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Wireless Automotive Digital Multimeter
Fuse Buddy Current Loop
Y-Lift
Leverless
Rim Clamp
Tire Changer
20
1105MAX and 105 Series Ratchets
May 2010
NEW WEAPONS FOR YOUR
TOOL & EQUIPMENT
ARSENAL
Flex-Hone for Rotors
BY KARL SEYFERT
A
wide range of new automotive tools and shop equipment
is introduced every year. Dipping a tablespoon into a fastmoving stream, this article
highlights several new offerings that feature commendable innovation—
powerful additions to your tool and equipment arsenal. They range from the simple to
the complex and from modestly priced technicians’ hand tools to major purchases that
would typically be made by a shop owner. All
have at least one thing in common: They give
the automotive technician the opportunity to
work smarter with enhanced productivity.
3D Alignment System
Photoillustration: Harold A. Perry; background images: Thinkstock
3D Alignment System
by Bosch Diagnostics
The FWA 4630 Easy 3D Alignment System
determines wheel alignment measurements
via stereoscopic triangulation. The system
contains two portable camera pods mounted
on an alignment rack with “electronics-free”
measurement boards attached to each wheel,
operating at a 27Hz update rate, or 27 updates per second. Easy 3D dedicates two
cameras to each measurement board for
stereoscopic vision of each wheel and an additional two cameras focused under the vehicle, allowing the system to triangulate the position of the wheels in relation to the camera
pods. Measurement boards at the wheels and
camera pods made from expanded
polypropylene with internal suspension
damping, contribute to low weight, ease of
handling and drop resistance.
All imaging-based alignment systems require some form of compensation procedure
to account for wheel runout and measurement of the clamps and boards attached to
the wheels. With Easy 3D, the technician
may sit in the driver’s seat and complete the
entire compensation and alignment measurement process in a few minutes. A running engine does not affect system operation or measurement accuracy. The technician no longer
has to push and pull larger vehicles during
the compensation process.
Stereoscopic triangulation eliminates the
need for calibration during installation, and
provides precise measurements that can be
repeated even if the camera pods are repositioned in the middle of the alignment
process. The system can be moved to different bays within the shop if more than one bay
is dedicated to alignment, or if there’s a need
to move the system to a different bay. Once
relocated, stereoscopic triangulation measures and synchronizes the camera pods to
the measurement boards at the new location.
The system can be used with many different
rack styles and can be used directly on the
shop floor for quick alignment audits.
Flex-Hone for Rotors
by Brush Research
Squeaks and groans are common brake system noise complaints that are often caused by
spiral grooves in the brake surface. The FlexHone for Rotors utilizes patented technology
to produce the ideal surface finish on brake
rotors, flywheels and clutch plates. The tool
creates a nondirectional finish while removing cut, torn and folded metal from the surface. The tool can be used on both new and
freshly resurfaced parts.
Fuse Buddy Current Loop
by Electronic Specialties
The Fuse Buddy Current Loop – Mini
(Part No. 307M) and Fuse Buddy Current
Loop – ATC (Part No. 308B) are designed
May 2010
21
YOUR TOOL & EQUIPMENT ARSENAL
to measure current at the fuse box. These
test adapters allow direct reading of live
circuit amperage using your existing current probe. They also provide a convenient
way to tap current waveforms for displaying
on your scope.
The ends of the Fuse Buddy Current
Loops are molded into the shape of a fuse.
During testing, the car fuse is removed and
inserted into the Fuse Buddy Current Loop.
The circuit being tested maintains fuse protection on circuits up to 30 amps. Current
measurements are taken by clamping a current probe around the loop portion of the
Fuse Buddy Current Loop. These adapters
can be used for parasitic drain testing, fuel
pumps, blower motors, shorts, etc.
Double-Jointed Ratchet
by E-Z RED
Every now and again you’ll run into a fastener
that seems impossible to reach with conventional tools. Faced with this situation, many
have resorted to heat to bend a sacrificial
wrench into the desired shape. Such drastic
actions may no longer be required. This 1⁄4-in.
drive double-jointed ratchet (Part No.
able. This includes calibration updates available as direct downloads from the TIS website
and access to quick-fix technical information
specific to Toyota/Lexus/Scion vehicles, pow-
ered by Identifix Direct-Hit. If your shop does
not do a large volume of Toyota repairs, you
may prefer to purchase the Toyota-specific
Mongoose MFC separately, then short-term
(two-day) subscriptions on an as-needed basis.
