Alliance Tire Group released its new Galaxy EXR 300 E3/L3 construction tire, which the company said leverages a new, big-block tread design to deliver added traction, stability and performance life to heavy equipment used in construction, mining and municipal applications. Large center lugs maximize ground contact for maximum stability, while aggressive tread blocks along the shoulders of the tire ensure a strong grip in a wide variety of ground conditions, according to the tiremaker. With a rugged compound and 20-ply construction, the Galaxy EXR 300 is available in size 23.5-25 to fit a wide variety of loaders, earthmovers and dump trucks.

ASA Automotive Systems displayed three next-generation technology modules – a new scheduler, a mobile warehouse quick order entry system, and general ledger – which have been completed as part of the company’s new technology rewrite. With the look and feel of a Microsoft Outlook-type calendar, including color coding and drag and drop capabilities, ASA’s Scheduler allows dealers to book appointments from a work order or the calendar, view appointments by date, location, bay, technician and other user defined resources, as well as email service reminders. The Mobile Warehouse Order Entry module empowers remote salespeople to quickly and easily search inventory and order tires online, as well as capture signatures electronically, according to ASA. The web-based General Ledger is the first accounting module that’s been rewritten with full integration to the TireMaster family of products, incorporating new functionality with enhanced drill down and reporting capabilities.

Bartec introduced two new TPMS tools – the Tech200 and Tech500 – and new TPMS management software, TPMS HUB. The Tech200 TPMS Activation Tool’s compact and rugged design, coupled with Bartec software, allows for fast and easy TPMS sensor testing. It features wireless Bluetooth to transmit sensor information to a computer or printer. The Tech500 features a rugged, ergonomic enclosure design and like its predecessor, the Tech400SD, its all-in-one design includes built-in OBD functionality, as well as wireless Bluetooth and Wi-Fi technology. TPMS Hub includes sensor searches, TPMS tool work instructions, re-learn procedures and Bartec Tech Tips, the company added.

Bosch Group unveiled the Tech 2 Pro Optima scan tool package, which includes the General Motors Tech 2, CANdi module and 32MB programming card. The Bosch Tech 2 allows technicians to diagnose and repair many GM vehicle manufactured from 1992 to current with the exception of those vehicles that are covered by GM’s GDS 2. In addition, Bosch updated its Mastertech VCI (M-VCI) scan tool with expanded, in-depth vehicle coverage with its new ESI[tronic] 2.0 diagnostic software. The software, which provides troubleshooting instructions, vehicle maintenance schedules and technical service bulletins, is sold as a M-VCI Trio Package consisting of the M-VCI scan tool bundled with a laptop PC and USB wireless adapter, or the VCI 2 package, which includes the M-VCI scan tool and USB wireless adapter with software that can be loaded on an existing PC.

Chicago Pneumatic introduced 20 new high-performance air tool models. The CP7748 Brute Force 1/2-inch impact wrench offers 922 foot-pounds of maximum real torque in reverse and extremely fast run-off, making it ideal for the tire industry. The CP7759Q 1/2-inch impact wrench, which features Side-to-Side Technology (S2S) that allows the operator to easily change between forward and reverse with one hand, delivers 780 foot-pounds of maximum real torque. Rugged new models have been added to the to the CP77X9 family: the CP7769 3/4-inch heavy-duty impact wrench is engineered to be compact, well-balanced and lightweight, with 1,440 foot-pounds of torque. These heavy-duty impact wrenches feature dual socket retention, with friction retainer ring and hole retainer for additional socket security. The new CP Nano Series rotary screw air compressor is built for high-efficiency, continuous operation and reduced operating costs in a compact, workspace-saving design. The series includes five models ranging from 3 to 15 hp with stable air output at 125 or 150 psi standard with high-efficiency air ends/elements that produce drier, cooler air, the company said.

