Tire size popularity

Next Article

Plant capacities

Top OE sizes get toppled

But don’t say ‘goodbye’ to P215/60R16 and LT245/75R16 just yet

Chart 23 MOST POPULAR DOMESTIC

OE PASSENGER AND LT TIRE SIZES 2009 OE P-Metric/metric

Siz e % of total

P215/60R16 9.0%

P265/70R17 5.5%

P235/70R16 4.5%

P215/55R17 4.2%

P225/50R17 3.4% 2008 OE P-Metric/metric

Size % of total

P215/60R16 8.0%

P225/50R17 4.8%

P265/70R17 3.9%

P195/60R15 3.8%

P215/55R17 3.6% 2009 OE Light truck (LT)

Size % of total

LT245/75R16 23.4%

LT245/75R17 13.8%

LT225/75R16 11.6%

LT265/70R17 10.5%

LT275/70R18 9.2% 2008 OE Light truck (LT)

Size % of total

LT245/75R16 36.3%

LT225/75R16 16.2%

LT265/70R17 9.4%

LT245/75R17 6.7% 37x12.50R16.5 4.8%

Source: Rubber Manufacturers Association T he top 10 P-metric original equipment tire sizes in 2009 accounted for 41.1% of total sizes. Th at percentage is up from 39.8% in 2008 and 33.8% in 2007. Unfortunately, this trend is not necessarily a sign that dealers will be able to stock fewer SKUS in the future.

“Probably the biggest single issue (for dealers and manufacturers) is SKU count, and it’s not going to get any bett er,” says Rick Brennan, vice president of marketing for Kumho Tire U.S.A. Inc.

At last year’s Specialty Equipment Market Association Show in Las Vegas, Nev., Lexani Tires Worldwide LLC introduced two unique sizes to its LX-9 line: 295/23/ R28 109W and 265/25R30 106V. Th ey are labeled as extra-load sizes.

In contrast, the top 10 OE LT sizes represented 90.7% of the total sizes, up from 88.6% in 2008.

MTD lists the most popular OE P-metric and LT sizes for 2009 and 2008 (see Chart 23) to give tire dealers a bett er idea of what to look for and stock in 2011. For example, dealers can expect to see vehicles with size P215/60R16 roll into their dealerships over the next few years.

That size had been the most popular P-metric OE size since 2004. Th e streak was broken in 2010, when P265/70R17 took over the top OE spot (see Chart 24). It jumped from third in 2008 to second in

Chart 24

TOP U.S. PASSENGER TIRE SIZES, 2010

Replacement OE

1 . P225/60R16 1. P265/70R17 2. 205/55R16 1. P215/60R16 3. P215/60R16 3. P205/55R16 4. P235/75R15 4. P225/50R17 5. P265/70R17 5. P215/55R17 2009 to fi rst last year, with P215/60R16 falling to second.

Two P-metric OE sizes entered the top 10 in 2009: P275/55R20 (eighth) and P275/65R18 (10th).

Both sizes had a resurgence of sorts; they were among the 10 most popular sizes in 2007.

Size LT245/75R16 was the top OE LT size for the 17th consecutive year in 2009. However, size LT245/75R17 had been trending upward for years, almost doubling its shipments from 2008, when it was the fourth most popular OE LT size, to 2009, when it was the second most popular.

In 2010, the 17-inch version fi nally overtook the LT245/75R16 for the top OE spot (see Chart 25).

At the replacement level, the top P-metric remained the same in 2010: P225/60R16. However, P235/75R15, runner-up in 2009, dropped to fourth in 2010, behind 205/55R16, a metric size, and P215/60R16.

Like its OE counterpart, the LT 245/75R16 replacement size also dropped from one to two. However, the new number one size is not LT245/75R17, which didn’t crack the top fi ve, but LT265/75R16. ■

Chart 25

TOP U.S. LIGHT TRUCK TIRE SIZES, 2010

Replacement OE

1 . LT265/75R16 1. LT245/75R17 2. LT245/75R16 1. LT225/75R16 3. LT265/70R17 3. LT245/75R16 4. LT235/85R16 4. LT275/65R18 5. LT285/75R16 5. LT245/75R16

Don’t dump on the dumping unit

ABS codes may be aff ecting the Nissan Quest actuator

By Paul Kujawa

SUBJECT VEHICLES: Nissan Quest/Mercury Villager minivans (up to the 2002 model year). COMPLAINT: Left /right rear brake is locking up. CAUSE/SOLUTION: Check ABS codes. Verify that the ABS actuator is not causing the dumping unit to hold brake fl uid pressure before replacing the master cylinder to get a new dumping unit.

