Place | Name | Characteristics in the rating |
Top 5 best balancing machines |
1 | CORGHI EM 9250 CompactLine PREMIUM | The best compact machine |
2 | START Sivik SBMK-60 E | Reliable budget model |
3 | PULI PL-6579WR | Easy to understand calibration |
4 | NORDBERG 4523A | 10 balancing modes |
5 | SOROKIN 15.21 | Manual calibration |
Trucks, motorcycles, cars, buses - everyone needs balancing of wheels that suffer from driving on bumpy domestic roads. Therefore, specialized machines are indispensable equipment. They return the wheels to their original shape, bringing the center of mass as close to the geometric center as possible. The result is safe driving in any vehicle.
The design of all balancing machines is almost the same. The difference in price is due to the location of production and additional features. The most standard model looks like a case with a table and weights. From technology - a monitor or display on which the test results are displayed. However, the level of automation, size and weight of the wheels being serviced are different. Somewhere the user sets the parameters, expensive models do this themselves. There are programs that tell you the distance of the weights, sometimes they add automatic descent and stopping of the wheels. We have collected the 5 best models of all price categories, both the most sophisticated and the simplest.
An indispensable attribute for the service industry
Previously, such nuances were resolved using a static method. It is understood that the wheel was put on a special rod, after which it was untwisted. Stopping points were marked. To determine the area of imbalance, such manipulations were repeated several times. It could take all day to service one vehicle. In addition, it should be noted the high level of error, which was overcome years later. How often do you need to use such services?
According to ordinary people, if a car regularly drives on city roads, then it is necessary to contact a car service center at least once every six months. Such trips coincide with the seasonal replacement of tires, which allows you to save money. However, if the vehicle often drives off-road or in the suburbs, it is recommended to visit the machine once every few months. Balancing has a beneficial effect not only on the operation of the “wheels”, but also:
- Crankshaft.
- Cardan shaft.
- Compressors.
- Pulleys.
- coupling
- Rotorov.
The point is that debugging can be aimed at the functioning of individual elements of the machine. How to understand that such manipulations are necessary? For those who have only recently driven, this question is more than relevant. In order to avoid making common mistakes, you need to pay attention to how the car drives at speed and whether there is vibration in the steering wheel area. These bells are the first thing a motorist should pay attention to and visit a tire shop in the near future.
Experts advise balancing after each wheel falls into a large hole. If the impact is really strong and there is visible deformation of the disc, then you simply cannot do without stands. In addition to leveling the damaged surface, you should seek the services of specialists.
Timely contact with specialists will help to avoid many problems, including:
- Deterioration of the suspension condition.
- Accelerated wear of the wheel bearings.
- Tire tread wear.
- Increased loads on the steering.
The main task of a tire service worker is to identify imbalances and eliminate them. In this case, compensating loads on certain areas of the disk are eliminated. In addition to the employee’s personal experience, an important criterion is the availability of high-quality equipment from the world’s best manufacturers. The average cost of work will depend on the diameter of the wheel. An amount of 200 rubles does not seem that big, especially when it comes to the safety of yourself and others. What are the settings?
What is wheel balancing and why is it needed?
Balancing means combining the geometric and actual centers of mass of the wheel. In simple terms, the geometric center of mass is the theoretical axis passing through the central hole. In practice, the actual center of mass almost never coincides with the central axis, but is located at some distance from it. The distance between these two points is called eccentricity. The discrepancy is due to the fact that the thickness of the tire in different areas can be different, in addition, the spool has additional weight, and the disk itself has slight differences in weight.
During rotation, moments of inertia arise that interfere with uniform circular motion, creating radial and axial runout. The magnitude of the moment of inertia depends on the unbalanced mass and the distance to the geometric axis. The only way to get rid of imbalance is to balance the free mass, aligning the axes of rotation and the center of mass.
