Premier Pits aids servicing with Thread Saver and BrakeMate
Recent additions to Premier Pits’ workshop equipment portfolio include Thread Saver, a new tool range for the repair of damaged wheel studs and axle threads.
Manufactured in the EU by Silbertool Solutions, Thread Saver allows workshops to become more efficient, says Premier Pits, saving both time and money.
“Thread repair tools have been in the market for many years, however tools like thread cutting dies and other products remove material during the process and weaken the thread,” the company said.
“Thread Saver is a precision-engineered tool designed to reform threads instead of cutting, allowing for efficient repair without losing any material during the process. By retaining the material, the thread maintains its strength and can withstand a consistent load capacity after restoration.
“Thread Saver has been rigorously tested, and The Material Testing Institute Hannover (MPA) has proven that threads repaired with Thread Saver were able to withstand the same static and dynamic loads as a new undamaged thread. Moreover, they even had a higher fatigue endurance limit.”
The initial cost of Thread Saver is recouped quickly, claims the firm, as the tool negates the need for axles being sent away for repair and studs being replaced. Meanwhile, time is saved by not having to strip down the hub, with stud repairs in as little as 31 seconds.
Thread Saver comes in kit form, complete with the Thread Saver XR-120 for axles (with 1.5mm and 1.5mm LH, 2.0mm and 12 TPI roller sets), and the X-Nut XL for use on wheel studs.
Key features cited include durable construction; the product is made from premium-grade stainless steel that is vacuum hardened and tempered to 58 HRC in hydrogen atmosphere.
“This process not only guarantees low wear, but also high ductility,” said Premier Pits.
“The Thread Saver is built to withstand rigorous use and provide long-lasting durability.
“Each tool is meticulously crafted to deliver precise, accurate thread repair, restoring threads to their original specifications.”
The company also highlights the versatility of Thread Saver, which is suitable for use on a wide range of thread types and sizes, including metric and imperial standards – making it ideal for the commercial vehicle and PSV industries as well as for rail applications.
“The ergonomic design ensures ease of use, allowing both professionals and DIY enthusiasts to achieve perfect results with minimal effort. Lightweight and compact, these tools are easy to transport and store, making them a convenient addition to any toolbox or workshop.”
Safety is also enhanced, it adds: “Secure, properly repaired threads help prevent accidents and equipment failure. After the repair, the thread is as resilient as a new thread.”
Premier Pits reports that the first Thread Saver unit was delivered to a bus operator, which saved nearly £10,000 using the tool on an axle thread repair.
The company is also the UK’s official supplier of BrakeMate, an elevated service platform for working on heavy vehicle disc brake assemblies. It avoids the need for manual lifting of the caliper and hub, making the process safer for technicians, as well as significantly reducing the time required for brake disc maintenance.
“BrakeMate is made in Melbourne Australia by Tulip Corp, who have been producing engineering products for 75 years,” said Premier Pits.
“BrakeMate saves one hour in the time it takes to change a single disc. It also allows a single user to do the whole job, instead of needing two people. This means other tasks can be done more quickly, leading to further time savings.
“The brake disc assembly on heavy commercial vehicles, buses and coaches can weigh as much as 70kg, much more than the 25kg limit suggested by HSE. Lifting such weights can often cause injuries that are not only painful for the worker but also costly for employers through lost time and compensation claims.”
The system consists of two trolley based work platforms, explains the firm.
“First, using the adjustable clamp mechanism, the calliper, which can weigh up to 30kg, is easily taken off and stored on the platform for later reassembly. The clamp can be used on callipers located in the 3, 9 and 12 o’clock positions and an adaptor is also provided for callipers in the 6 o’clock position.
“After the calliper is taken off, the disc/hub trolley is moved into place and attached to the studs. Adapter plates enable connection with common 8 and 10 stub patterns. A manual hydraulic ram detaches the hub assembly from the vehicle which lets the user feel the force being used.
“Once removed, the two trolleys are then joined together to make a finished workstation to separate the disc from the hub. The old disc is rolled onto the built-in rotor rack which is turned 180 degrees to let the new disc be moved into place. The process of removal is reversed and the unit is easily, safely and correctly installed on the vehicle.”