If you encounter a Nissan Quest/Mercury Villager minivan (up to the 2002 model year) with the left front brake locking up, see if the right rear brake is locking up as well.

Th is vehicle has a component called a “dumping unit” that is screwed into one of the outlet ports of the master cylinder. Th e brake line for the left front and right rear brakes come out of this dumping unit. It has been common for the dumping unit to prevent brake fl uid from returning back into the master cylinder and releasing the left front and right rear brake, thus resulting in the left front and right rear brakes staying applied.

If the left front and right rear brakes are locked up, loosen the brake line from the dumping unit and verify the brakes free up, which indicates that the brake fl uid pressure is not releasing on its own. Th e master cylinder can be pulled away from the brake booster to eliminate the possibility of a brake pedal free play or pushrod adjustment problem; however, one of those problems should aff ect all four brakes.

We have had several shops tell us that replacing the dumping unit (which comes with a new master cylinder) fi xed the brake lock-up problem, but we have also experienced cases where this has not corrected the problem. Th e dumping unit is only used in the brake circuit for the left front and right rear brakes. Th ere is no dumping unit in the brake line off the master cylinder for the right front and left rear brakes.

(Note: Drilling out the dumping unit as a means of eliminating its ability to lock up the left front and right rear brakes is not advised as this can aff ect brake pedal feel.)

Recently, one of our Hotline subscribers in South Carolina called about a Nissan Quest with the left front brake caliper and rotor melted down. Th e left front brake rotor, caliper and brake hose were replaced — no change; the left front and right rear brake were still locking up aft er the vehicle was driven for a period of time. When the brake line was cracked loose at the dumping unit on the master cylinder, the left front and right rear brakes freed up. Th e master cylinder was replaced (to get a new dumping unit) and the problem was believed to be corrected. But aft er an extended test drive, the temperature of the left front brake rotor was considerably hott er than the right front brake rotor. Information gathered from a local Nissan dealer indicated the problem was in the ABS actuator. A problem in the ABS actuator was supposedly preventing the dumping unit at the master cylinder from releasing brake fl uid pressure causing the brake lockup problem. Th e ABS actuator was then replaced with a used component but the problem persisted. Th e ABS light was now “on,” so ABS codes were checked manually. There was a normal code 12, and a right front wheel speed sensor open circuit code 21. Not knowing if the original ABS actuator had the code 21 stored, the ABS actuator was replaced again. Th e left front brake rotor was still gett ing considerably hott er than the right front brake rotor and the code 21 returned. Diagnosing the right front wheel speed sensor open circuit code showed a defective right front wheel speed sensor. Th e speed sensor was replaced and the code 21 did not return. Checking brake rotor temperatures aft er a long test drive now showed the brake temperatures to be about the same, fi xing the vehicle.

The ABS code was affecting the ABS actuator and the ABS actuator was aff ecting the dumping unit, causing the dumping unit to hold brake fl uid pressure on the left front and right rear brakes.

If you get one of these vehicles in your shop with the left f ront and right rear brakes locking up, fi rst verify there are no ABS codes that might be aff ecting the ABS actuator. It is important to also verify that the ABS actuator is not causing the dumping unit to hold brake fl uid pressure on the left front and right rear brakes before replacing the master cylinder to get a new dumping unit. ■

Data provided by Paul Kujawa of Identifi x Inc. For more information, call (800) 997-1674 or visit www.identifi x.com.

An Avalanche of service

Th ere are three ways to learn vehicle’s new sensors

SUBJECT VEHICLE: 2007-10 GM Avalanche. SENSOR IN TIRE? Yes (located in each tire/wheel assembly). RESET PROCEDURE? Yes (whenever a tire pressure sensor has been replaced). SPECIAL TOOLS NEEDED? Yes (in certain cases, a TPM Sensor Activation Tool J-46079 may be used).

Th e 2007-10 Avalanche’s tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) displays tire pressures and tire locations on the vehicle’s Driver Information Center (DIC), one of the system’s many components. Other components include a Powertrain Control Module, Instrument Panel Cluster, Remote Control Door Lock Receiver (RCDLR), a radio frequency transmitt ing pressure sensor in each tire/wheel assembly and a serial data circuit.

