Chicago Pneumatic Adds New Wrench Combo to BlueTork Range

Chicago Pneumatic has released details of its new model CP7600, which the company says will revolutionise the heavy-duty wheel changing process. The machine combines the functions of an impact and a torque wrench in one product: why take two wrenches into the workshop, indeed? The company is a global leader in the design, manufacture and distribution of innovative aftermarket tools, accessories and compressors. Its BlueTork range is designed to be the most advanced family of wheel fastening tools in the aftermarket industry today.

Chicago Pneumatic also offers the option of customisation, with each new product engineered to the user’s requested torque setting at the CP factory, saving time, money and energy by achieving a precise tightening the first time. Paul Humphreys, global communications manager for Chicago Pneumatic Vehicle Service Division states that, “The CP7600 replaces two wrenches, bringing the process of wheel tightening into a whole new world of safety for both mechanics and end users by assuring no under- or over-tightening of bolts, which can cause wheels to break loose from their mounts.” The division launched the BlueTork line in 2006 and added improvements and modifications to the new assortment this year.

The CP7600 is available in four versions: the base model that has one torque setting in forward only; the CP7600R with one torque setting in forward and reverse; the CP7600-4P which features four torque settings in forward only; and the CP7600R-4P, featuring four torque settings in forward and reverse. The torque specifications can be preset to fleet requirements from 400-650 ft/lbs. In addition to a low weight for easy handling, the CP7600 range features a simple swing bar reaction mechanism for easy alignment and quick operation.

The entire CP BlueTork range consists of torque-limiting (shut off), vibration-free, low-noise pneumatic and electric runners, and wheel assembly machines. The tools enable technicians to re-set torque and angle specifications for each use, providing accurate, precise tightening to the original equipment manufacturer’s guidelines.

Chicago Pneumatic developed and introduced the BlueTork line in response to bus maintenance facilities’ need for the right tool to aid in the critical procedure of wheel tightening. Atlas Copco, Chicago Pneumatic’s parent company and a leading global provider of screw tightening systems to automotive original equipment manufacturers, provided key knowledge and experience in developing the BlueTork line. The end product married those performance needs with user-friendly attributes.

Additionally, BlueTork tools were designed for the health and safety of the user. They are ergonomically designed and offer reduced noise and vibration, and low-effort operation. BlueTork products record data including torque, angle, time and date with serial numbers and operator information if necessary, providing an added sense of security through proper documentation of accurate tightening.

BlueTork is designed to help commercial truck and bus technicians service vehicles, achieving their original, blueprint torque specifications. The range’s tool assortment also includes torque and angle measuring equipment, computer controlled tightening wrenches and precision measuring tools.

Additionally, the company has created a website dedicated to the BlueTork range – available in English, French, Spanish, Italian, Swedish, German and Finnish – which contains information on legislation and correct fastening practices.