Double Coin Holdings and the China Manufacturers Alliance introduced three new tires. The new OptiGreen Series FD425 Super Wide, which the tiremaker said is an “ultra-premium, fuel and weight efficient drive position tire,” features advanced tread compounds; a wider, low profile design; and less weight savings for greater mileage. The SmartWay-verified tire is available in size 445/50R22.5, load index 161. The new RSD3 ultra-premium on/off-highway drive tire is optimized for severe winter driving conditions, engineered with specific features to enhance ice and snow traction and performance, the tiremaker added. The RSD3 is available in sizes 11R22.5, 295/80R22.5 and 315/80R22.5, with more sizes to come in 2013. The Double Coin REM-28S radial OTR tire, designed for loaders, graders and mobile cranes in winter applications, features a wide footprint for excellent flotation; and zigzag siping and a tread block design that increase winter performance. The tire is available in sizes 385/95R24 (grader), 17.5R25 and 20.5R25 (loader), and 385/95R24 (high speed mobile crane), with more sizes to come in 2013.

Cooper Tire & Rubber Co. showed a number of new products. With a launch targeted for early to mid-2013, the all-season CS3 Touring features the tiremaker’s “StabilEdge” technology for dry handling stability, crisper steering response and improved ride comfort, according to Cooper. It offers a five-rib tread pattern for improved wet and light snow traction; a tread pitch and pattern design for a smooth, quiet ride; and a tread compound and profile that promotes even wear and long tread life. The CS3 Touring replaces the Lifeliner GLS and will come in 58 T, H and V speed rated sizes. The Mastercraft Courser AXT, available now in 50 LT-metric and P-metric SUV sizes ranging from 15- through 20-inch wheel diameters, features “a progressive five-rib tread design, aggressive off-road capabilities, confident highway control and wear, and balanced all-season performance,” as well as wide center tread elements with an open groove design and an aggressive buttress shoulder design for better off-road traction, Cooper added. Also displayed were new commercial truck tires: the Roadmaster RM230 WB, an on-/off-road tire with damage-resistant tread suited for cement mixers, dump trucks and haul applications, available in sizes 385/65R22.5 and 425/65R22.5; the Roadmaster RM254 regional drive tire, with treadwear and traction required for frequent stops and acceleration, available in six load range H and G sizes; and the Roadmaster RM851, a SmartWay-verified regional and long-haul drive tire designed to boost fuel efficiency, available in four load range G sizes.

Doublestar Tire Corp. showed its Color Tire, which the tiremaker said comes in four colors – red, yellow, blue and green – and offers the same performance and treadwear as its regular black tires. Made through new manufacturing technology, Doublestar said its current passenger and truck/bus radials can be made in color based upon customer request.

EnerSys unveiled its new Odyssey Performance Series line of batteries and rebranded its existing line of Odyssey batteries as Odyssey Extreme Series batteries to differentiate between the existing product line and the new line, which is designed for consumer applications. Designed with the same rugged construction as the Extreme Series batteries, EnerSys said the new Perf­- ormance Series batteries offer equivalent deep cycling capabilities, long service life and high reliability. Odyssey Performance Series batteries are constructed of a polypropylene case and cover that resists oil, cleaners and gasoline, in the same black/orange color scheme as the Extreme Series batteries, EnerSys added.

Falken Tire Corp. introduced the latest generation of its all-season performance tire for luxury SUVs and light trucks, the Ziex S/TZ05. Key to the character of the S/TZ05 is its advanced M+S-rated, all-season, non-directional tread design. The tire also features double-tapered tread blocks and staggered shoulder lug grooves for a smooth, quiet ride; double taper-cut tread blocks that intensify noise reduction and water evacuation; a solid center rib for improved lateral handling and highway stability; and wide shoulder blocks for added tread stiffness and performance, according to Falken. The S/TZ05 is available in popular SUV and light truck wheel fitments ranging from 20 to 24 inches.