Coolant Catcher by High Tide
Coolant Catcher is a low-profile (53⁄4-in.),
chemically resistant plastic radiator drain pan
with a large surface area (31x25 in.). Its
unique baffle pad prevents splashing or
spillage when draining coolant. It also prevents spillage when the pan is moved and
catches dropped tools or parts for easy retrieval. A set of 360° swiveling casters allow
the drain pan to be positioned under most
cars or trucks without the need for a hoist or
jack stands. Integral handgrips and pour spout
The Techstream Lite Kit provides Toyota factory service information and diagnostics for
your shop. A J2534-based vehicle interface kit
for diagnosis and reprogramming, the kit includes a Part No. TSLITEAM01 Mongoose
MFC vehicle interface module (VIM) and a
one-year Professional Diagnostic TIS subscription to Toyota’s Techstream diagnostic
software and technical information. Any PC
that meets the Techstream Lite minimum PC
requirements can be used.
Short-term and long-term subscriptions to
the Technical Information System (TIS) site
and Techstream diagnostic software are avail-
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May 2010
The iScan II allows you to code engine
control modules and deal with immobilizer
issues. Quick Servicing access resets service
reminders on all makes that require a scan
tool, including European vehicles. Relearn
the throttle body after cleaning on drive-bywire systems used on Volkswagen, Audi and
Nissan vehicles.
INDUCTOR U-555
by Induction Innovations
Induction features the use of electricity to
create heat. Faster and safer than a torch, inductive heating instantly heats and removes
seized nuts, bearings, pulleys and other metal or mechanical hardware and parts from
corrosion and/or threadlock compounds
without the danger of an open flame or potential damage to nearby plastics. The INDUCTOR U-555 can be used with the com-
MR14DJ) provides that multiangle versatility
that allows you to shape the ratchet body to
access hard-to-reach areas. The ratchet head
has 72 teeth and the tool is covered by a lifetime warranty.
Techstream Lite
by Drew Technologies
to enter the VIN; simply select the make,
model and system along with the function.
Key features include the ability to diagnose engine, evap and emissions problems,
run evap bidirectional commands and tests
and force monitors to run. Reset steering angle sensors and perform calibrations when
doing any front end work, including alignments. Run diagnostics on climate control
systems and perform adaptations and calibrations on blend doors and vent flaps.
allow for easy emptying, and the low-profile
design allows it to be stored under a toolbox.
Laws governing the control of hazardous fluids
are becoming more stringent; Coolant Catcher
can help your shop remain in compliance.
iScan II Diagnostic Tool
by Autoland Scientech
The iScan II is an on-board diagnostic tool, a
PC interface and a pass-thru device all in one.
It enables you to read and clear codes, view
live data and perform service resets, coding,
programming, activations, adaptations and
more. Its proprietary automotive platform enables it to boot up quickly, and there’s no need
pany’s PROMAX and MAX models and
yields at least 40% more power for applications. The tool features an ergonomically designed, slip-resistant hand grip and an ultra
bright LED to illuminate the work area. It
YOUR TOOL & EQUIPMENT ARSENAL
can handle additional applications when used
with the optional coil kit.
The second generation of the company’s
hand-held induction tool, the MINI-DUCTOR II, has also been introduced. It and
its attachments can be used with the U555. Like the INDUCTOR U-555, the
1000-watt MINI-DUCTOR II features a
redesigned hand grip and LED work light.
strong domestic coverage (now including
Ford key programming), module coding,
OBD II test mode coverage, adaptive resets
and relearns, bidirectional controls, immobilizer systems, ECM/BCM resets, live graphing, an internal printer and more than 300
tool updates a year via the internet.
3.8L engine. Forged steel jaws, a hardened
center bolt and a live center tip protector
combine to provide a clean, even pull. An
adapter can also be purchased to allow the
CH3 to be used on 2.0 and 2.5L engines.
