SEMA News—August 2013
TOOL & EQUIPMENT NEW PRODUCTS
By Steve Campbell
Efficiency in Engineering
The proper tool makes life easier, but it can also make a job more enjoyable. Whether it’s a diagnostic machine or a ballpeen hammer, a ratchet wrench or an English wheel, a good tool can be a treasure to the person using it. A good tool invites use, inspires confidence and demands care.
And just as with every other aspect of professional life, the tools and equipment used in the automotive world are subject to constant inventiveness, innovation and enhancement. Each year, new or improved industry equipment is introduced at the SEMA Show. The 2012 event held last November was replete with groundbreaking new creations, and we’ve brought them together in these pages for your convenience. Find one that makes your life easier.
The newest additions to the CP77X9 family, the CP7769, 3/4-in. Impact Wrench features hard- hitting torque and the Side-2-Side forward/ reverse mechanism. |
The CP7780 is the newest extremely lightweight 1-in. impact wrench with high torque, keeping in mind safety and ergonomics for users. | |
Chicago Pneumatic
Tool Co. The CP9882 riveter features a max axial pulling load of 2,200 lbs. and is designed for heavy pulling in aluminum, copper and softer materials. |
Chicago Pneumatic’s Jitterbug sanders feature a soft grip, impact-resistant composite housing, tear-drop design for control and an ergonomic palm shape for operator comfort. | |
Gunk Engine Brite engine degreaser heavy-duty gel offers superior cleaning power for the greasiest engines. The gel formulation clings where it is sprayed to easily remove baked-on grease and oil from hotter-running engines. |
Chicago Pneumatic Tool Co. The CP7782-6 1-in. impact wrench features a durable, high-performance motor and a robust, reinforced, rocking dog clutch ideal for the tire-changing industry. | |
Safety-Kleen Systems Inc. Gunk Engine Brite engine degreaser heavy-duty gel offers superior cleaning power for the greasiest engines. The gel formulation clings where it is sprayed to easily remove baked-on grease and oil from hotter-running engines. |
Chicago Pneumatic
Tool Co. Chicago Pneumatic general-purpose needle scalers deliver a powerful 4,000 blows per minute and are said to be ideal for any surface cleanup work. | |
PowerStation LLC These jack stands handle heavy vehicles like trucks as well as trailers and equipment with ease. The all-aluminum construction means these jack stands are easy to move around a shop. The ratcheting lift arm and flanged saddle secure loads in multiple positions. Complies with the ASME PALD 2009 standard. |
RSC Chemical Solutions Specifically designed to penetrate and degrease tough buildup on tools and metal surfaces. Inhibits rust. Spray on with pinpoint accuracy and wipe or rinse off. Citrus scent. | |
Chicago Pneumatic Tool Co. The CP7748-2 1/2-in. brute force impact wrench is said to be the most powerful in its class with 922 lb.-ft. of maximum real torque in reverse and extremely fast run-off. |
Chicago Pneumatic Tool Co. The CP7780-6 is the newest extremely lightweight 1-in. impact wrench with high torque, keeping in mind safety and ergonomics for users. | |
Schley Products/SP Tools For BMW and Sprinter Vans, this tool fits around the water pump pulley bolts without pressing on the composite pulley for fan-clutch removal. Eliminates the risk of chipping or breaking a fragile and expensive pulley. |
Schley Products/SP Tools Expand the capabilities of the 11000-series mobile hydraulic press system with the 11090 C frame. Designed with hard-to-reach areas in mind, the 11090 can remove and replace hard-to-get ball joints and bushings and allows 300-degree access for confined areas. The C frame is made in the U.S.A. | |
Armaxa The reinforced lid consists of 48 exposed stainless-steel pins set out in a grid formation that act as receivers for the attachment of the Expand family of products. A pullout drawer makes up the storage compartment for all access when the lid is occupied and has bottom mounting rails for future attachments, such as a fuel tank or storage drawer. |
TecMate North America Store a vehicle and monitor when the battery needs to be recharged. | |
Ratchet Tech Wrenches The Ratchet Tech wrench is a strong, very compact, open-end, flex-head ratchet with a short, 30-degree operating envelope. The company says there is no other open-end ratchet on the market with this combination of features. It is designed to reach the most inaccessible areas. |
Hannibal Industries Hannibal Industries says that this boltless, all-galvanized metal shelving system offers more accessories and storage options than any other shelving system in the market. | |