Greenball Corp. displayed its Tow-Master Summer Solution, a new and improved specialty trailer tire that features revised compounding to improve heat dissipation and allow for cooler running temperatures. Key areas of the tire, such as the inner liner and belt edge package, have been re-engineered for more reliable operation, according to the tiremaker. The company also is expanding its line of light truck tires with the Centennial Terra Commander, an all-terrain high-traction tire for pick-ups and SUVs that will be available in early 2013.

Hankook Tire America Corp. introduced its latest UHP all-season tire, the Ventus S1 Noble2, made from a new silica tread compound for improved wet grip and lower rolling resistance. The new tire features a triple-radius profile that maintains maximum grip, as well as offering lower rolling resistance for increased fuel efficiency, Han­kook said. The tire offers uniform contact pressure on its center and shoulder blocks for secure braking performance, while straight rib blocks on the outside of the tire reduce road noise. The Ventus S1 Noble2 will be available in March 2013 in 40 sizes ranging from 16- through 20-inch fitments.

Hercules Tire & Rubber Co. previewed the new Hercules Terra Trac R/S on-/off-road light truck tire and Ironman RB-12 all-season touring tire, both due out the first quarter of 2013. The Terra Trac R/S (rugged surfaces) replaces the former Terra Trac A/W, featuring a similar tread pattern and updated styling. The tire is aggressive and versatile, according to Her­cules, with a low-void shoulder and wide footprint for enhanced stability. Built for all-season performance, the Terra Trac R/S offers puncture protection and advanced sidewall construction to protect against sidewall impact, and is designed for rugged commercial applications, the tiremaker added. The M+S-rated tire will be introduced in 10 popular sizes. The Ironman RB-12 will launch in 21 T, H and V speed rated sizes covering 13- to 16-inch wheel diameters. The tire features a symmetric, five-rib tread design with a larger footprint for stability and performance; slotted shoulders, moderate siping and wide grooves for enhanced water evacuation; and a variable tread design for driver comfort and reduced road noise, Hercules said.

Hunter Engineering Co. introduced its SmartWeight Touch balancer, which features a touchscreen interface, eCal Auto-Calibration that doesn’t require operator input, and CenterCheck for proper centering. The balancer, which handles up to 30-inch wheel diameter tires, also provides training videos and TPMS reset procedures. Hunter also demonstrated its Fully Integrated Alignment, claiming its HawkEye Elite Alignment System and RX Lift can help technicians present results in 90 seconds by eliminating time-consuming trips around the vehicle and trips to the console. The system uses Hunter’s CodeLink sensor that links the vehicle OBD-II to the aligner and WinAlign software, the maker added.

Ingersoll Rand said the latest addition to its IQV20 Series cordless tool family, the W5130 3/8-inch 20V Mid-Torque Impactool, offers high performance, long-lasting durability and the versatility to access tight spots in multiple locations. The W5130 boasts 190 foot-pounds of torque and a length of just 6.6 inches from tip to tail. According to the maker, the IQV20 Series battery platform allows the W5130 power levels rivaling a pneumatic tool packed into the convenience of cordless.

Ken-Tool announced several new products. Its ReCore Sensor Saver System offers everything tire techs need to repair corroded TPMS valves – including nickel-plated replacement valve stems and caps that will not fail due to galvanic corrosion, the company said. Techs work directly on the damaged valves, removing the corroded stem, tapping new threads and torqueing in the replacement stem without the need to remove the tires from the vehicle, rebalance the tires, and reset or relearn the TPMS sensor. Ken-Tool said its new earthmover and ag tire inflation cage, made from heavy gauge steel tubing welded to a steel base, measures 48x72x89 inches and guards technicians and the shop environment against injury and damage from the explosions that stem from blown locking drums on large tires. Lastly, Ken-Tool said its new Dual Wheel Separator makes removing stuck or frozen dual steel wheels quick and easy. Ideal for use on nearly any dual steel wheel truck, bus or van, the separator slips between the frozen wheels and uses the power of a screw-driven pusher to force them apart. Technicians can drive it easily with an impact wrench, the maker added.

