BendPak Inc. has expanded its Ranger line with the introduction of the R980DP tire changer.
According to officials, this is the first Ranger swing-arm tire changer with two power assist arms, plus a new bead roller. The machine can handle low-profile tires, run-flat tires and high-performance tires as well as oversized truck wheels and off-road assemblies.
“As the technician population continues to age, and the shortage gets worse, Ranger is dedicated to developing equipment like the R980DP tire changer to reduce physical strain on techs while helping to improve their efficiency and shop throughput,” says Dave Wiederschall, sales manager, national accounts at BendPak.
“It’s virtually impossible for most technicians to quickly change modern low-profile tires without help — either from a power-assist device or another tech. The Ranger R980DP tire changer’s two pneumatic assist arms give technicians the power boost they need to effortlessly handle the most demanding jobs.”
The R980DP’s right-side assist arm features a new bead roller to do the work of pressing down stiff beads to create room for the tire iron when demounting, as well as keeping beads below the beak of the toolhead when mounting.
The left-side articulating arm is equipped with a multi-function bird-shaped head that serves primarily as a traveling drop-center tool designed to accommodate a wide range of wheel edge profiles. It can also be used as tire hook, lending a helping hand to maneuver heavy or stubborn tires during service. Slide on the hold-down-head accessory to facilitate outside clamping on low-profile tire/wheel combos or to act as a safety restraint device during inflation, according to BendPak officials.
Built-in features on the R980DP include Ranger’s TurboBlast Bead Seating System and the brand’s exclusive Bead Breaker Auto Assist device. And, for added versatility and protection, No-Mar RimGuard wheel clamps securely accommodate wheels from nine to 30 inches without damaging delicate finishes.
The R980DP and R980DP-L are available as stand-alone equipment purchases or with the new Ranger Select package that includes professional installation and training.