Monument Tools Inc. Total-Control Cold Knife’s unique radius allows you to maintain a high level of control of the cutting head while permitting you freedom of movement exerting pressure in both cutting directions. Its all-metal construction stands up to the most extreme conditions. Designed for strength and durability. Unique blade locking mechanism. Ergonomic slip-resistant rubberized grips. |
Hannibal Industries Hannibal Industries says that this modular, patent-pending design for warehouse storage handles more capacity, reduces stress on slabs and withstands impacts/seismic events better than conventional racking systems. | |
Grip-Tite The advanced cam technology grips any bolt or nut tightly, even rounded. The more torque the user applies, the harder the cams grip. The sockets also hold nuts and bolts vertically for easy starting or removal in hard-to-reach places. GT-Pro Series products feature superior-strength alloy steel and black-oxide coated cams for maximum durability. |
Spanesi-Americas Spanesi Multibench 12, with powerful 360-degree, 10-ton pulling, high-lift 4.8 ft., multifunction low-profile platform for collision repair and restoration with 6,600-lb. capacity. | |
SP Air Corp. SP-1765 3/8-in. super-fast impact ratchet with maximum speed of 500 rpm and a maximum torque of 55 lb.-ft. |
Grip-Tite The advanced cam technology grips any bolt or nut tightly, even rounded. The more torque the user applies, the harder the cams grip. The sockets also hold nuts and bolts vertically for easy starting or removal in hard-to-reach places. GT-Pro Series products feature superior-strength alloy steel and black-oxide coated cams for maximum durability. | |
Adjustable-focus rechargeable LED; 500 lumens on high and strobe. |
PowerStation LLC Don’t be fooled by its size. This powerful and compact light has six ultra-bright LEDs. The rubberized handle is no-slip and won’t scratch surfaces. The pocket clip keeps light close at hand and ready for use. Three AAA batteries are included. | |
PowerStation LLC The NOS slimline inverter is pocket-size but powerful. This 130W inverter features a 115V AC port and a 2.1-amp/5-volt Xtreme USB port. Xtreme USB charges electronics such as tablets and smartphones twice as fast. A low-voltage alarm, built-in cooling fan and overload and short-circuit protection protects your electronics as well as the inverter. |
Karcher North America, Home and Garden The Performance Series models come with many advanced features, providing an unsurpassed, user-friendly experience. The G2500DC is equipped with a patented Kärcher direct-drive, self-priming, siphon-capable pump and is powered by a choice of either a Honda or Kärcher OHV Kps Series engine. | |
Stone River Gear LLC Two-blade folding knife with carbon-fiber handle, titanium-coated and partially serrated 440 stainless blade and black zirconium-oxide ceramic blade. Liner locks. |
Karcher North America,
Home and Garden Equipped with a reverse-mounted Honda or Kärcher OHV Kxs Series engine, the Expert Series delivers superior power and performance. The ergonomic design of the Expert Series provides exceptional balance and maneuverability. The adjustable heavy-duty frame folds to create a protective rollcage and features machined tie-downs for secure transport. | |
Karcher North
America, Home
and Garden The K5.740 features patented water-cooled technology, an industry first. Water circulates around the motor, reducing the heat generated, which improves performance and prolongs life by up to five times. Since the K5.740 doesn’t require a fan to cool the motor, energy efficiency is increased while operating noise is minimized. |
Karcher North America, Home
and Garden Said to be the first Lithium-Ion cordless window and flat-surface wet vac. For quick and easy, streak-free cleaning of windows, auto glass, counters, shower doors, tables, almost any flat surface. Save time and money associated with using paper or cloth towels. It’s especially beneficial to people who suffer from arthritis and other joint/muscle aliments. | |
Dale Adams Enterprises Inc. The Tail Bone keeps the user close to the ground, has big wheels to roll where others couldn’t dream and won’t tip the user backward. |
PipeMaster Tools A new approach to stake-pocket ties for a pickup, these plastic ties snap into the stake pocket when the user needs them and out when he doesn’t. Generally, truck ties are permanently installed and may interfere with other truck accessories. Built from nylon plastic, these durable ties will not rust or scratch the truck’s paint. | |
Rousseau Metal Inc. Now available at Rousseau—toolboxes with stainless-steel drawer fronts. Offered for a service department, stainless-steel drawer fronts will complement the department and provide an extremely polished and impressive appearance. The combination of painted steel on the toolbox housing with stainless-steel drawer fronts is striking. |
Safety-Kleen Systems Inc. Bio-based, 100% biodegradable penetrant and lubricant aerosol is said to deliver superior-quality lubrication without harming the environment. | |