Mickey Thompson Performance Tires & Wheels debuted two hybrid design light truck tires, both of which will be available the first quarter of 2013. The Baja ATZP3 is a combination all-terrain/mud-terrain tire featuring an extra-wide footprint, large tread blocks and scalloped shoulder lugs designed to provide on- and off-road traction. The tire also offers deep side-biters for improved protection; multi-draft grooves for self-cleaning and improved wear; and a new tread compound with improved cut and chip protection, the company said. The tire will be released in 20 sizes with wheel diameters ranging from 15 to 20 inches. The tiremaker also added the Fun Country hybrid all-terrain/­mud-terrain tire to its Dick Cepek tire line. The tire shares many features with the ATZP3 and will be available in 20 sizes with wheel diameters ranging from 15 to 20 inches.

Optima Batteries added the Optima Chargers Digital 400 12V Performance Maintainer and Battery Charger to its new line of battery charging products. The tool is compact and is compatible for use in automotive, truck, marine, motorcycle, pow-­ er­sport, lawn and garden, and RV applications. The product has a charge rate of up to four amps on large batteries and three amps on small batteries and can be utilized to keep all 12V AGM and flooded batteries healthy during storage, the maker said.

OTC released a family of waterproof-grade LED work lights equipped with a lithium-ion battery designed for making a technician’s work environment safer and more productive. Each unit within the Spectrum series provides 50,000 hours of light and is equipped with a hang hook, magnetic base, pivoting body, face light and a top light. With a rubberized coating for an easy grip, the Spectrum lights also are impact and water resistant, and come with both AC and DC chargers, the company said.

Progressive Automotive Systems showed enhanced features of its R.O. Writer Shop Management Software that allow the user to accurately identify required parts and labor to build an accurate estimate and maximize margins, the maker said. Its enhanced parts sourcing through NAPA ProLink allows the user to compare pricing and automatically calculate profit margins, while the new multi-store management option enables users to instantaneously access vehicle repair information from multiple locations.

Schrader introduced its EZ-Tire tire-mounted TPMS sensors. Using the same programmable sensing technology as its valve-mounted EZ-Sensor, the EZ-Tire sensor is enclosed within a small, circular rubber fitment package that easily adheres to the innerliner of the tire. Schrader said given its location, the EZ-Tire solution expands the benefits of TPMS to a wide range of new applications. EZ-Tire is programmable across diverse TPMS protocols and vehicle platforms, saving installation time, cost and inventory requirements, according to Schrader.

Tenneco announced plans to accelerate its “Continuous Launch” product program in 2013 with a significant number of new Monroe shock absorber and strut SKUs, as well as aggressive expansion of its Monroe Quick-Strut product line. The new program enables Tenneco customers to access the latest Monroe part numbers on a quarterly basis, rather than waiting until the end of the year. New coverage will include an expansion of the Monroe OESpectrum shock and strut offering for late-model Asian and European applications, as well as more than 50 additional Monroe Strut-Mate mounting kits for popular domestic and foreign applications. Tenneco also launched Monroe Pro­Solution brake pads, a “premium technology available at a mid-range price.” The pads feature premium-grade friction formulations and pad designs, yet are priced to help shops attract and retain budget-minded customers. A vast majority of ProSolution pad sets come complete with noise reducing pad installation hardware, Tenneco said.

Toyo Tire USA Inc. unveiled its new iPad app, which provides easy access to Toyo’s product information, including training, videos, sizes and specifications, brochures and more, according to the company. The app is designed to help train dealers on the company’s products, while dealers can use it to train their own staff and to sell in the showroom. Users can access information such as a product overview, product features and benefits, size information and specifications, and multi-media, Toyo said.

Vredestein North America displayed its latest two Giugiaro Design-enhanced summer tires. The Vredestein Ultrac Vorti carries a Y speed rating and “excels in terms of grip, handling and braking on both dry and wet surfaces,” the tiremaker said. The Vredestein Sportrac 5 is the successor of the Sportrac 3, and “offers excellent handling on both wet and dry surfaces,” the company said.