Rotary adds alignment systems to its portfolio

MADISON, Ind. — Vehicle Service Group's strategy to expand its Rotary-brand vehicle lift business into a wider range of wheel service equipment has moved one more step forward with the addition of a line of wheel alignment systems.

In moving into alignment, however, Rotary hasn't divorced itself from its lift heritage. The company's tower-free Baysaver alignment system combines with its XA14 scissor lift for a package that Rotary said can handle four-wheel alignments on vehicles ranging from subcompacts to work trucks.

"If it will fit in your bay, you can align it on the Rotary XA14 scissor lift," said John Uhl, director of lift product management for Rotary parent company VSG.

VSG's initiative to expand the Rotary business into wheel service equipment started with tire changers and now encompasses wheel balancers and alignment equipment.

Rotary can mate any of three available alignment systems — R1080 Baysaver 3D, R1070 CCD Pro or R1060 CCD Shop — with the XA14 scissor lift, which offers maximum vehicle access with an open front and rear, the VSG brand said.

In Rotary's alignment system, a pair of high-resolution cameras are affixed to the side rails of the lift, where they then scan the "patent-pending" three-point, quick-locking targets on each wheel.

Rotary claims this system — developed by VSG's Ravaglioli S.p.A. subsidiary in Italy — is more flexible than competing products because it has no towers. This also means there's no minimum bay size required.

The scissor lift has a rated lifting capacity of 14,000 lbs. and an adjustable front radius gauge that can accommodate wheelbases from 85.5 to 193 inches, An integrated rear slip plate allows lateral tire movement during adjustment.

"Many shops prefer scissor-style lifts for alignments," Mr. Uhl said. "With the addition of the XA14 scissor lift to our lineup, now all the lifts in the shop can be Rotary lifts."

Rotary claims the lift's "simple, robust design" contributes to an "affordable" purchase price and lower long-term maintenance costs. Operator controls are located in a compact console that can be installed on either side of the lift for maximum convenience.

The XA14 lift can be surface-mounted or recessed, based on customer preference.