When the vehicle is stationary, the sensors go into stationary mode, in which they transmit once every 60 minutes. As the Avalanche’s speed increases to 20 mph, the sensors go into drive mode, in which they transmit once every 60 seconds.

When the TPMS detects a signifi cantly under-infl ated tire, a ‘CHECK TIRE PRESSURE” message displays on the DIC.

Sensor swap

In order to service the Avalanche’s TPMS, you must fi rst demount the tire from the wheel. Follow these steps:

1. Raise the vehicle on a suitable support. Remove the tire/wheel assembly from the vehicle. 2. Demount the tire from the wheel following the tire changer manufacturer’s instructions.

Th ere are two kinds of sensors that can be used on the Avalanche’s TPMS: a clamp-in sensor and a snap-in sensor.

To service the clamp-in sensor:

1. Remove the tire pressure sensor nut. 2. Remove the sensor from the wheel hole. 3. Remove the sensor grommet from the valve stem. 4. Clean any dirt or debris from the grommet sealing areas. 5. Insert the sensor in the wheel hole with the air passage facing away from the wheel. 6. Install the sensor nut. Position the sensor body parallel to the inside wheel surface. 7. Tighten the nut to 62 in.-lbs. 8. Install the tire on the wheel, and then install the assembly back on the vehicle.

Follow these steps to service the snap-in sensor:

Figure 1: Exploded view of snap-in style tire pressure sensor.

1. Remove the TORX screw from the sensor and pull it straight off the pressure sensor valve stem (see Figure 1). 2. Remove the valve stem by pulling it through the rim. 3. Assemble the sensor to the valve stem and install the new TORX screw. 4. Apply tire soap to the rubber portion of the valve stem. 5. Pull the valve stem through in a direction parallel to the valve hole on the rim (see Figure 2). 6. Install the tire on the wheel, and then install the assembly back onto the vehicle.

Now you’re ready to initiate the new sensor’s relearn process.

Time to learn

Before starting the relearn process, make sure that no other tire pressure sensor learn procedure is being performed

simultaneously or that tire pressure levels are not being adjusted Th e left front turn signal also will be illuminated. Or, using the on a TPMS-equipped vehicle in close proximity. vehicle’s DIC, press and release the DIC INFO butt on until the

Th ere are three ways to enable the learn mode: using the TIRE LEARN message appears on the DIC display. Th en press TPM Sensor Activation Tool ( J-46079); using keyless entry and hold the SET/RESET butt on until a double horn chirp transmitt ers; and using the DIC. Here’s how to initiate and sounds, indicating that learn mode has been enabled. Th e left complete the learn process using the scan tool: front turn signal will be illuminated. 1. Using the tool, initiate the learn mode. A double horn chirp pressure for eight to 10 seconds or until a horn chirp sounds. will sound indicating that the mode has Th e chirp may occur before the tire pressure inbeen enabled. Th e left front turn signal crease/decrease time period has been reached also will be illuminated. or up to 30 seconds aft er the increase/decrease 2. Starting with the left front tire, acperiod has been reached. tivate the sensor by holding the antenna Once the chirp has sounded, the sensor of the tool upward against the sidewall information has been learned and the turn close to the wheel rim at the valve stem signal in the next location to be learned will location. illuminate.

Press and release the ACTIVATE but3. Aft er the horn chirp has sounded, proton and wait for a horn chirp. Once the chirp has sounded, the information has Figure 2: Installation of snap-in pressure sensor/valve assembly. ceed as in step two for the next three sensors in the following order: right front, right rear been entered into the system. Th e turn and left rear. signal in the next location to be learned 4. Aft er the left rear sensor has been learned, will illuminate. a double horn chirp will sound. Turn the ignition switch to the 3. Repeat step 2 for the remaining three sensors in the folOFF position to exit the learn mode. lowing order: right front, right rear and left rear. 5. Adjust all tires to specifi cation. 4. When the left rear sensor has been learned and the double horn chirp has sounded, the learn process is complete and the Keep in mind that the TPMS will cancel the learn mode if RCDLR will exit the learn mode. more than two minutes have passed and no sensors have been 5. Turn the ignition OFF and adjust all tire pressure levels learned, or if the system has been in learn mode for more than to the recommended pressures. fi ve minutes.