Based on the above, we can safely say that the main task of wheel balancing is to eliminate radial and axial runout by compensating for mass by adding special weights or in some other way.
Consequences of wheel imbalance:
- Uneven wear of tires, due to which not only the handling deteriorates and the dynamic properties of the car decrease, but also the wear of the tires themselves significantly increases.
- Increased loads on parts and suspension units. As a rule, the first to fail are wheel bearings, which experience colossal radial loads due to wheel imbalance. A faulty bearing can jam at any time, which is especially dangerous at high speed. The steering ends will also not last long.
- Unpleasant noises and vibrations arise, which are transmitted to the steering wheel, as a result, controllability deteriorates and the level of comfort drops significantly. Driving a car with a vibrating steering wheel is a real punishment.
How often should you balance?
It should be noted that balancing must be carried out even when purchasing new disks, since there are often cases when a new product has a significant imbalance. Also, checking the absence of radial and axial runout should be carried out every 10-15 thousand kilometers. However, if during this period any emergency situations arose, for example, there was a collision with a curb or a wheel fell into a hole at speed, you must do an unscheduled check as soon as possible.
Types of equipment
Popular models designed for passenger cars are in greatest demand. During rotation, the X and Y axes of the wheel must remain unchanged. Otherwise, the centrifugal force will be directed to other elements of the car. An imbalance may occur due to encountering a serious bump, hole, or other type of load. When considering situations related to trucks, one should add to the general list the excessive vibrations of the body itself that occur during the transportation of goods. Such moments negatively affect the suspension and service life of the tires.
Installations intended for trucks are classified as specialized. It will not be possible to perform the assigned tasks on conventional machines. In addition to more accurate recognition of balancing, they can significantly increase the service life of tires and other elements of the car. After a series of successful manipulations, vibrations on the body become less, the load on the chassis and hub decreases, and an increased smoothness of the ride is observed. Unlike conventional stands, machines for trucks are equipped with a reinforced frame.
Signs that your wheels need to be balanced
- When driving at speed, noise appeared, this was especially noticeable at speeds above 100 km/h. The car began to drift away from its straight path.
- There were unpleasant vibrations on the steering wheel, which increased when accelerating.
- The tread depth varies in different areas, or uneven wear is noticeable on at least one of the wheels. Very often, due to imbalance on the front wheels, the edges of the tires are eaten away.
Before we consider the standard wheel balancing technology, let’s get acquainted with the types of imbalance.
Static imbalance
It occurs due to the fact that the center of gravity shifts some distance from the axis of rotation. That is, there is an uneven placement of weight around the circumference of the wheel, as a result of which the axes of rotation and inertia become parallel.
In order to check for static imbalance, just hang up the car wheel and spin it by hand. When the wheel stops spinning, its lowest point will be the heaviest place. For reliability, the experiment must be repeated several times; if the wheel stops in the same position, this indicates the presence of a static imbalance.
Dynamic imbalance
It is formed due to the mismatch of the axes of inertia and rotation. As a result, when the wheel rotates, significant radial runout is observed, since the mass is distributed unevenly across the entire width of the tire. To eliminate such phenomena, wheels are balanced using special equipment. Moreover, it should be noted that it is only possible to completely get rid of dynamic imbalance; coping with static imbalance is an impossible task for most auto repairmen.
How does it work
Without equipment of this type it is extremely difficult to imagine a modern tire service. Even in small workshops there is room for a device that will take up to 3 square meters. m area. Preliminary strengthening of the foundation is also not required. The base of the structure is reinforced. On one side the shaft for the wheel is mounted. A protective casing is attached to the top. Depending on the power of the electric motor and the dimensions of the casing, the size of the wheel that is attached to the stand depends.
The principle of balancing is to spin the wheel, which detects axle deviations during rotation. This happens differently in each model.
For convenience, below is a comparative table with an overview of the main indicators.
type of drive | Description |
Auto | The best solution for most enterprises in this service sector. The necessary operations are performed automatically - by machine. The wheel is spun by a shaft. Measurements are carried out using an electronic ruler. Detected deviations are displayed on the monitor. After a short processing of the data, the installation locations of the weights are determined automatically, as is their weight. Voice commands can be used for greater control convenience. |
Semi-automatic | The tire spin-up also occurs automatically. No outside efforts should be made for this. Regardless of the brand, data will have to be entered into the computer manually. |
Manual | The shaft is untwisted manually. To measure basic parameters you will need a mechanical ruler. The information received is compared with the GOST manual on deviations. |
What should you pay special attention to when choosing popular models? On the manufacturer, consumer reviews and the cost of the basic kit. Most modern enterprises rely on the quality of equipment, thereby reducing the number of employees. In this case, preference should be given to expensive and fully automated designs made in Russia or China.
Such devices are capable of identifying problems in one cycle and eliminating them if necessary. During a work shift, you will be able to serve more clients, which means your income will be higher. Customers spend less time visiting a service station, which means they will prefer to return there again.
Final wheel balancing
A similar event is carried out after the basic wheel balancing has been performed. The main goal of final balancing is to reduce the difference in mass to zero, thereby almost completely eliminating the effect of imbalance. Final balancing is usually carried out on vehicles that are often driven at high speeds. A good result can be obtained by replacing traditional lead weights installed on the rim with modern granules that are poured directly into the tire. To carry out final balancing, you need high-tech equipment that creates a specific three-dimensional model and performs its subsequent detailed analysis.
Rating of high-quality and inexpensive balancing machines
AE&T B-500
The model is used to troubleshoot the wheels of passenger cars, small trucks and motorcycles. Operates in static and dynamic mode. An excellent solution for small and developing centers. It is based on advanced technology that allows all necessary manipulations to be carried out in one cycle, even if the weights are placed close together. In addition to the calibration mode, there is the ability to work with alloy wheels (three modes). The panel is equipped with a large and convenient display.
In terms of price, such a kit is beneficial, because the purchase will cost 48,000 rubles.
balancing machine AE&T B-500
Advantages:
- after lowering the casing, autostart occurs;
- numerous operating modes;
- automatic calibration function;
- modern technology for installing weights and taking measurements;
- data input via measuring arm;
- presence of dynamic and static mode.
Flaws:
- no significant ones.
START Sivik SBMK-60 E
The model belongs to the budget category. In addition, the device positions itself as reliable and extremely easy to use. It should be noted that the operator may not have proper work experience. There is a proprietary protection against power surges - “power guard”. To start the system, you must press the corresponding button or close the cover. The electronic ruler is responsible for determining the diameter and distance. A special sensor is responsible for the amount of work performed. Based on numerous reviews, the 40 mm spindle unit deserves special attention.
You can buy the device in the online store at a price of 52,000 rubles.
balancing machine START Sivik SBMK-60 E
Advantages:
- strength;
- build quality;
- ergonomics;
- The set contains different-sized cones, calipers and a casing;
- warranty – one year;
- noise reduction option.
Flaws:
- "split" with limited functionality.
SOROKIN 15.21
Used for servicing trucks, cars and motorcycles. The installation is intended for medium and light workload. The active flow will not work for the model. The information can be viewed on the display with a Russian interface. When installing weights, a sound alert occurs. The program is launched after entering the data. Calibration is carried out independently by the operator. The noise level is 70 dB, which is considered acceptable. The display diagonal is 24 inches, which allows for visual and information control.
Cost – 53,000 rubles.
balancing machine SOROKIN 15.21
Advantages:
- convenient display;
- In the kit you can find calipers, pliers, a flange, clamping nuts and cones;
- insignificant error of 1 g;
- eliminates both dynamic and static imbalance.
Flaws:
- parameters are entered manually;
- build quality.
AE&T B-520
The unit is capable of servicing wheels with a diameter of 10-24 inches, which are used by light trucks, cars and motorcycles. This is the best model to buy for working with alloy wheels. It is characterized by the output of indicators of increased accuracy during self-calibration and routine diagnostics. Measurements are carried out automatically. The control panel is equipped with a color display, cells and a work table where weights are placed. The shaft is made of high-strength materials and has an increased strength index. There are three separate programs for working with aluminum wheels. There is also a static and dynamic mode. Automatic start when lowering the cover.
How much does the model cost? The purchase will cost 62,000 rubles.
balancing machine AE&T B-520
Advantages:
- automatic ruler for measurements;
- high-precision equipment with minimal error;
- high strength shaft;
- separate modes designed to work with alloy wheels.
Flaws:
- not identified.
AE&T B-820
This new product in the world of balancing stands has a modern appearance and a set of characteristics that will help a novice mechanic start his own business. Works with 10-24 inch wheels, which is considered standard for small trucks, cars and motorcycles. Designed to work with cast structures. It is characterized by the presence of a high-precision apparatus, which is used to install self-adhesive weights. Excellent performance was revealed both during self-calibration and diagnostics. The computer makes the measurements independently. The product is equipped with a color display, special cells for weights and a work table.
The purchase will cost 87,000 rubles.
balancing machine AE&T B-820
Advantages:
- stability;
- steel body;
- automatic ruler;
- high-precision equipment;
- accuracy and strength of the shaft;
- separate program for alloy wheels;
- precision in working with weights.
Flaws:
- not identified.
TOP best balancing machines in the mid-price segment
PULI PL-6579WR
A well-known branded product from a Korean manufacturer, its work is based on the latest integrated circuits. It is a full-fledged diagnostic complex that displays information in real time. Equipped with a 15-inch display. The operating system of the design is of its own production, which indicates the high accuracy of the measurements taken. Weights are added automatically; for this, the machine stops the wheel. The rotation of the shaft is recorded separately. The laser pointer is responsible for the correct position.
Cost – 95,000 rubles.
balancing machine PULI PL-6579WR
Advantages:
- illumination of disks during the verification process;
- automatic start, stop and suspension of weights;
- over 10 modes;
- durable body;
- clear controls;
- self-adjustment of the tire.
Flaws:
- price.
AE&T B-600
A high-quality product from a well-known and time-tested manufacturer. In addition to modern design, it should be noted that there is a set of programs that can cope with the indicated functions. Responsible for balancing the wheels of cars, trucks, and motorcycles in both static and dynamic modes. An excellent solution for new and small service stations. A two-contact measuring ruler is responsible for the placement of balancing weights and measurements. The “autoprogramm” option helps set the layout. Illumination is provided by LEDs located on the housing. The computing unit is built on a Texas microprocessor, which belongs to the high-performance category. The electromagnetic brake significantly reduces the time available to stop the wheel.
Cost – 99,000 rubles.
balancing machine AE&T B-600
Advantages:
- electromagnetic brake;
- memory function;
- presence of a laser navigation system;
- LED lights;
- two-coordinate measuring system;
- option "autoprogramm";
- "moto" function;
- digital display.
Flaws:
- not identified.
AE&T B-823
A modern device that allows you to balance passenger car wheels. Equipped with surge protection and self-diagnosis. The machine quickly identifies any faults and displays them on a convenient display. The interface of the application used deserves special attention, which will be understandable even to a person who has not previously dealt with such equipment. There are several operating modes, which will help you cope with everyday tasks without difficulty. Markings and self-calibration are carried out by the system.
Price – 101,000 rub.
balancing machine AE&T B-823
Advantages:
- numerous operating modes;
- interface;
- automated ruler;
- display;
- assembly;
- speed of work;
- quality of manipulations.
Flaws:
- small wheel diameter.
NORDBERG 4523A
It is this kind of company that is better to buy automated equipment if the company has sufficient funds. One of the main selection criteria is the characteristics, and this model is excellent. We are talking about the distance, width and diameter of the elements being served. All necessary information is displayed on a convenient 17-inch liquid crystal display. Operates on a voltage of 220 V. Assembly and production of key elements takes place in China. However, already assembled equipment is tested in Europe, as evidenced by the relevant certificates. In the set, a potential buyer can find a meter, compass, pliers, weights and nuts.
Price – 114,000 rub.
balancing machine NORDBERG 4523A
Advantages:
- high-quality set with everything you need inside;
- low noise level (70 dB);
- Comfortable size LCD display;
- table with separate compartments for weights;
- a separate program is responsible for the hidden installation function, which is mounted in a niche located near the wheel spokes;
- optimization of tire position;
- self-calibration;
- self-diagnosis;
- workplace lighting;
- versatility (suitable for both a small workshop and a large service station).
Flaws:
- not identified.
AE&T B-829
Popular model from a well-known manufacturer. An excellent choice for small and semi-professional workshops that service cars and other small vehicles. Provided that the company’s budget allows, then preference should be given to high-quality and time-tested equipment at an affordable cost.
The average price is 119,000 rubles.
balancing machine AE&T B-829
Advantages:
- self-diagnosis;
- protection against breakdowns and power surges;
- system input of three main parameters;
- ruler included;
- numerous modes;
- comfortable LCD display of optimal size;
- system marking and calibration.
Flaws:
- not identified.
Master Tires MT-1200
The balancing structure is designed for servicing trucks. It should be noted that there is a pneumatic lift, which is so necessary for working with large equipment. Allows you to identify imbalances of both truck and passenger wheels. It is distinguished by the presence of a powerful microprocessor, which has an error of 0.005 kg.
Cost – 142,000 rubles.
balancing machine Master Tires MT-1200
Advantages:
- high-speed processor with a stable clock frequency;
- A durable casing is provided for operator safety;
- error codes during calibration are displayed on the screen;
- built-in pneumatic lift;
- clear interface.
Flaws:
- none.
Rating of the best premium balancing machines
CORGHI EM 9250 CompactLine PREMIUM
One of the highest quality products on the modern market. However, the quality completely justifies the cost. If necessary, the model can be ordered online directly from the manufacturer’s website. Allows you to identify imbalances in minivans, motorcycles and cars. The operator’s work is simplified as much as possible due to built-in programs that independently work with weights on the tire. All necessary information is displayed on the LED backlit panel. The disk is shown in section, after which the system independently determines the plane of placement of the balances.
Cost: 220,000 rub.
balancing machine CORGHI EM 9250 CompactLine PREMIUM
Advantages:
- build quality;
- speed of implementation of necessary manipulations;
- a time-tested product from a renowned brand;
- Sensors are responsible for reading data;
- standard body color;
- processing tires weighing up to 75 kg;
- if necessary, you can purchase auxiliary stands designed for wheels of larger diameter and size;
- reinforced rotation drive;
- the ability to use four wheels simultaneously;
- three types of cargo.
Flaws:
- not identified.
John Bean B9200
An excellent solution for small businesses and small workshops that have just begun their path to universal recognition. According to most experts, such a purchase is an integral step to success and high income. The design allows you to carry out the necessary manipulations in a short period of time, without much loss of labor.
Price – 430,000 rub.
balancing machine John Bean B9200
Advantages:
- comfortable placement of weights and other balances;
- convenient display that displays the necessary information;
- application of VPI technology (virtual planes);
- after measurements, the system turns on the brake;
- hidden placement of weights;
- identifying the exact location of the problem;
- semi-automatic diameter and insertion measurement;
- ergonomics;
- equipment;
- there is no need to purchase lifting equipment;
- mobility.
Flaws:
- manual drive for tire rotation.
HOFMANN GEODYNA 7600L
A frequent visitor to tire shops, city service stations and dealerships with a high and medium volume of daily work. An excellent solution for servicing motorcycles, SUVs, minibuses, small trucks and cars. The system independently makes a preliminary selection from the list of available modes. To simplify entering information and setting balances, backlighting is used. The monitor is built-in, touch-type, with a convenient graphical interface.
Price – 468,000 rubles.
balancing machine HOFMANN GEODYNA 7600L
Advantages:
- convenient tire mounting;
- start-stop (short cycle);
- accelerated data processing time;
- VPM technology;
- a wide choice of programs;
- balancing cover;
- the rim is equipped with lighting for easy cleaning;
- EasyALU function;
- Smart Sonar;
- fast data entry;
- accuracy of measurements and problem area;
- touch monitor.
Flaws:
- not identified.
Hunter GSP9700 with Road Force Measurement system
A balancing stand that contains all the necessary characteristics and functional features that truly high-quality balancing stands should have. Both lateral and radial impact on the disc are measured, after which the system makes recommendations to solve the identified problem. Such aspects may concern both the chassis of the machine and other key elements, for which conventional equipment may not be enough to eliminate the problem. It is rightfully considered the best equipment for determining tire slip forces, measuring basic indicators, balancing quality, loaded runout and radial forces.
Price – 1,018,000 rubles.
Hunter GSP9700 balancing machine with Road Force Measurement system
Advantages:
- Wheel Countering Check option;
- after pressing the pedal, information is instantly transmitted;
- Split Weight mode;
- laser pointer;
- Split Spoke mode;
- tire stability on the machine.
Flaws:
- not identified.
HOFMANN geodyna 9000P
The installation is used in professional workshops, service stations and dealership centers, where there is an endless flow of customers. The system first checks the level of the tire and its correct position on the rim. The axial and radial runout of the tire and wheels is also measured. The system checks the tread pattern, which is then displayed on the screen. In the set you can find auxiliary clamps of the electromechanical type. The screen is wide, built-in and color.
Price – 1250000 rub.
balancing machine HOFMANN geodyna 9000P
Advantages:
- the ability to manually adjust geometric fit and smoothness;
- contactless input of necessary information;
- VPM technology;
- checking the axial runout and radial runout of the tire and disk;
- the correct fit of the tire is checked by the system;
- search for damage to the side element;
- search for flat wear;
- easy to use program;
- the ability to use equipment without prior training;
- numerous programs and settings;
- color and wide monitor;
- clamping device included in the set;
- diagnostics (data) are saved automatically;
- printout of measurements;
- degree of tire wear.
Flaws:
- none.
Balancing errors
Unfortunately, very often, given the specifics of the work of domestic car service workers, even after balancing, significant imbalances on the wheels remain, since the work is carried out with gross violations of the technological process.
The most common mistakes when balancing wheels:
- Balancing a dirty wheel. Adhering grains of sand and dirt will create additional imbalance, spoiling the overall picture, so it will not be possible to bring the wheel to zero.
- Balancing a damaged wheel with modified geometry. First you need to roll the wheel on special equipment, and it is prohibited to straighten the wheel using the impact method. In addition, it is necessary to dismantle all old weights.
- Excessive tightening of the wheel on the balancing machine hub. The tightening force must be strictly specified, otherwise the alignment will be disrupted.
- Incorrect installation of the tire on the rim. Very often, even experienced tire fitters ignore the rules for installing a tire and place it at random, resulting in the formation of an additional inertial moment. It is important to remember that the location of the hole for the spool on the disk must coincide with the special mark on the tire.
- Improper wheel alignment when installed on a vehicle axle, which occurs due to improper tightening of wheel bolts or nuts.
In order not to encounter the unpleasant consequences of incorrect balancing described at the beginning of the article, it is recommended to carefully monitor the work of tire fitters. It should be noted that qualified specialists will always show diagnostic data on the display and, if necessary, will start the machine again so that the client can be convinced of the quality of the work performed.