#SEMA/GTE: Hunter Shows New, Enhanced Products

Hunter Engineering introduced new products, as well as enhancements to existing products, at this week’s SEMA Show/Global Tire Expo (booth #41029).

New products include:

• The HawkEye Elite is an enhanced aligner console handheld remote that features an integrated flashlight and numeric keypad to increase functionality. The unit, which Hunter said allows technicians to easily enter mileage and other numeric data into the alignment system without requiring them to return to the console, presents results in 90 seconds using four precision cameras to measure the position and orientation of targets mounted to each wheel. Hunter’s patented QuickGrip adaptors and 3-D targets eliminate metal-to-metal contact, reducing risk of wheel damage.

• The Auto34S tire changer features a space saving, functional design and an air powered, push-button control that operates all diameter functions from a single point. The new memory button feature saves the tire diameter setting and returns the mount head to the same spot until reset, saving the operator effort when changing sets of matching tires, according to Hunter. An improved press head allows for better grip on all tires, especially extreme low profile tires. A lighter quick clamp improves clamping ease.

Hunter also showed enhancements to its WinAlign consoles, which now can be viewed and operated remotely from any mobile device, making the aligner console more convenient and flexible than ever, according to the company. Using the Splashtop remote desktop application, Hunter aligner consoles can be accessed and operated on mobile devices when the screen is not visible to service technicians.

The company also announced updates to its Revolution fully automatic tire changer and Quick Check battery tester.

In addition to new rollouts and product enhancements, Hunter displayed a heavy-duty mobile on-site service truck that demonstrates a way to utilize Hunter’s wide range of equipment to provide heavy-duty mobile service. The mobile service vehicle allows shops to provide unmatched convenience to consumers and inspect and service entire fleets in a single visit, according to Hunter, which added that service shops can separate themselves from competitors by bringing services like inspection, alignment and changing and balancing tires to their heavy-duty consumers.

McCarthy Tire Service recently opened a new in-house commercial wheel refinishing facility. According to the company, the facility has the ability to refinish over 1,000 wheels per day and technicians will utilize equipment for inspection, surface preparation, pre-treatment, and automated coating techniques at the facility.

“We're thrilled to unveil this wheel refinishing facility,” John McCarthy Jr., president of McCarthy Tire Service said. “This investment reflects our dedication to providing our customers with unparalleled efficiency and a one-stop shop for all their commercial tire and wheel needs. By streamlining the refinishing process, we can help fleets minimize downtime and maximize productivity.”