Here’s how to initiate and complete the learn process using learned, the RCDLR will remember all current sensor IDs and a keyless entry transmitt er or the DIC: their locations. ■ 1. Turn the ignition ON and initiate the learn mode. On models equipped with keyless entry, simultaneously press the keyless entry transmitt er lock and unlock butt ons until a double chirp sounds. Th is indicates that learn mode has been enabled. 2. Starting with the left front tire, increase or decrease the tire If the learn mode is canceled before any sensor has been

Information for this column comes from Mitchell 1’s ”Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems Guide” for domestic and import vehicles through 2010. Headquartered in Poway, Calif., Mitchell 1 has provided quality repair information solutions to the automotive industry for more than 80 years. For more information, visit www.mitchell1.com.

Change is dangerous if left unmanaged ‘How’s Zat sound?’

By Wayne Williams

The changes we are going to discuss in this month’s article and the next revolve around overcoming two major problems that have several contributing factors. Th e problems are having the necessary tires on hand and how to handle an out-of-stock situation.

Th e contributing factors to out-of-stock conditions and lost sales revolve around three things —the explosion of SKUs, the cost associated with inventorying tires, and consumers who have done more research before contacting the retailer.

All three of these changing dynamics translate into “change points,” which when properly managed equal opportunity to win business and increase profi tability. Unmanaged, they will lead to the deterioration of business revenue.

In previous articles we have discussed how SKU proliferation aff ects the tire dealer, the counter staff and the consumer. With the rapid addition of new vehicle categories such as crossovers and hybrids, and the rebirth of the American muscle cars, etc., tire sizing and fi tments continue to grow in both number and complexity.

In 1980, 102 tire SKUs were required for 80% vehicle coverage. Th is number has steadily increased to the current 352 SKUs — and it continues to grow! Th e challenge of having the right tire(s) in stock to meet consumer need has become increasingly diffi cult. Having the right tire at the right price with the right acceptability for each individual customer is challenging enough, but that’s not all. Th e “right” tires cost more to inventory today; much more.

Th ere was a time when certain-sized tires were “crossvehicle, cross-platform and cross-manufacturer.” One tire fi t many vehicles. Today it’s signifi cantly more complex and expensive. Example: In mid-December, Cadillac premiered its new CTS Sport Wagon. Th e premium model has “staggered” 19-inch tires — size 255/40R19 on the front, 265/35R19 on the rear. Cadillac will sell a limited number of these vehicles, introducing still more low replacement rate SKUs into the marketplace.

In the years to come customers may call local tire retailers and inquire about tires for their CTS Sport Wagon, and the reply will be, “We don’t have them in stock.” Th e local retailer is at a distinct disadvantage. It makes no fi nancial sense to inventory the replacement tire for the CTS Sport Wagon because the retailer only services the local market with limited demand. However, the “big online guys” can aff ord to inventory slow replacement SKUs because they service the entire nation. Selling over one million tires a month, they can aff ord to stock slower turnover SKUs.

Th is trend is not going to change any time soon. Th erefore, you must rethink your approach and develop workable solutions for handling out-of-stock conditions for your business, for your employees, and for your customers!

Next month, we will take a look at what I call the “Zat Method.” Here’s an example of the Zat Method in practice: “I don’t currently have your tire size in stock. May I have your name and the best way to reach you? I’ll do some research and get back to you with a price and availability as soon as possible — no later than noon today. How’s Zat sound?”

Until next month, remember: Bett er, more professional handling of out-of-stock conditions leads to bett er profi tability. How’s Zat sound? ■

Two FIRSTS for Falken Tire company addresses consumer and commercial markets

By Bob Ulrich Sincera SN211 Touring replacement tire line, which is availhelp maximize traction on wet surfaces. An asymmetric tread patt ern provides a comfortable ride. able in commodity original equipment sizes and backed by an

