LAS VEGAS (Nov. 1, 2006) — Hennessy Industries Inc. has re-engineered its tire changer design to improve the ergonomics and efficiency of the tire-changing process while also accommodating run-flat tires and wheels up to 30-inches in rim diameter.
The result is the Coats APX90 Tire Changer, unveiled this week at the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show in Las Vegas.
“The challenge was to design a piece of equipment that could handle any kind of application challenge, yet be intuitive and easy to use for any technician, not just a select one or two,” said Kevin Keefe, director of marketing for Hennessy.
“We talked to tire dealers across the country and observed technicians at work to make sure we developed the best product to meet their needs.”
APX90 also is designed with employee turnover in mind, Mr. Keefe said.
“Tire dealers need more than ever to consistently deliver an outstanding service experience in order to compete,” he said. “The APX90 minimizes the technician learning curve.”
At the same time, Hennessy developed a portable video display unit that can be mounted on the tire changer; the unit plays a recorded tutorial on tire changing, including special techniques necessary for handling run-flats, including Michelin's Pax run-flat tire/wheel system.
“The onboard training unit addition keeps tire technicians proficient,” Mr. Keefe said, “which is a key factor in helping our customers maintain their competitive edge.”
Other features of the APX90 include:
* Clamping capacity of 9 to 30 inches external and 11 to 32 inches internal for servicing today's wide range of tires and wheels;
* Industry prevailing rim clamp style operation means a short learning curve for technicians;
*Smart ergonomics with intuitive controls located at the point of actuation that requires only one operator regardless of tire size/difficulty; and
* A wheel lift to reduce operator fatigue and potential wheel damage.
Hennessy did not disclose a suggested retail price for the unit, saying only it is “competitively” priced when compared with the competition's top-end changers.