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Hoffman Geoliner 550 Alignment Machine

Robbie

By Robbie
in Automotive Shop Tools & Equipment

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Robbie

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We're about to buy our first alignment machine. We've done front-end work for years, but we've always outsourced the alignments. We're looking at a Hoffman GeoLiner 550 at the recommendation of a local equipment dealer. Has anyone used one that might know the pros and cons? Does anyone have an opinion about Hoffman equipment in general? I guess they're owned by snapon. Does anyone have any other recommendations for alignment equipment?

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Spence Enthusiast

Spence

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I have not used the Hoffman 550.

 

I have used SnapOn, Bear and Hunter. I have been using Hunter for the past 35 years. I would steer clear of the target/camera systems for now.

 

I would also recommend training. There is a lot more to alignments then just camber, caster and toe!

 

Where are you located?

 

Spence

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Robbie Explorer

Robbie

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According to our equipment dealer who would also be servicing this system, Hoffman, John Beam, and Snap-On are all made by one company. Does that sound right?

 

 

I'd like to try a hunter, but from what everybody in the area says, it's nearly impossible to get the service guys to show up. Apparently the local service and sales reps for hunter in my area have had a pretty high turnover rate for some time.

 

 

Spence, why do you say to avoid the target/camera systems?

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Spence Enthusiast

Spence

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According to our equipment dealer who would also be servicing this system, Hoffman, John Beam, and Snap-On are all made by one company. Does that sound right?

 

I know Snap-on and John Beam are. I am not sure Hoffman is as well.

 

I'd like to try a hunter, but from what everybody in the area says, it's nearly impossible to get the service guys to show up. Apparently the local service and sales reps for hunter in my area have had a pretty high turnover rate for some time.

 

That may be but the Hunter equipment I have doesn't go down that often. Our guys don't treat it rough either. I've had Hunter service reps say my equipment looks less then a year old when it's over 5. Taking care of good equipment helps keep costs down and profits up,

 

Spence, why do you say to avoid the target/camera systems?

 

They have issues in my opinion. I like... no require accurate readings. I have tested both the Hunter and the John Beam/Snap-on and found them to read improperly. Surprisingly both companies have the same fault. I expect in the near future it may be corrected. Until then I wouldn't own one. Their readings also drift to much for my liking.

 

It's a shame but the public doesn't know this. The BIG push has been for speed in getting the so called "reading for the print out". These readings only have about 25% of what a real alignment readings should have. Marketing to the masses and they are being lead to slaughter.

 

 

With the high number of auto service places jumping at these camera machines you should be able to get a good used alignment machine at a good price. Even if you have it overhauled and made like new you'll have a better piece of equipment for less.

 

Hope that answered your question. If not then hit me up.

 

Spence

 

 

 

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Robbie Explorer

Robbie

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With the high number of auto service places jumping at these camera machines you should be able to get a good used alignment machine at a good price. Even if you have it overhauled and made like new you'll have a better piece of equipment for less.

 

Hope that answered your question. If not then hit me up.

 

Spence

 

That makes sense. Thanks for the insight. We're getting bids on Hoffman machines from a couple of places and then we're going to talk to hunter. I appreciate all the advice.

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