Falken Tire Corp. launched two tire lines at the Spe80,000-mile warranty. It will be available in March 2011. cialty Equipment Market Association Show last November. One targets the growing UHP touring From Ohtsu to Falken tire segment. Th e other satisfi es the government’s SmartWay EcoRun is the fi rst Falken branded medium truck tire certifi cation requirements for medium truck tires. Both are line sold in the United States. Falken Tire Corp. has been fi rsts for the company. selling Ohtsu truck tires since March of last year. “By 2013, our entire TBR line will be Falken branded,” says Andrew Hoit, director of marketing. EcoRun line premium steer (RI-109), drive (BI-887) and trailer (RI-119) tires are SmartWay certifi ed for low rolling resistance. Th ey are available in size 295/75R22.5. Craige McFerrin, Falken’s TBR specialist and account manager, says he expects size 11R22.5 to be added to the lineup in the second quarter. Two other sizes — 11R24.5 and 285/75R24.5 — will be added by the fourth quarter. Th e 16-ply RI-109 steer tire features a new and fl at tread design for improved tread wear. It has an 18/32-inch tread depth. Th e 16-ply BI-887 drive tire has a closed shoulder design that promotes even wear. It features a 26/32-inch tread depth. The Falken PT722 A/S is designed for dry and wet traction. It also has built-in Rotation Wear Indicators. Th e 14-ply RI-119 trailer tire’s tread design is optimized for improved vehicle stability and

Th e new Falken Azenis PT722 A/S is the company’s fi rst tread depth. premium ultra-high performance touring tire. It features a “We guarantee two retreads fi ve years from the D.O.T. deep tread depth and long lateral tread groove, traits that date,” adds McFerrin. ■ fuel-effi cient performance. It has a 12/32-inch Th e tire’s 44-size lineup is made up of “OE replacement sizes for vehicles such as large luxury sedans like the BMW 7 WildPeak’s wild ride Series, Lexus LS and Mercedes CL, as well as some popular This month, Falken Tire Corp. will plus size fi tments,” says Robert Chew, manager of product add 17 Large Overall Diameter (LOD) planning. sizes to its 27-size WildPeak A/T light

Th e V-rated sizes are backed by a 60,000-mile tread wear truck tire lineup. The new sizes will warranty. Th e W-rated sizes are covered by a 40,000-mile range from 33 to 37 inches for 17-, warranty. Th ey break out as follows: 18- and 20-inch wheel fi tments. The 37-inch tire debuted at Off 16-inch: 205/55VR16 through 225/50VR16; Road Evolution’s JK Experience 17-inch: 215/55VR17 through 245/40VR17; last year. At last November’s SEMA 18-inch: 225/60VR18 through 275/35WR18; Show, Falken announced it had ex19-inch: 245/45WR19 through 275/30WR19; tended its deal as presenting spon20-inch: 245/45WR20 through 275/30WR20. sor of the week-long event.

“It’s the first time we’ve had tires in those sizes with The JK Experience, which promotes the on- and off-road capabilities of the Falken introduced LOD sizes for the (those) mileage warranties,” says Chew. Jeep Wrangler JK, will be expanded WildPeak A/T at the

Th e Azenis PT722 A/S complements the year-old Falken to three events this year. Global Tire Expo.

A truly ‘Grand’ Opening Th e Tire Choice celebrates its 30th store close to home

By Bob Ulrich

Dan and Diane Hennelly were waiting anxiously for the Certifi cate of Occupancy to arrive. Th eir new tire store in Oakland Park, Fla., was scheduled to open the next day, and there was no room for error.

Too many guests had been invited to celebrate the opening of Hennelly Tire & Auto Inc.’s 30th outlet, which does business as Th e Tire Choice & Total Car Care. Mario Andrett i’s appearance had been three months in the making.

Th e city’s Municipal Building and its services close for the day at 4:30 p.m. Th e certifi cate arrived at 4:25 p.m. Th e last hurdle had been cleared.

Gett ing to that point, however, was a totally new experience for Dan, the company’s chairman and CEO, and Diane, vice-chairperson and CFO.

Th e cost to renovate the 40-year-old building, a former independent Goodyear dealership, was $396,000. Th at included a new roof, which needed decking replaced and “hurricane standards” met, according to Dan.

“It was a huge expense, and we lost time — about two weeks.”

Th e store is located in an affl uent area close to where the Hennelly’s live, and where their headquarters is located.

“In that neighborhood, we really fi ght the Mercedes and Lexus dealers, not Tire Kingdom and Tires Plus,” says Dan.

“It’s impossible to get zoning here in East Fort Lauderdale. And the city doesn’t want the bays facing the street. We want bays facing the street. We want consumers to know what we do.”

Fortunately, the building and location were zoned for automotive service, and the bays that faced the street grandfathered in.

Th e Hennelly’s plan to open between six and 10 more stores in 2011. ■

Dan played host to some 200 people at the grand opening of his 30th location.

Diane and Dan Hennelly (center) and Mario Andretti are all smiles during the ribbon-cutting ceremony as Broward County Sheriff Al Lamberti (left) and Oakland Park Mayor Allegra Webb Murphy look on. The local economy “is moving again,” said Murphy.

