Different Types of Tire Changers and Benefits

A major part of any auto workshop’s responsibilities is changing tires. The quicker you can change them, the better. Investing in a tire-changing machine is a great way to get more business. However, there are several different types of tire-changing machines. You need to know what each type does and how it can help you. This guide will walk you through the various devices to help you choose the right one for your workshop.

Purpose of Tire Changers and Why Finding A Good One Matters

Tire-changing machines are a fantastic investment for any auto workshop. They save time, increase productivity and reduce the pressure on your technicians. The tire changer you choose needs to accomplish the right tasks. For example, a changer specializing in heavy-duty tires is not as useful for changing the tires of a small car. You need to understand the use case of the different types of equipment and how to optimize them.

Some devices require additional training to operate properly. Having an inexperienced mechanic or a technician who doesn’t know how to operate it will reduce productivity rather than improve it.

Types of Tire Changers

There are several different types of tire changers you can look at. They range in what they can do, speed, efficiency, automation and use case. Some are better for working on heavy tires, and others for cars. These are the best options to consider for your auto workshop:

Swing Arm

A swing arm tire changer is a popular choice in most auto workshops. They are affordable and user-friendly, making them an appealing first choice. These changers feature an adjustable tabletop and four tabletop jaws, making it easier to clamp the wheel. This tire-mounting changer is semi-automatic. Its head needs to be unscrewed manually. However, this allows it to fit perfectly with different tires up to 50 inches in diameter. One size fits all with this piece of equipment.

This is an ideal changer to choose if you typically work with the same size tire. How it works and is laid out makes it possible for an experienced mechanic to quickly and seamlessly change a tire. The biggest drawback to this option is the time-consuming process of continuously taking the head off for a different tire size every time you use it.

The right swing arm changer can make all the difference. If your workshop works on general services for original equipment manufacturers (OEM) or custom fitments, then the SM825 EVOPA is a great investment option. It’s durable, has all the basic features and is designed for mid-volume use.

If your workshop sees on/off the road, light commercial trucks and low-profile wheels, the SM628 BPS is a smart choice. It is a robust appliance capable of handling a high-use volume and larger wheels.

Leverless

Leverless tire changers are premium quality machines worth the higher asking price. They provide a risk-free experience and have automated functions to set heavy tires. Leverless changers are entirely automatic. They can easily lift and set heavy tires by themselves, thanks to their integrated wheel lift. This saves mechanics time and energy by not manually moving large and heavy tires.

The leverless changer is best suited for changing flat and ultra-high-performance tires. If you are considering this tool, ensure you have at least one technician to operate it properly. They will require some training to learn how to use it correctly. Training is included on purchase by most manufacturers.

The SM1100 leverless tire changer can be used for a broad range of applications. From everyday tires to those of light commercial trucks, this is a fast and efficient option to consider.

Tilt-Back

The tilt-back tire changer is a reliable alternative to the swing arm. They are faster, intuitive and well-suited for mechanics with less experience. The price of a tilt-back is higher compared to swing arms, but their design and user-friendliness make up for that. The hangers of this changer operate on a tower that tilts back to fit larger tires. Then it moves back into place. It adjusts to different sizes at the press of a button.

With intuitive safety features, this machine is faster, safer and easier to operate than most others. If you are looking for a high-performance tilt-back tire changer, the SM645 will give you everything you need.

Heavy-Duty

Heavy-duty tire changers work on heavy trucks, tractors and construction equipment. They are designed to work with tires with diameters of up to 90 inches and a width of 42 inches. The size factors into the price tag of this machine, but when dealing with large, specialized tires, it is your best option.

The SM56T is ideal for heavy-duty and tubeless tires. It has a self-centering four-jaw clamp system that can also be used as a wheel lift. It operates via an easy-to-use handheld control unit.

What to Consider When Buying a Tire Changer

Every auto shop can benefit from the right tire changer — but which one is best suited for your typical workday? These are the most important factors to consider before deciding which type of tire changer is right for you:

• What to look for: Your tire changer should serve a specific purpose. Whether it’s to reduce workloads, improve efficiency or give you more job options, you need to make sure your choice will be able to do so.
• Return on investment: More than just achieving a particular purpose, your tire-changing machine also needs to make you money. Evaluate how much extra business a changer will get you and how long it will take to pay itself off.
• Energy usage: A regular changer will use between 25 and 30 amp breakers when changing a tire. Changing machines come in 110V and 220V versions.
• Technician training: Some tire changer models might require more training to operate than others. Schedule time in your operations to instruct all technicians on the proper usage and safety guidelines.

Find the Tire Changer You Need With CEMB-USA

CEMB-USA stocks the very best industrial and garage wheel service equipment. We have an extensive range of wheel changers, balancers and aligners. We have everything you need to change a tire. Our Italian-made machines are durable and made to meet the highest of standards.

CEMB-USA has a rich history in the wheel service industry, and our founder, Luigi Buzzi, designed the first-ever balancing machine. Browse our digital catalog of premium machines to find the tire-changing tools and equipment your workshop needs. You can also contact us to learn more about our products and how we can help you.