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Wheel balancers
http://www.lostjeeps.com/forum/phpBB3/viewtopic.php?f=8&t=9611		 Page 1 of 1
Author:  Cowpie1 [ Sun Jun 18, 2006 11:34 am ]
Post subject:  Wheel balancers
We use the Centramatic Wheel balancers on most of our Class 8 trucks. They have them for the Jeep and pickups. They really take out any imperfection in balance and seem to make a noticable difference in the ride and feel. We have gotten 25-30% better tire life. No hard evidence as of yet, but seems to add life to the bearings and seals.

If anyone wants to check out the product and a video on them:

www.centramatic.com

I am calling Monday, and having a set for my CRD sent.

Cliff
Author:  RFCRD [ Sun Jun 18, 2006 11:57 am ]
Post subject: 
This is a very good product. The OTR bus company I work for part time uses them with good results as it balances the entire hub, wheel, and tire assembly. I preferred to use "Equal" balance inside the tires which essentially does the same thing. Now don't laugh at this, a common stunt on buses is to use 3 golf balls inside the tire. Believe it or not, it works too.
Author:  Cowpie1 [ Sun Jun 18, 2006 12:45 pm ]
Post subject:  Wheel balancers
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
Author:  RFCRD [ Sun Jun 18, 2006 9:48 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Wheel balancers
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.
Author:  Ripster [ Mon Jun 19, 2006 10:54 am ]
Post subject: 
Emailed the company, they stated they will not fit the Liberty due to front disk calipers location :cry:
Author:  05WHEELER [ Wed Jul 11, 2007 12:47 am ]
Post subject:  Wheel Balancers
In spite of the mfg's warnings, has anyone bought these for the KJ and if what was the result?
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