CHAMBERSBURG, Pa. (April 25, 2013) — International Marketing Inc (IMI) has introduced Checkpoint, a point-to-point loose nut indicator for commercial vehicle wheels.
IMI said a new, shorter indication arrow allows for the placement of Checkpoint units in pairs so they point toward each other in a point-to-point configuration. This is a preferred option over a typical "daisy chain" configuration—where indication arrows point in a clockwise direction—because of easier detection of lug nut movement, according to the Chambersburg-based trucking maintenance products and equipment marketer. Slight movements of lug nuts that may have gone unnoticed before now can be seen earlier and with greater certainty, it added.
"Loose wheel nut indicators have been introduced to the U.S. market over the last few years and have helped many fleets improve their wheel torque programs," IMI said. "However, there is a misconception in the industry that these indicators prevent loose wheel nuts. In reality, they only visually indicate when a wheel nut is starting to loosen and has moved."
The company said its Checkpoint unit's real benefit for fleets and tire dealers is to provide an early warning of loose wheel nuts and make wheel safety checks more efficient.
While safety checks offer improved overall fleet maintenance and safety, IMI suggested using Checkpoint as part of a total wheel torque/maintenance program. "Proper maintenance practices are still needed to prevent wheel-offs, including following all manufacturer specifications for torque, properly calibrating tools, cleaning studs and making sure stud threads have not been stretched," the company said.
IMI also is offering its CheckTorque product in a shorter point-to-point size. CheckTorque is typically red— instead of yellow—and serves as a re-torque reminder for fleet maintenance after the initial tire mounting. Once wheels have been re-torqued following the initial 50-100 miles, the units may be replaced by a standard Checkpoint, IMI said.
More product information is available from IMI by calling 800-233-7086.