CatsPaw Lighted Magnifying
Safety Glasses by Mayhew Tools
Damper Pulley Puller
by Posi Lock Puller
The newly redesigned CH3 damper pulley
puller allows access in tight, hard-to-reach
areas and aids in the removal of the harmonic damper pulley without having to remove
the radiator on many Chrysler products, including 1990 and later vans with the 3.3L
engine and 1994 and later vans with the
This simple tool may save you a bunch of
aggravation. Grip-It Extension Grip Collars
fit friction-tight on 1⁄4-, 3⁄8- or 1⁄2-in. extensions
for a secure grip. This allows you to get
nuts and bolts started even if you’re using
greasy, slippery ratchet extensions, and
even in cold weather. Say goodbye to crossthreaded fasteners or dropped extensions.
Grip-It Collars are molded of a pliable,
It’s a wonder we were able to get anything
done before the LED. Perhaps you’ve
seen illuminated eyeglass frames or lights
mounted on headbands. And magnifying
visors have been around almost since the
beginnings of watch repair. CatsPaw lighted magnifying safety glasses (Part No.
45050) combine two directable LED lights
with 2X bifocal magnifying lenses, all in an
adjustable frame. These safety glasses offer
side protection, meet the ANSI Z87.1 standard and include UV protection.
X431 Master Scan Tool
by Launch Tech
The X431 Master incorporates all the features and benefits of previous X431 model
scan tools, with added speed. With multiple connectors incorporated into the
Smartbox, boot-up time, navigation within
the menus and overall performance are
now up to 30% faster.
The scan tool’s key features include
OEM-level European and Asian coverage,
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May 2010
Grip-It Extension Grip Collars
by Thexton Manufacturing
HOW TO GET ’EM
For more information on the tools and equipment featured in this article,
visit the websites listed here or circle the appropriate numbers on the
Product Information Page on page 64 of this issue.
Autoland Scientech
High Tide
www.autolandscientech.com www.coolantcatcher.com
Circle #125
Circle #132
Posi Lock Puller
www.posilock.com
Circle #139
Bosch Diagnostics
Hunter Engineering
Power Probe
wwwboschdiagnostics.com
Circle #126
www.hunter.com
Circle #133
www.powerprobe.com
Circle #140
Brush Research
Induction Innovations
Rotary Lift
www.brushresearch.com
Circle #127
www.theinductor.com
Circle #134
www.rotarylift.com
Circle #141
Drew Technologies
Ingersoll Rand
www.drewtech.com
Circle #128
www.irtools.com
Circle #135
SP Tools/Schley
Products
Electronic Specialties
Launch Tech
www.esitest.com
Circle #129
www.launchtechusa.com
Circle #136
www.sptool.com
Circle #142
Snap-on Tools
www.snapon.com
E-Z RED
Mayhew Tools
SPX/OTC
www.ezred.com
Circle #130
www.mayhew.com
Circle #137
www.otctools.com
Circle #143
Fluke Corp.
Nextech
Thexton Manufacturing
www.fluke.com
Circle #131
http://nex-tek.com/english/ www.thexton.com
Circle #138
Circle #144
YOUR TOOL & EQUIPMENT ARSENAL
chemical-resistant compound that provides
a firm, nonslip grip and are available in 1⁄4in. (Part No. 463-25), 3⁄8-in. (Part No. 46338) and 1⁄2-in. (Part No. 463-50) sizes.
Y-Lift by Rotary Lift
The U.S.-manufactured Y-Lift (Model No.
YA12) is a drive-on hinged lift with a 12,000lb. capacity that uses a patented design and Y-
shaped legs to provide faster rise/descent
speeds and greater vehicle access than traditional scissor lifts. The lift’s design also eliminates the restrictive scissor arms that get in
the way on scissor lifts, so technicians have full
vehicle access from side-to-side and front-torear, as well as 20% more overall work space.
The Y-Lift was designed for vehicle alignments and general service work. It can be
used for four-wheel alignments on wheelbases as short as 711⁄2 in. all the way up to 158 in.
long. The Y-Lift is compatible with all leading
alignment instrumentation, including new
3D and camera wheel alignment systems.
Although it somewhat resembles a parallelogram lift, the Y-Lift provides true vertical
movement. Its weight-sensing control system
maximizes rise speed based on the weight of
the vehicle being lifted. For most vehicles,
the rise time will be around 37 seconds,
which is at least 33% faster than comparable
scissor lifts. The Y-Lift also offers speedier
descent than many scissor lifts, so techs can
move on to the next job more quickly. The YLift has been third-party tested by ETL and
ALI-certified to meet ANSI/ALI ALCTV2006 safety standards.
