Cowpie1 wrote:
I heard of a number of drivers doing the golf ball idea. Would be a cheaper alternative. But with a 1M mile warranty, I'll go with the Centramatics.
There is also a "powder" that comes in packets that you can put in the tire when it is mounted. We have tried that, but the slightest moisture messes things up. Also the wheel becomes coated and the inside has to be power brushed off to remove the residue before a new mount.
At least the Centramatics can be used on the next vehicle!
Cliff
The Equal balance is the powder stuff you describe. It can make a mess, especially if it gets damp/wet and has also been known to plug valve stems. I never had a problem with it but was careful when mounting a tire. Eventually went away from using it because it was far less expensive to pay the local truck tire shop to machine mount & balance tires than pay inside mechanics to stretch them by hand.
The bus company used the Centramatics heavily on the MCI coaches with drum brakes which are notorious for axle balance/vibration problems. All of the newer coaches are Prevost with an excellent Bendix disc system (all 3 axles) that are much better balanced.
I would say give them a try. The worst thing you will have is a good separator to keep the aluminum wheel from corroding against the steel hub.