MAHA UK helps workshops lift game on wheel alignment
Workshop equipment specialist, MAHA UK, has identified its popular Duo CM scissor lift as an ideal starting point for workshops looking to offer tyre and wheel alignment services for lighter commercial vehicles in order to strengthen their offering.
The lift is available in several specifications; for example, the ‘U’ model is designed as an in-ground lift, while the ‘A’ is for above ground. 4.2-tonne or 5.5-tonne capacity versions are offered; both are delivered in grey as standard, but customers are able to choose an alternative colour scheme to either complement their own livery or comply with a manufacturer’s dealership CI requirements.
MAHA UK says its scissor lifts are robust and designed for a regular throughput of vehicles, while an integrated maintenance-free displacement measurement sensor (absolute linear measurement system) offers perfect synchronisation of the platforms.
Regarding accessories for the task, MAHA UK Workshop Equipment Specialist, Louis Tunmore, explained: “Typically, we’ll specify a wheel-free jack, which will lift all four wheels off the platform simultaneously. This would allow the technician to lower the vehicle onto sliding plates and turn-plates without any load in the suspension components.
“The technician could also lower the vehicle onto a set of corner-weight scales, to conduct a precise ‘set-up’ of the vehicle they’re working on.
“We also advise installing LED illumination for under the vehicle, so the technician can see the components without wearing a head torch, holding a torch or placing a lamp under the vehicle – it helps both safety and efficiency.
“Mechanical locks also ensure the vehicle is secured into an exactly level position – absolute precision!”
Louis referred to the compensated sliding plates, which guarantee the platform is level, regardless of what accessories are fitted to the lift.
“Often, technicians prefer the longer sliding plates (1,465mm long as opposed to 1,060mm) because they then don’t have to change or move anything to cater the needs of different length vehicles,” he said.
“For an in-ground installation specifically, there is the option of automatic roll-off protection. Instead of having ‘flaps’ at the end of the lift that hinge up as the lift comes out of the ground, the lift has an automatic vertical rising end-stop that comes up.
“When the lift goes all the way down, the plate lowers, and the vehicle can roll on and off. This feature enables the entire length of the platform to be utilised.”
Wheel alignment is an important part of vehicle maintenance, says MAHA UK; suspension geometry needs to be set correctly, according to the vehicle manufacturer’s specification, which will help the tyres last longer, improve fuel economy and ensure a better/ safer drive.
But where this premium, specialised piece of equipment comes into its own is if the workshop welcomes a vehicle that has been in a collision and requires mechanical work. Louis said: “If a vehicle has experienced an impact and the technician then replaces a suspension component, for example, the insurance company or the end-customer will want to see ‘all green ticks’ on the end of their wheel alignment report.
“What’s more, staying with suspension repairs or even suspension tuning/lowering, that may change the attitude and geometry of the vehicle. In that case, a lift is going to be vital in supporting the technician in confirming accurate wheel alignment.”