Wireless Automotive Digital
Multimeter by Fluke Corp.
The Model 233/A Wireless Remote Display
Automotive Digital Multimeter Kit features a
detachable wireless display designed specifically for automotive troubleshooting. By sliding the display out of the meter body, the
technician can place it where it’s most easily
seen—up to 33 ft. (10 meters) from the point
of measurement—while putting the meter in
the best position to take measurements. The
low-power 2.4GHz ISM Band wireless signal
is resistant to electromagnetic interference
from ignition systems and other EMI
sources, and will not interfere with nearby
electronic devices. The radio transmitter automatically turns on when the display is removed from the meter and shuts off when
the display is reattached.
The removable display has a magnetic
back and flat bottom so it can be mounted
or placed on any flat surface where it can
be conveniently seen. When the display is
attached to the meter body, the tool operates as a conventional multimeter. The tool
features CAT III 1000V and CAT IV 600V
safety ratings, important for technicians
working on hybrid vehicles, which routinely use high-voltage, high-current systems
not found on conventional vehicles.
The 233/A kit includes a remote display
multimeter, test leads, alligator clips, a
thermocouple probe and automotive backprobe pins. It comes in a soft carry case
with a magnetic meter hanging strap. A
training DVD is also included.
Leverless Rim Clamp Tire
Changer by Hunter Engineering
Circle #16
26
May 2010
The TCX575 leverless rim clamp tire changer
combines traditional design elements with
advanced capabilities to service everything
from steel wheels to low-profile tires on
large-diameter rims. With the push of a button, the swing arm locks to preset wheel diameter and width positions to speed service
of same-size wheels. The twin-cylinder tabletop clamping system handles 12- to 30-in.
wheels and adjusts to two work positions. The
table design allows easy access to the bottom
bead while ensuring rigidity for large-diameter wheels.
The 110V/220V motor and two-speed
drive system operates at a low speed with increased torque to prevent damage to wheels
and tire beads when servicing tough combinations. The faster speed can be used for less
difficult assemblies. The leverless tool head
operates with one switch to smoothly and effortlessly insert itself and lift the bead over
the rim edge. The elimination of bead levers
reduces operator stress and prevents potential damage to beads and rims.
The Bead Press System includes multiple
pressing arms and a locking lower roller disc
arm to aid in clamping, lubricating, demounting and mounting difficult wheels.
The wheel press arms simplify external
clamping and aid in blocking and pressing
stiff low-profile tire beads into deep dropcenter wheels. The locking lower arm helps
lift heavy tires during demounting and holds
tires in place while spinning the rim to complete match-mounting service. An optional
pneumatic wheel lift is available to assist the
operator with heavy assemblies.
control that has a wide diameter for easy gripping. The design also eliminates accidental
changes of direction in confined spaces.
Ripped Spark Plug Boot Remover
by SP Tools/Schley Products
This unique specialty tool (Part No. 68450) is
designed to easily remove ripped and stuckon spark plug boots where there’s no access
to grab the boot. In use, the tool is positioned
in the confined space of the spark plug hole,
between the spark plug and the damaged boot.
Hand pressure then separates the stuck piece
of rubber boot from the porcelain section of
the spark plug. The tool then slides out with the
damaged boot, leaving the spark plug exposed
and ready to be removed. The tool is constructed of heat-treated steel with a black finish.
continued on page 54
1105MAX and 105 Series
Ratchets by Ingersoll Rand
The 1105MAX and 105 series mini air ratchets are available in both 1⁄4- and 3⁄8-in. drive
sizes. The 1105MAX series air ratchets join
the 2135TiMAX and 2115TiMAX Impactools, with 30 ft.-lbs. of torque and a free
speed of 300 rpm. The 105 series mini air
ratchet also offers improved torque at 25 ft.lbs. and a free speed of 250 rpm.
The 1105MAX series ratchet features a
hand-operated variable-speed power regulator that’s well-suited for use on sensitive applications, such as small or plastic fasteners.
The feather-touch lever also gives operators
precision control over the full range of the
tool’s performance. Its ergonomic coupling
nut and composite handle ensure maximum
comfort, minimizing operator fatigue and
providing insulation from cold compressed
air flowing through the handle.
