TheGlods

For what it is worth...

I purchased a new Hawkeye Elite Alignment Machine, Road Force Balancer and Revolution Tire machine in December 2014.

Personally, I was most excited about the tire machine. I had visions of being a recommended installer for Tire Rack and a go to place for people wanting specialized rims and tires for the cars.... I am not a mechanic.

All of my mechanics and wholesale accounts (other shops without an aligment machine) are most excited about the aligner. I have no experience with any other units, but I will say my mechanics have more than 25 years experience and they love the aligner the most.

DG

Thanks for the replies.

I decided to go ahead with all 3 pieces of equipment. I am still in negotiations with the sale rep. We have a 5 bay shop and wish to have the alignment rack moved from the 3rd bay to the 1st bay because it is much deeper and the rack in the 1st bay moved to the 3rd bay.

As long as they will deal with that with the prices quotes I received, I will move forward.

The Hunter rack specialist stopped by and recommended I replace the cables during the moves. This will cost approximately, $1,000. I feel this is probable a good idea given the rack is 6 years old.

I will post pictures when it is complete. I hope to have it all done before the first of the year.

Sincerely,

DG

Thanks for the responses.

I feel like the update to the alignment machine is a no brainer.

If it isn't too much to ask...are you going to finance, lease or pay cash?

Thanks again.

DG

Hello,

I recently had the Hunter folks in to give me a demo on the Revolution Tire Machine, Road Force Balancer, and the HawkEye Alignment Machine).

We are a five bay three man shop.

We have a Hunter Alignment Machine that works but it is an older unit. We have two old coats machines for tires and balancing.

I would love to replace all of this with the newest equipment but as all of you know the cost is very high.

I was wondering if anyone is willing to share their experience with making a large purchase like this as a package deal. Also, did you finance it, do a lease program or buy it with cash? Was it worth it? Are you happy with the equipment? In hindsight would you be willing to try another less expensive brand (i.e. Coats Leverless Tire Machine or Atlas Cyclops Alignment)?

Any guidance is greatly appreciated.

Sincerely,

DG

Our basic rate is derived by using a standard formula in the industry to make a 60% gross profit on fully loaded tech cost. The tweaks are based upon some marketing considerations(Brake work, state inspections), difficulty of the work(oil change services, fluid services - lower, diagnostic - higher). This is an attempt to be competitive on services that are "Marketed" in our area and also to maximize revenue in areas that are less price sensitive and/or more difficult. It is a "First Step" in the process.

Hi,

Noobie here. I was wondering if you utilize any type of incentive compensation for your techs. How would these different labor rates impact their incentive compensation.

Any guidance is appreciated.

DG