Right: There is $180,000 worth of equipment in the new store, which features eight bays. A typical Tire Choice outlet has eight to 10 bays.

Left: The Hennellys fi lmed the grand opening for posterity. Below: Travis Lefl ar (left) was the store’s fi rst customer, much to the pleasure of Jaime Lugo (right) and fellow store manager Adam Hamill.

Above: “It’s our fl agship store,” says Diane Hennelly, who designed it with granite countertops, marble fl oors and dark wood paneling. “It’s just a lot more comfortable and much more high-end than our typical store.”

Left: The latest Tire Choice covers 7,300 square feet. The blueprint for each store built from the ground up is 6,000 square feet.

The Hennellys already are working on their 31st store (left), near Largo, Fla. It’s a great location, says Dan. “That store would make a better Starbucks than tire store.”

Hunter RX10 scissor lift

Hunter Engineering is offering the Hunter RX10 scissor lift with a 10,000-pound lifting capacity and a choice of runway lengths to accommodate everything from passenger cars to the longest crew cab pickup trucks. The scissor design requires minimum bay space and can save further space with a shallow-pit installation that sets the runways fl ush to the fl oor when fully lowered, eliminating the need for long approach ramps. Surfacemounted models provide a lowered height of only 8.75 inches, providing clearance for vehicles with low ride height or low-hanging spoilers. The RX10 improves productivity with timesaving features like the optional PowerSlide system, which automatically controls turnplate and slipplate operation, and the optional Infl ation Station feature, which speeds service and ensures more accurate alignments by automatically setting a predetermined tire pressure for each wheel simultaneously. The extra-wide 24-inch runways with louvered ramps make positioning the vehicle on the lift rack easy and the open access at the front and rear create an unrestricted workspace underneath the vehicle. Optional 6,000-pound capacity swing air jacks add the capability of lifting vehicles off the runways during alignment procedures and other service operations.

HUNTER ENGINEERING CO. Quik-Link: (800) 687-1557, ext. 11170 www.mtdquiklink.com/11170

General Grabber

General Tire’s new Grabber tire has tough, three-ply reinforced body construction and a race-proven chip- and tear-resistant Duragen-tread compound that stands up to the rigors of highway and offroad conditions. General Tire’s Duragen technologies consist of ultra-high-strength steel belts and a three-ply casing. The Grabber’s “strake and chamfer” tread pattern is designed to take on the elements with ease, the company says. The strake, or sweeping groove across the tread, allows the chamfering (or opening) of the tread block corners to directly interface with off-road terrain. The tread pattern is stable and quiet on paved roads yet has traction “pockets” for aggressive off-road traction. The tough sidewall is engineered from General Tire’s off-road competition experience. The Grabber is available in a range of popular 15- to 20-inch sizes to fi t a variety of pickups, sport trucks and SUVs. And in select sizes, the tire will include the same red lettered sidewalls that are used on the desert racing version of the Grabber, the company notes.

CONTINENTAL TIRE THE AMERICAS LLC Quik-Link: (800) 687-1557, ext. 11171 www.mtdquiklink.com/11171 New BKT tire size

BKT Tires USA is offering a new size for its Multimax MP 522 radial off-highway tire. Size 500-70 R24 replaces size 19.5 LR 24. The tire is designed with aggressive tread lugs for traction in all service conditions and at higher loads. Reinforced steel belts and a strong casing provide resistance to punctures and a special tread compound has an optimum tread depth for long mileage, the company reports.

BKT TIRES USA INC. Quik-Link: (800) 687-1557, ext. 11172 www.mtdquiklink.com/11172

WP8300 wheel balancer

Wheel Products by McCourt has introduced the WP8300 wheel balancer with an LCD display to make tire calibration quick and easy. The tire optimization feature and the space-saving hood increase the operator’s safety, as well, the company says. Standard accessories include three passenger cones, a light truck cone and spacer, a quick release wing nut, caliper and wheel weight hammers. The WP8300 comes with a hidden weight program and is accurate to one gram. It can be programmed for use by multiple operators and also includes an easy-to-use automatic data entry system and a weight saver program. The balancer works on tires with diameters up to 42 inches, rim widths of 1.5 inches to 20 inches and rim diameters of 10 inches to 30 inches. It will hold tires that weigh up to 165 pounds and spin them in less than fi ve seconds. Rugged construction assures a long life of everyday use, the company reports. Optional accessories include motorcycle adapters and a pin plate kit to provide additional versatility.