Both the 1105MAX and 105 series ratchets
feature a unique head construction that provides improved durability and more consistent
performance over the life of the tool. The
tools also share a low-profile forward/reverse
Circle #17
May 2010
27
YOUR TOOL & EQUIPMENT ARSENAL
continued from page 27
This problem-solver can be used on many
Ford V8 and V10 engines, as well as certain
Chrysler V6s and V8s. It can also be used on
other vehicles if the diameter of the porcelain
on the spark plug is smaller than .432 in.
ware on a Windows CE platform. It covers
most Asian vehicles with functionality up to
the OE level, and features European and domestic vehicle coverage up to an intermediate level. The tool provides diagnostic coverage for engine, transmission, ABS and
HVAC. Among the advanced functions is immobilizer system (key) programming.
The Carman Scan AT retrieves and manages factory diagnostic trouble codes while
providing full definitions. It also displays
current data, performs and stores flight
records and initializes actuation tests with
the added benefit of full graphical metering
for current data display while the unit performs testing. A unique feature is the ability
to read sensors and view current data while
Hybrid Digital Multimeter
by Snap-on Tools
As more hybrid vehicles start coming in for
repairs, you’ll need the correct tools to safely
service them. The Model EEDM604C Auto
Ranging DMM features CAT III 1000V and
CAT IV 600V ratings, making it well-suited
for work on hybrid vehicles.
The meter has a large 50,000-count LCD
display with 51-segment bar graph and a
flexible optional manual range selection that
changes from auto ranging to manual ranging according to user needs. A REC
(Record) feature allows you to store readings
and provides faster comparative measurements. The REL (Relative) mode zeroes the
reading to factor out unwanted resistance or
compare readings. DATA-H (Data Hold)
locks the reading on the display. The CAP
(Capacitance) test assists in identifying poor
or good capacitors. And if the meter may
have inadvertently endured a jolt, the status
of the internal fuses can be determined before opening the battery/fuse compartment.
Carman Scan AT Universal
Scan Tool by Nextech
The Carman Scan AT universal scan tool features a full-color touch screen with graphical
user interface and J2534-compatible hard-
54
May 2010
simultaneously doing an actuation (bidirectional) test. With this feature, the user can
see the changes of the sensor’s output values during the actuation test.
Tire Pressure Reset Tool
by SPX/OTC
The Tire Pressure Reset (TPR) Tool (Part
No. 3834) is a stand-alone TPMS activation
and reset tool that supports all known TPMS
sensors through the 2009 model year. The
tool combines TPR activation with the
Genisys scan tool, offering the ability to activate and decode sensor IDs and transmit
them wirelessly to the Genisys scan tool via
an included Bluetooth communications
adapter. The tool is compatible with the entire Genisys family of scan tools.
Featuring a bright graphic display and
simple navigation buttons that enable vehicle
selection for fast activation, the 3834 TPR
Tool automatically adjusts activation output
power to eliminate cross-activation of nearby
sensors. The tool set comes equipped with a
TPR hand-held, DB25 wireless adapter, carry
case, registration card, user manual for TPR
and Genisys interface.
The TPR is also available in a TPMS Reset
Tool Master Kit (Part No. 3835), which includes all of the above components, as well
additional TPM accessories, including an activation magnet, valve stem torque wrench,
valve nut torque wrench, digital tire pressure
gauge, TPMS poster, TPMS flip charts, 11and 12mm sockets and a torque tool.
Power Probe III Tester
by Power Probe
The Power Probe III is a test light, flashlight,
short circuit tester, relay and component
tester, continuity tester and bad ground indicator, in a single hand-held tool that connects
to the vehicle battery. The backlit voltmeter
allows you to read voltage at the tip. Pressing
the rocker switch forward provides a hot lead
for powering up electrical components such
as cooling fans and relays. Pressing the switch
rearward provides an instant ground lead.
The polarity tester identifies positive, negative and open circuits without having to repolarize or reconnect hookup clips.
Two white LEDs are located on the front
of the tester, allowing you to work in dark
areas without having to hold a flashlight. An
audio signal indicates positive and negative
by sound instead of sight. The Power Probe
III includes a 19-ft. lead with two battery
hook-up clips, an 18-in. auxiliary ground
lead that protrudes from the bottom and a
sharp 3-in. piercing tip. Expanded Leadset
and Master Combo kits are also available to
further expand the capabilities of the Power
Probe III.
This article can be found online at
www.motormagazine.com.