Save A Battery/Granite Digital The Save A Battery Power Bar is a high-tech, 12-volt, 25-watt charger, maintainer, conditioner and digital tester in a lightweight and compact design. Ideal for use with cars, trucks, motorcycles or boats. Includes quick-disconnect battery-lug cable and alligator-clip cable. Universal voltage input 90-264 VAC. |
Hammer Works
Manufacturing The quick-release battery connectors are heavy-duty products equivalent to those designed for permanent connection. The battery can be easily disconnected and moved to another car, leisure vehicle, boat, etc. No tools needed. Quick-release battery connectors are designed to accommodate jumper cables when connected to the battery. | |
Las Vegas Tool LLC Las Vegas Tool says that Easypuller is the most versatile pulling tool a user can own. Removes any bolt, pin, dent, clip or seal in seconds. |
PipeMaster Tools The Master Kit contains PipeMaster adjustable templates from 3/4- through 2-in. by 1/8-in. increments. These tools are used to determine the exact shape to cut on the ends of tubes when welding rollcages or any other tube or pipe project. | |
Wray Products The Stand Hand (patents pending) is said by Wray Products to be the perfect tool organizer for any mechanic. Fits any triangular jackstand. No more lost tools or fasteners. No matter if it’s one hour or one year, tools and fasteners stay in one place. The Stand Hand saves time, saves money and eliminates frustration. |
Auto Step The Auto Step was designed to prevent injury in the work place. This product allows access to a vehicle while carrying parts, windshields or tools. It gives easy access to the engine compartment by harnessing to almost any tire on the road today. No more standing on overturned buckets, blocks of wood or milk crates. Your first choice in safety. | |
PDQ Precision Inc. Mini-Max steam vapor cleaners. |
Cool-A-Zone The CoolBox evaporative cooling fan is the perfect solution for cooling mechanic bays, warehouses, patios and more. This fan covers 1,050 sq. ft. and runs for less than $1 a day. It has a 21-gal. reservoir that will last for up to six to nine hours. The water pump has a built-in kill switch that will turn the pump off in case the fan runs out of water. | |
MCR USA Stepper Motors for new manufacturing and repair/rebuild of automotive gauges (speedometer, tachometer, temperature, fuel, oil pressure, voltage and amperage). |
VehicleMRI-Ease Diagnostics VehicleMRI finds and forecasts problems hidden inside a vehicle’s internal electronic systems in minutes by capturing and analyzing powertrain, ABS, airbag and body controller data. | |
| Runner-Up—Best New Tools & Equipment Product | ||
Cool-A-Zone The Cool-A-Zone CoolBox Plus is an evaporative cooling fan that covers 2,700 sq. ft. with an air delivery of 10,600 cfm. This fans runs for less than $1 a day and has a built-in kill switch for the water pump if the fan runs out of water. |
Cool-A-Zone The CoolBox Mini evaporative cooling fan is perfect for spot cooling. This fan will cover up to 300 sq. ft. and runs for nine hours off its 3-gal. reservoir. This fan runs quietly for less than $1 a day and the water pump has a kill switch so the pump will shut off if the fan runs out of water. | |
Wray Products Wray Products says that the Stand Hand Plus is the perfect tool organizer for any home mechanic. Simply place over any jack stand before placing the jack stand under a vehicle. The user is now ready to save time, money and frustration. No more looking for sockets that have rolled away or nuts and bolts that have gotten lost. The simplest tool organizer you will ever buy. |
AirHoseRepairKit.com This air hose repair kit comes with everything the user needs to make professional-quality air hose repairs fast and easy. The kit comes complete with 100 hose ferrules, 40 brass hose barbs, hose cutter, fitting storage container and a hose crimper. Crimps ferrules on 1/4- through 3/8-in. double-braid hose. Optional dies will allow crimping on 1/2-in. I.D. hose. | |
Power Probe Inc. The ultimate circuit tester; powers motors and loads. |
GearWrench The GearWrench 120XP ratchet design provides all the benefits of a fine-tooth ratchet without sacrificing strength or durability. | |
Uni-Dolly The Uni-Dolly car dolly system is a heavy-duty dolly system for supporting and moving vehicles and other heavy objects undergoing repair processes, storage and other procedures requiring ease of movement, access and safety. |
Steamericas Inc. The Optima Steamer DS-S is an all-stainless-steel steam generator that utilizes diesel for heat. Features include 10-gal. water tank, direct water hook-up, non-idling boiler and compact size. Using steam, achieve waste-water-free repair and maintenance on auto body and parts, car wash and detailing, sanitation and deodorization of auto interior. | |
Flo-Dynamics Device for identifying glycol/water percentage in transmission fluid. A fast and easy three-minute test with instant visual results. |
Malco Products Inc. Quickly hem replacement door skins for passenger vehicles and light trucks with limited manual tacking. Fits cordless or corded electric drills. ABS polymer anvil will not scratch or mar. Seaming wheel flush to anvil fence for tight, clean edge. Resistant to solvents and easily cleaned. | |
GearWrench GearWrench mid-length sockets enhance productivity by offering greater access in applications where a deep socket is necessary but too long to give the clearance required. |
AirHoseRepairKit.com This air hose repair kit comes with everything the user needs to make professional-quality 1/4-, 3/8- and 1/2-in. air hose repairs fast and easy. The kit comes complete with 100 hose ferrules, 39 brass hose barbs, hose cutter, fitting storage container, LDHC hose crimper and five sets of dies. Optional dies are available to crimp hose up to 1-in. inside diameter. | |
Malco Products Inc. Quickly hem replacement door skins for passenger vehicles and light trucks with limited manual tacking. Compatible with existing air supplies. ABS polymer anvil will not scratch or mar. Seaming wheel flush to anvil fence for tight, clean edge. Resistant to solvents and easily cleaned. |
Malco Products Inc. Quickly hem replacement door skins for passenger vehicles and light trucks with limited manual tacking. Fits cordless or corded electric drills. ABS polymer anvil will not scratch or mar. Seaming wheel flush to anvil fence for tight, clean edge. Resistant to solvents and easily cleaned. | |
Great Stuff Inc. Beautiful aesthetics under pressure. On-demand pneumatics is here, without springs. The RoboReel portable air-hose system breathes air into a shop and gives users the flexibility to work in a 360-degree radius. When you are finished with a task, a simple tug retracts the hose safely and neatly every time all the time. |
Great Stuff Inc. The RoboReel is said to be the world’s first power-cord reel worthy of being called a power tool. This portable motor-driven power cord system delivers 50 ft. of 12-gauge cord with a smart, three-outlet receptacle ball end. The cord retracts at the touch of a button on either the unit or the end of the cord to make the user’s life easier. | |
Hoist Hanger Hoist Hanger allows technicians to remove and install heavy wheels and tires from a standing position, thereby virtually eliminating back strain or injury while saving time and money. |
Hammer Works
Manufacturing This state-of-the-art bearing and race punch is the only punch in the world that uses consumable cartridge replacement ends made of Hammer Works Manufacturing’s patented proprietary zinc composite material. The consumable cartridges are also available in brass and aluminum. | |
Controller Technologies Corp. Hardware and software kit to perform all of the DRB III functions on ’96–’07 Chrysler vehicles. Actual DRB III software running on a PC. |
Fluid D-Terminator A dual-compartment plastic tool with which to draw sample fluids from vehicles to compare with an OEM/new fluid to show customers why they should invest in preventative maintenance since maintenance is less costly than repairs. A set of four for each technician is a must-have show-and-tell tool that will unmask huge hidden uptick sales potential. | |
Feed Master Inc. The Feed Master Tool feeds wires, cables and hoses through a split-loom in seconds. |
Viper Tool
Storage Viper Tool Storage introduces its new Armor Series of products. The product ranges from toolboxes and garage storage to truck crossover boxes. Armor is a heavy-duty industrial look built to last. All Viper tool-storage products include drawer liners, cam locks, heavy-duty casters and ball-bearing slides. Armor is the look of the future. | |
LiteBrake Tech Patent-pending steel-clad aluminum rotor uses its material properties and the aluminum wheel to reduce pad drag, increase friction and provide other benefits. |
Redback Boots USA Smelter boot with metatarsal guard is built tough to prevent entry of molten metals. Nitrile vulcanized rubber sole resistant to 300 degrees. Steel toe meets ASTM standards. | |
Hammer Works Manufacturing Said to be only hammer in the world made of preparatory zinc composite head, coming in short and long handle. Its handle is made of high-density, shock-absorbent material with unequaled chemical and corrosion resistance. The only true dead-blow hammer with no bounce, no vibration, no spark and no damaged parts. |
Roser’s Auto Solutions The new innovative tool for removing door glass on select ’09-and-newer Dodge, Chrysler, Jeep, Ford and GM vehicles with the tab retainer method on the window regulators. Much safer and more effective than using a (most commonly used) screwdriver around glass. |
Chicago Pneumatic Tool Co.
Chicago Pneumatic Tool Co.
Chicago Pneumatic Tool Co.
Safety-Kleen Systems Inc.
Stone River Gear LLC
