High-quality car repairs in hard-to-reach places almost always require the installation of mounting stands. These are quite massive structures on which the whole machine or its individual parts can be placed. On a work platform suitable in design, the part will be more accessible for the master, which will allow for more convenient and efficient repair work. To update the wheels, tire changers are intended as a variation of the aforementioned stands. There are various designs and formats for the release of such equipment.
Characteristics of tire stands
The unit is a small platform on which dismantling measures are implemented. As a power support, the stand can use both an electrical outlet and compressed air. As the typical manual of the tire changer notes, in the second variant it is desirable that the compressor installation is not oil. This will save the air niches of the wheels from particles of oil and small abrasives. At the same time, the pressure level of the machine itself should slightly exceed the compressor potential.
Of course, the size of the wheels with which the stand can work also matters. But in this case, the difference is quite simple - the format can be either larger or less than 37 inches. That is, the division occurs according to the wheels belonging to the segment of cars or trucks. Only in rare cases, deviations from this rule are possible when it comes to subcompact or special equipment. This is what concerns the diameter, but the widths are different. So, tire fitting machines for cars can work with a standard size of 12-15 inches, and trucks serve 45-inch counterparts.
Automatic and semi-automatic designs
The simplest mechanisms for tire fitting are manual installations, but large manufacturers have long abandoned them in favor of more convenient and productive models with varying degrees of automatism. In fact, semi-automatic systems, in which support for mechanics is provided, became an intermediate link. However, the control actions are still performed by the user. The operator must manually press the shaft while lowering the foot. Thus, the installation site is rotated.
The most noticeable are the high demands on physical effort if semi-automatic tire changers for large vehicles are used. Automatic models, however, eliminate such problems, making it easy to serve not only cars with small trucks, but also trucks with buses. Such units are more often used in equipping automobile workshops, service centers, etc.
Features of stands for cars
Such models are designed for mobility, simple organization of energy supply and, of course, a small size of the wheels - up to 24 inches. Automatic installations are equipped with an electric motor that runs on a single-phase network. The convenience of this solution is that the user can connect the stand not only to the mains, but also to the generator. That is, it will be possible to carry out repair work in the removal. Also, “light” tire fitting machines as a power mechanism are supplied not with pneumatic systems, but with an electro-hydraulic drive. This eliminates the need for additional organization of the compressor, but it will have to prepare for the large costs of electricity. In kits with such stands, linings for clamping cams, a grease container, a blade, a tire inflation gun and other devices are usually provided.
Features of stands for trucks
On truck stands, the wheels are arranged on the table not horizontally, but vertically. Moreover, they are held by a special clamp with four clamps. The functions of the power organs in such machines are given special attention. Not only in terms of ergonomics, but also in terms of reliability. Depending on the type of wheel, the master has the ability to fine-tune the holders. You can service chamber and tubeless tires, as well as models with a locking system.
Choosing a tire changer for trucks should be based on the load. Since the wheels differ from the trucks in large masses, the corresponding effort is applied - about 1.2-1.5 tons. Moreover, the work process itself is not always safe, therefore, remote control is provided in modern models of such stands. Special remotes and controllers are installed on the working platform and connected to the machine mechanisms with removal.
How to make a do-it-yourself tire changer?
It must be emphasized right away that it is advisable to focus on models of a manual type, since they are simpler and safer to operate. Three main components will be required: a frame, a vertical riser, and a piece of metal pipe. As a frame, you can take two profile rectangular pipes that are parallel to each other. They should be connected by a steel corner. Next, a vertical strut is attached to the frame, which will perform two functions: a supporting base with fastening and providing a place for fixing the wheel. Then, a handle is introduced into the structure, which will allow to drive the tire changer. With your own hands, you can weld a handle on the basis of a pipe segment to a ready-made structure at this time.
Conclusion
Like any garage equipment, tire stands regularly need technical support. Therefore, you can count on the long-term operation of the structure only if properly maintained. You should also prepare for minor technical issues. Home repair of tire machines, for example, may be associated with violations in the hydraulic mechanism or electromechanics. The power base rarely breaks, but even in this part defects may occur at the junctions of the functional parts. To prevent unpleasant nuances of using such equipment, regular lubrication of the rubbing mechanisms and the correct handling of technological control and management units will help.