US Dollars
Assist Arms & Tower Assist Systems for Professional Tire Changing
Assist arms and tower assist systems are essential accessories for modern tire changers, designed to handle the increasingly challenging demands of today's low-profile, run-flat, and stiff sidewall tires. These pneumatic-powered tools provide the additional leverage and control needed to mount and demount difficult tires while protecting expensive wheels from damage.
Why Assist Arms Are Essential
Modern vehicles increasingly feature aluminum wheels, low-profile tires, and run-flat technology that make tire changing more complex. Assist arms address these challenges by:
- Preventing Wheel Damage: Controlled pneumatic pressure reduces the risk of scratching or damaging expensive alloy wheels during mounting and demounting operations
- Managing Stiff Sidewalls: Run-flat and performance tires have extremely rigid sidewalls that resist traditional tire changing methods, requiring additional mechanical assistance
- Improving Operator Safety: Pneumatic assist arms allow operators to keep both hands free during tire changing operations, reducing physical strain and the risk of injury
- Increasing Efficiency: What might take multiple technicians or repeated attempts with manual tools can often be accomplished by a single operator with proper assist equipment
Left Hand (LH) vs. Right Hand (RH) Assist Arms
Assist arm systems typically come in two configurations that work together or independently:
Left Hand (LH) Assist Arms: These mount on the left side of the tire changer and typically feature a disc and rotating press arm that exerts pressure on the tire sidewall. The pneumatic cylinder provides both upward and downward pressure depending on whether you're mounting or demounting, helping keep the bead properly positioned during the operation.
Right Hand (RH) Assist Arms: Designed as a complement to LH arms, RH assist arms typically feature an oversized polyurethane bead roller that moves across horizontal slides. This roller exerts downward pressure on the bead to keep it below the rim lip during mounting and demounting operations, particularly useful for extremely stiff sidewall tires.
Dual Assist Arm Systems
For shops regularly servicing challenging tires, dual assist arm packages combine both LH and RH assist arms for maximum capability. Using both arms simultaneously provides unparalleled power for the most stubborn tire and wheel combinations. The dual-arm approach is particularly valuable when working with:
- Run-flat tires with extremely rigid sidewalls
- Ultra-low profile performance tires
- Large diameter wheels with minimal tire sidewall
- Heavy-duty truck tires requiring extra mounting force
Compatibility Considerations
Assist arms are designed to fit specific tire changer models and configurations. When selecting an assist arm system, verify compatibility with your equipment:
- Swing Arm Tire Changers: Some assist arms are specifically engineered for swing arm style tire changers, with mounting configurations suited to these machines
- Tilt-Back Tire Changers: Other models are designed for tilt-back column tire changers, which have different mounting requirements and operating characteristics
- Mounting Requirements: Installation typically requires pre-drilled mounting holes and specific fixture points on the tire changer cabinet or base
- Pneumatic Requirements: Operating pressure typically ranges from 116-145 PSI depending on the model, so ensure your shop's air system can deliver adequate pressure
Key Features to Evaluate
When comparing assist arm systems, consider these functional elements:
- Adjustable Height Positioning: The ability to raise or lower the arm assembly ensures proper alignment with various tire and wheel sizes
- Separate Control Valves: Independent pneumatic controls allow precise positioning and pressure application for optimal tire changing technique
- Roller and Disc Materials: Polyurethane rollers and properly designed pressure discs minimize the risk of marking or damaging wheels and tires
- Horizontal Slide Mechanisms: Smooth sliding action allows quick positioning of bead rollers to the exact location needed
Installation and Setup
Professional installation is recommended for assist arm systems to ensure proper operation and safety. Typical installation involves:
- Mounting the main unit to the tire changer cabinet using fixture bolts at predetermined locations
- Connecting pneumatic lines to the shop air supply with appropriate pressure regulation
- Adjusting the arm positioning for the specific tire changer model and typical tire sizes serviced
- Testing all control valves and pressure settings before putting the system into service
Installation manuals are typically provided with assist arm systems and should be followed carefully to ensure safe and proper operation.
⚠️ Safety Note:
Assist arms apply significant pneumatic force and should only be operated by trained technicians following proper tire changing procedures. Always wear appropriate safety equipment including safety glasses and follow manufacturer operating instructions.
Specifications vary by model. Always check individual product listings and manufacturer documentation for exact details regarding compatibility, operating pressure, dimensions, and installation requirements for your specific tire changer.
Assist Arms / Tower Assist
WARNING: These products can contains certain metals & chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov