Supertracker Aims for “Moderate Budget” Wheel Alignment

Following what the company says was “a very successful 2008,” wheel alignment manufacturer Supertracker reports that it has maintained a good sales performance in the first quarter of this year. Recommending that garage and fast fit operators make wheel alignment an integral part of every customer visit, Supertracker is attempting to back up its assertion with a wide range of competitively-priced wheel alignment equipment ranges, making its systems available to as wide a portion of the market as possible.

Managing director Trevor Lovesy is aware of the need to reduce costs in the current fiscal climate: “Obviously the significant downturn in business has affected all market sectors – including the garage equipment market – with many companies looking to minimise business expenditure as much as possible. Fortunately because the Supertracker range is more reasonably priced than other wheel alignment equipment on the market we have not seen any reduction of interest for our products.”

Lovesy is keen to point out that, through a flexible product range, Supertracker is able to cater for every possible market requirement within its four-wheel alignment product base, which can measure every one of the thirteen alignment angles. The most popular aligners in the Supertracker range are the laser models, though the company notes that recently some customers with laser aligners are switching to the STR200 and STR400 models. In Supertracker’s words, these models act as a link between the company’s entry level aligner and its ‘top of the range’ Wintrac’ model. The STR400 provides a full colour print-out, an extensive customer database, eight-sensor technology, instant caster, camber and toe measurement plus full colour graphics, Linux industrial computer technology. It also has the ability to accommodate various wheel sizes from 12” to 24”.

The 2009 version of the STR200 offers instant front and rear toe and camber readings, digital readouts and radio transmission. It is also described as one of the company’s more cost effective options, which allows owners to offer their customers a printed alignment report as part of their professional service package. Included in the revamped STR200 is a software package that offers faster processing and compatibility, alongside a 17” monitor to display live wheel alignment data. The software allows the optional input of customer and vehicle details, besides the standard printable before and after readings.

The wheel alignment system manufacturer recommends that Tyres should be checked visually for uneven wear and customers asked if they have noticed any handling problems, such as whether the steering wheel is straight when the car is driven. Offering such a free inspection service will generate income, the company adds.

So what equipment needs to be purchased? The first thing to establish, says Supertracker, is that much misleading advice has been given by some equipment suppliers. Make sure, the company adds, that the supplier has your interests at heart, not its own. Does the supplier stock a complete range, from entry level to top line? One fact Supertracker makes note of is that every manufacturer of wheel aligners produces equipment that will measure vehicles accurately. Potential purchasers need to focus upon the specific features and benefits of each item of equipment.

Lovesy continues, “Providing the right type of wheel aligner for a business is just the beginning of what our ‘service package’ offers Supertracker’s ever-growing client base. We also provide an on-site equipment service and calibration facility as well as certified training courses for all levels of tuition, ranging from new owners right through to more advanced programmes for the more experienced garage technician.”

He concludes, “We are currently in the middle of a tough trading period but at Supertracker we firmly believe we have the right quality wheel aligners at the right price to ensure aspiring and determined companies can continue to offer a professional service to their customers.