Be sure your vehicle is ready to hit the road

Summer is here, and for many of you this means vacation time.

If last week's temperatures and humidity are any indication of how hot our summer is going to be, then we should make some preparations to our vehicles in an effort to prevent a breakdown during summertime.

The following is a list of recommended vehicle safety checks you should perform before setting out on a long drive.

Cooling system: Ensure your vehicle's cooling system has been flushed and coolant level is adequate to keep the vehicle's engine from overheating during a long summer drive.

Examine all belts and hoses for cracks or leaks, replacing any you may have doubts about.

Don't forget tools and water to accomplish a change if necessary.

Don't overlook the radiator, which should be properly filled with coolant, and while driving, keep a close eye on the temperature gauge; shut off the air conditioner if the engine heat creeps too high.

Tires: Make sure all the vehicle's tires have plenty of tread and are properly inflated. Don't forget about the spare and make sure your jack and tire changing tools are in good condition.

Extreme heat can take its toll, not only on worn or old tires, but new ones as well.

If your tires are showing irregular wear patterns, the wheels may need to be realigned or rotated.

Electrical system: Check all lighting equipment, making sure it is in good operating condition. Take a close look at the battery. Ensure the cables are tight and appropriate fluids are filled to the proper level.

Don't forget your windshield wipers in case you get caught in a sudden storm.

Fluid levels: If it's been awhile since the vehicle's oil has been changed, it's important to take care of it before going on a trip. Check your transmission, power steering, brake and washer fluids, as well as checking for leaks. If any leaks are found, the vehicle should be serviced before it is driven for a considerable distance.

Air conditioner: Children, seniors and some adults can be sensitive to heat. To keep them cool and safe during your summer drives, it is important to make sure that your vehicle's air conditioning system is functioning properly.

Your Auto Shop Needs A New Tire Changer | VFW Motorcycle Group

Tire changers are machines used to help mechanics and tire technicians dismount and mount tires with most kinds of wheels. After the wheel and tire assembly are removed from the vehicle, the tire changer has all the components necessary to remove and replace the tire from the wheel. Different types of tire changers allow technicians to replace tires on automobiles, motorcycles and heavy-duty trucks. New tire and wheel technology have improved the newer tire changers to be able to change a low profile tire or a run-flat tire.

Professional Tire Changers are an essential part of any mechanic’s business. How do you know which model is right for your garage? You should have a list of specific details you want in your new tire changer, especially one with versatility.. Check out the benefits of purchasing your next tire changer from a professional automotive equipment specialist with a large selection to choose from. Our newest model specifics are below:

Ranger tire changers are the essential center-pieces of every well-run garage. With exclusive tire changing features from Ranger, the once dreaded chore of changing a tire is easier than ever. Our state-of-the-art technology and advanced features make tire changing one of the quickest and most profitable services that you can offer a client.

Some of Ranger’s exciting innovations include a helpful drop-center top mount arm that firmly holds the tire in place during rotation, a pneumatic wheel restraint device to keep a wheel locked into place, power-assist upper bead rollers that assist in bead breaking and setting, one of the largest wheel-clamping ranges in the industry, power-assist mounting towers for even more versatility and an overall superior design that’s meant to last and last.

Other innovations include tilt-back towers for increased clearance, large bead-breaking blades, powerful hi-torque turntables, jet-blast pistol inflation gauge with air dump valve, as well as a fully-adjustable tool bar. All of this comes packed in an easy-to-use, free-standing console that’s as safe as it is efficient.

The Ranger R745 is the perfect no-frills tire changer for entry level tire and wheel service. The R745 allows you to service most all OEM and specialty tires and wheels up to 21″ with convenient up-front foot pedals that give you precise control during all wheel service procedures. The R745 comes standard with a wheel protection kit that includes a durable nylon bead breaker cover, wheel clamp guards, tool head guards, and tire tool protector to help prevent metal-to-metal contact and costly wheel damage.

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