LAS VEGAS—Hunter Engineering Co. introduced several new products, including an updated tire changer and service equipment accessories, during the recent Specialty Equipment Market Association Show in Las Vegas.
The updated TC3700 Tire Changer features an enhanced bead roller positioning system. The new controls allow the operator to pre-position the rollers for bead breaking, lower bead demounting and match mounting.
The TC3700 features a center-clamp system with cam action to multiply clamping force, the company said. A vertical locking polymer mount/demount head resists marring rims and an optional bead press arm assists mounting difficult assemblies, the company said.
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The TCX625 Plus tire changer provides accessories with the TCX625 mounting equipment. The TCX625's pedal-controlled inner roller saves the operator time and effort, bringing service times that are comparable to manual methods, but are much safer, the company said, noting that an enhanced lever helps improve traction when mounting the outer bead.
Hunter's TCX625 Plus HD combines compact size with a mount/demount roller mechanism for servicing heavy-duty, over-the-road truck assemblies, especially wide-based and specialty assemblies. Accessories include ramps to help reduce operator effort.
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Hunter's plastic mount head for tabletop tire changers features a patented “wing” on the reverse to simplify mounting tough tires, the company said.
The mount head's design helps shops service new wheel designs, while providing wheel protection and durability, Hunter said. It also helps prevent the head from getting “stuck” in the tire after mounting.
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Hunter has introduced the Quick ID to provide vehicle identification for vehicle inspections. Quick ID identifies the vehicle's information including license plate, vehicle identification number (VIN), year, make model and alignment specifications, Hunter said.
This feature fully automates Hunter's Quick Tread, providing a nonstop inspection process and eliminating the need for a technician in the lane, the company said.
Using VIN or license information, Quick Check and Quick Tread results can be fully integrated with the dealership's service lane software to enhance service department revenue, the company said.
Hunter said current Quick Check and Quick Tread units can be upgraded with Quick ID technology with WinAlign 15.0 software.
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Hunter's new AutoComp Elite brake lathe features automatic compensation technology that determines the position of the internal plates to maximize speed and accuracy without operator intervention, the company said.
The 7-inch touchscreen provides a user-friendly interface that allows technicians to look up required adaptors, operate the lathe, including changing cutting direction and speed, and view instructional videos.
The interface also includes the BitMinder feature which monitors bit life and recommends replacement to improve cut quality and reduce waste.
AutoComp Elite includes patented Anti-Chatter Technology, which eliminates the buildup of vibration (chatter) that can occur when machining rotors at a fixed speed, the company said. This provides a smoother rotor finish without the use of chatter bands or other cumbersome devices, Hunter said.