission gas analysers are available from Prosol. A range of turning plates includes the roller bearing type and stainless steel for most vehicle lifts. British made jacking beams are available with varying lifting capabilities and low profile options. The firm also provides gas analyser filters, oxygen and O2 sensors and probes for most manufacturers.
- Brakes and batteries
Two bits of news from Euro Car Parts this month - firstly, Ferodo brake pads have joined its inventory, the preferred choice by Fiat, Ford, Renault and Volkswagen. Also, in its capacity of sole UK distributor of Lion Batteries, it has announced two further additions to its AGM range, which now includes five references for numerous vehicles. One covers the Toyota Prius and Lexus CT200H, the second fits many applications for Ford, Vauxhall, VW and some Japanese models.
- Prevent blockages
A fuel additive has been developed by Liqui Moly to protect diesel particulate filters and is designed to be used before fuelling every 1,250 miles. The 250ml can treats 50 to 70 litres of fuel and is suitable for all vehicles fitted with a DPF unless they have an electronically additive tank system, as is the case with Citroen and Peugeot vehicles. "This additive is a practical new service for garages that can save their customers a great deal of expense," explains Liqui Moly spokesman Schönfelder. "And this will show competence to boot, which strengthens the relationship with the customer."
- Sticking sensors
A total of 27 EGR valves have been added to the Sensors' engine management programme and cover more than 1,000 vehicle applications. The component is a vital part of the exhaust system, failure is often caused by a build-up of carbon and dirt which makes the valve stick, replacement is then required. Other sensors available include those for mass air flow, ABS, throttle position, camshaft position and manifold pressure. The entire range and cross references can be found online at www.sensors.uk.com.
