A look at the must-have tools for 2010.
LOW-PROFILE IMPACTOOLS
Ingersoll Rand has launched the new 2015MAX and 2025MAX Hammerhead low-profile Impactools™. The tool is designed for optimal performance, even in extremely confined spaces, the company states. With the power and speed of an impact and the reach of a ratchet, the Hammerhead features a head-height less than 2 inches, 180 foot-pounds of max torque and 7,100 rpm of speed. In addition to this combination of access and power, the Hammerhead also features a conveniently located forward/reverse collar, providing unrestricted access to easily change the direction of the tool in tight spaces. Knuckle-saver reactionless torque eliminates kickback. http://www.ingersollrandproducts.com/ANGLE GRINDERS
Two new high-performance angle grinders, the 3445MAX and the 345MAX, are now on the market from Ingersoll Rand. The new angle grinders come in 4.5-inch (3445MAX) and 5-inch (345MAX) versions. Both feature a speed of 12,000 rpm generated by a 10 percent increase in horsepower over the original 3445 tool, according to the company. The tools' motor horsepower has been increased to .88 hp, and a unique internal governor protects the operator while providing precision operation. The weight of the tool has also been decreased by half a pound to 3.5 pounds, and new grip design increase operator comfort, enabling extended usage without fatigue. http://www.ingersollrandproducts.com/RATCHETS
Ingersoll Rand now has a new line of standard ratchets with the release of the 1207MAX-D3 ⅜-inch ratchet and 1207MAX-D4 ½-inch ratchet. The 1207MAX features patent-pending technology, including the industry's first collar design for forward/reverse control. Technicians can adjust the direction by simply rotating the collar between the head and the grip. It delivers what the company refers to as a best-in-class 65 foot-pounds of torque and 200 rpm for an optimal torque-to-speed ratio. In addition to the unique collar design, the tool also provides 360-degree exhaust with an integrated muffler and swivel air inlet, which combine to enable comfortable work from any angle. http://www.ingersollrandproducts.com/ALIGNERS
The X-631 Aligner is easy to use and is the first plug and play aligner sold in the U.S., according to Launch Tech USA. With two skill levels coming standard with the X-631, any technician, once proficient with the system, can switch from learner mode to expert, thus reducing alignment time. If you already have an aligner and are looking to update, you will love the ease of use, accuracy and level of information that the X-631 provides, Launch adds. http://www.launchtechequipment.com/SCAN TOOLS
No other scan tool on the market today offers OEM-Level capability and Bluetooth wireless OBD communication in a Windows CE, PDA-sized platform, making the Diagun the most unique Scan Tool on the planet, Launch Tech USA says. Access virtually all modules and perform bi-directional tests and module coding on Asian, European and domestic vehicles. Need to electronically retract calipers or EPBs? Relearn throttle-bodies or immobilizers? Perform oil/service interval resets? The Diagun Full Version has you covered. http://www.launchtechequipment.com/FUEL INJECTOR CLEANER/TESTER
Launch has introduced what it reports is its latest class-leading fuel injector cleaner and tester, the CNC-601A. Features of the CNC-601A include ultrasonic cleaning, uniformity/sprayability testing, leakage testing and injection flow testing. It also features auto simulation testing and on-vehicle cleaning. http://www.launchtechequipment.com/DIAGNOSTIC TOOLS
Innovative Products of America announces the release of the Pulsar, designed to easily troubleshoot and diagnose automotive wiring problems. The Pulsar connects directly to the fuse box and safely pulses DC current into a circuit, allowing the technician to diagnose faulty connections, according to the company. The Pulsar combines four unique features in an easy-to-use hand tool: power pulse, parasitic draw, current-limiter and AMP reader. Technicians also can connect to a DC power source for bench testing. The Pulsar allows the technician to dial in the desired current rating while safely monitoring and protecting the circuit's condition. The large digital display reads up to 50 AMPS with a 0.1 resolution. http://www.ipatools.com/LIGHTING TESTERS
Innovative Products of America introduces a new line of portable battery powered Trailer Testers for testing lights and electric brakes on a wide range of trailers. The Mini-MUTT No. 9003 is an analog tester for 4-, 5-, 6 -and 7-pin light-duty trailers featuring short-circuit protection and amperage readout. The Smart-MUTT series No. 9004 and No. 9007 offer advanced diagnostic testing capabilities. The technician can easily diagnose short circuits, open and crossed circuits, poor grounds and test electric brakes, all by remote control, the manufacturer notes. Designed to fit your budget, these Trailer Testers eliminate guess work and keep your fleet on the road. All models include rechargeable batteries and charger. http://www.ipatools.com/BORE BRUSH SETS
The New XL Bore Brushes now are available from Innovative Products of America (IPA). For the first time for the automotive technician, these extra large Bore Brushes come in either brass or stainless steel in 25mm, 30mm, 35mm and 40mm diameter sizes. The overall length is 3.5 inches including the ¼-inch drive shank. They are available individually or in a four-piece sets (brass or stainless steel). IPA reports that the XL Bore Brushes can be attached to a ¼-inch driver or low-speed gun to remove debris from throttle bodies, brake calipers, engine components and more. The brushes also work with IPA's Flexible Extension Set (No. 8004) to access into hard-to-reach areas. http://www.ipatools.com/WASTE OIL FIRED HEATER
The MXD-300 is a ductable waste oil furnace that produces 300,000 BTU, enough power to heat even the largest shops. All Lanair heaters are made in the U.S. and feature a heavy-duty steel structure with a galvanized cabinet for a rust-free, durable and quiet performance, the company states. The MXD-300 has the heating capacity of the popular MX-300 model while also being a ductable unit, allowing you to run powerful heat directly where you want it most. Lanair Waste Oil Heaters are available in several value package options, and the company says its in-house team can walk you though a custom package to meet any special needs your shop might have. Lanair Heaters are UL listed, and burning used oil in a Lanair Heater is an EPA approved method of reducing your used oil disposal costs and liability. http://www.lanair.com/EVAPORATIVE COOLERS
Lanaircool Evaporative Cooling Systems are stainless steel ultra-mobile spot coolers providing cooling with something we can all respect: water. Evaporative coolers use a quarter of the electricity of refrigerated units, and help slightly raise the humidity levels of the air they cool, making for a much more comfortable work environment, the company states. In dryer places, a Lanaircool evaporative cooler can prove to be priceless, it adds. http://www.lanair.com/BALL JOINT KITS
OTC, an SPX® brand, has introduced its new Ball Joint Master Service Kits (P/N 6529 and P/N 6539), specifically designed to offer professional technicians complete capability to service ball joints and other general pressing operations on car and light truck vehicle systems up to 2008. Consisting of more than 50 adapters of various sizes and a comprehensive 290-page applications guide, the 6529 Car Ball Joint Master Service Kit and 6539 Truck/Van/SUV Ball Joint Master Service Kit are manufactured to fit precise OEM applications in order to give technicians the versatility needed for the job, while offering unmatched mechanical strength and durability when compared to the competition, the company states. http://www.otctools.com/DIAGNOSTIC KITS
OTC, an SPX® brand, has kicked off a promotional campaign for its popular Pegisys Diagnostic System. The promotion includes a special $300 cash back offer from OTC on purchase of a qualifying Pegisys 3825J or Pegisys 3825JT Kit. Customers who purchase one qualifying product from any participating reseller during the promotion period — effective May 1, 2010 through Dec. 31, 2010 — will receive a rebate coupon to fill out and mail back to SPX while supplies last. Qualifying customers in the United States and Canada will receive a $300 cash card from SPX. http://www.otctools.com/Latest in Operations
Latest in Operations