WHEEL PRODUCTS BY MCCOURT Quik-Link: (800) 687-1557, ext. 11173 www.mtdquiklink.com/11173

Rancho Loaded QuickLIFT

Tenneco Inc.’s Rancho Loaded QuickLIFT units — which include the application-matched and installed coil spring and upper mounting plate — speed installs and require no aggressive investment in equipment or training. The units provide 1- to 2.5-inches of additional lift, allowing for the use of larger wheel and tire packages while giving the vehicle an aggressive stance. The new QuickLIFT units are fi nished in Rancho Liquid Metallic Silver. Fully compatible with the Rancho MyRIDE Wireless Controller, Rancho Loaded QuickLIFT units can be wirelessly controlled from the cab. The Wireless Controller includes a variety of onetouch presets, including highway, sport, tow/haul, off-road and a driver-determined MyRide, which allows the owner to set his own preferred ride setting and save it for future use.

TENNECO INC. Quik-Link: (800) 687-1557, ext. 11174 www.mtdquiklink.com/11174

To request free product information by phone, call 800-687-1557, enter the extension number listed below, and you will be immediately transferred to the company you want to talk with — it takes only seconds.

To request information online, log on to www. mtdquiklink.com/ plus the corresponding Quik-Link number. You’re just a click away from receiving free information on the new products that interest you.

Advertiser

ASA Tire Atturo Tire Corporation Autopromotec Bartec USA Bee Line Company BKT Tires, North America Bridgestone Firestone, Affi liated Dealer CIMS Inc. Continental Tire the Americas LLC Cooper Tire Corghi USA Inc. Dealer Strategic Planning Inc. EcoExpress Tire Centers GE Money General Tire Greenball Corporation GT Radial Hankook Tires Hennessy Industries Inc. Hercules Tires Hunter Engineering Company Identifi x Independent Tire Dealers Group Kenda USA Kumho Tire USA Marangoni Tread North America Inc. Maxxis International—USA Nexen Tire America Inc. Pirelli Tire North America Reliable Int’l Exhibition Services Co. Ltd. Sentaida International Inc. SKF USA Inc. The Tire Rack Wholesale Tire Centers LLC Tire Industry Association (TIA) Toyo Tires Yokohama Tire Corporation

800-687-1557 + Page Toll Free Extension

24 18 51 54 55 10 IFC 56 33 7 20 39 25 19 41 49 13 9 47 31 35 22 15 IBC 5 45 37 29 17 46 11 53 21 IBC 61 23 27 11116 11110 11130 11132 11133 11105 11101 11134 11121 11103 11112 11124 11117 11111 11125 11129 11107 11104 11128 11120 11122 11114 11108 11136 11102 11126 11123 11119 11109 11127 11106 11131 11113 11137 11135 11115 11118

Web site

www.mtdquiklink.com/11116 www.mtdquiklink.com/11110 www.mtdquiklink.com/11130 www.mtdquiklink.com/11132 www.mtdquiklink.com/11133 www.mtdquiklink.com/11105 www.mtdquiklink.com/11101 www.mtdquiklink.com/11134 www.mtdquiklink.com/11121 www.mtdquiklink.com/11103 www.mtdquiklink.com/11112 www.mtdquiklink.com/11124 www.mtdquiklink.com/11117 www.mtdquiklink.com/11111 www.mtdquiklink.com/11125 www.mtdquiklink.com/11129 www.mtdquiklink.com/11107 www.mtdquiklink.com/11104 www.mtdquiklink.com/11128 www.mtdquiklink.com/11120 www.mtdquiklink.com/11122 www.mtdquiklink.com/11114 www.mtdquiklink.com/11108 www.mtdquiklink.com/11136 www.mtdquiklink.com/11102 www.mtdquiklink.com/11126 www.mtdquiklink.com/11123 www.mtdquiklink.com/11119 www.mtdquiklink.com/11109 www.mtdquiklink.com/11127 www.mtdquiklink.com/11106 www.mtdquiklink.com/11131 www.mtdquiklink.com/11113 www.mtdquiklink.com/11137 www.mtdquiklink.com/11135 www.mtdquiklink.com/11115 www.mtdquiklink.com/11118

Quik-Link: 800-687-1557 ext. 11137