Aftermarket June 2022

Above: Hunter RX45K wheel alignment lift the weight is more sporadic, it might be worth considering the asymmetrical choice.” There are also specific adapters available for these lifts, which lock onto a vehicle’s chassis, as Nick, explained: “A Ford Transit, for example, features a sill that is cosmetic, therefore, the arms will go underneath the sill. The rubber foot, which connects to the sill normally, will need to be pulled out, then the user will need to put a 200mm sleeve in, push the foot back, and that will then connect to the chassis without coming into contact with the sill.” Support According to MAHA UK Managing Director, Neil Ebbs, as a manufacturer of its own workshop equipment, MAHA UK is best-placed to maintain its own equipment: “MAHA UK calibrates the equipment at the point of installation and concludes the deal with a two-year warranty. It also offers the customer an additional three years extended warranty, essentially covering the equipment for five years all in, which includes original, like-for-like parts and labour.” Neil added: “It’s peace of mind for the customer, that’s the key to this. They will know where they stand in terms of how much they’ve got to pay every month, so, in the unlikely event there is a problem, they know one of our trained engineers will pay them a visit as quickly as possible. It’s that simple.” For more information, visit: www.maha.co.uk/en/products/lifting -technology/two-post-lift~t2410 Critical element Having the right lift is also vital for garages looking to capitalise on the wheel alignment opportunity, as Pro- Align CEO Clive Seabrook observed: “Workshops looking to create the most efficient and profitable wheel alignment service often solely focus on the aligner, overlooking a critical element; the lift. However, choosing the correct lift for your system can make a significant difference to your workshop’s efficiency, productivity, and profit levels. “When choosing a lift, workshops need to consider factors including size, capacity, maximum height and overall working range, but it is also important to consider the integration between the aligner and the lift itself. Optimal lift and aligner integration can save technicians significant amounts of time on every single job. By making these efficiency savings, not only is the labour cost per alignment job reduced, but more jobs can be accommodated per lift per day, presenting a further revenue generation opportunity.” Profitability perspective With this in mind, Hunter has developed its top of the range RX45K wheel alignment lift, exclusively distributed across the UK by Pro-Align. Clive commented: “The RX45K is a strong and heavy-duty scissor lift, designed with maximum integration in mind, while having the durability and longevity to withstand the busiest workshop environment. “Utilising Hunter’s fully integrated alignment concept, the RX45K drastically reduces the number of trips technicians are required to take around during the vehicle during an alignment check from eight to three. Additionally, tyres can be automatically inflated to the correct pressures using the integrated inflation station on each corner. Turnplates and slip plates are also automatically locked and unlocked at the appropriate time of the alignment check, not only protecting the lift from damage, but saving valuable time. “Constructed from the highest- grade steel, the RX45K has the capability of lifting light commercial vehicles up to 4536kg. The fitted safety locks with precision-fit teeth, lock runways at 16 different height positions for maximum technician comfort, while securing ramp levels and instantly shutting down the system in the event of sensor obstruction or hydraulic failure, ensuring safety and giving technicians peace of mind. Additionally, the system features a fast descent speed, typically cutting the lowering times in half when compared to other lift systems. Indeed, the RX45K has been designed for all types of workshops, and can be installed either as a surface mount with minimal surface clearance or flush within a recess ensuring the best fit for your workshop.” Clive added: “From a profitability perspective, busy workshops need the correct equipment to be able to identify a paying job, and with profit margins of up to 88% for wheel alignment servicing, investing in Hunter equipment is a fantastic way for your business to take advantage of these opportunities rolling into your workshop, regardless of what they have been booked in for.” For more information, visit www.pro-align.co.uk JUNE 2022 AFTERMARKET 53 Below: The electric and hybrid vehicle battery lift from Snap-on