Mercedes-Benz dealer orders four Haweka aligners

A Mercedes-Benz commercial vehicle dealer covering the North East of England has invested in four Haweka Axis200-2 wheel aligners, turn plates and car kits. Bell Truck and Van in Billingham, Gateshead, Longbenton and Spennymoor says the investment will enable them “to help customers save costs on fuel and tyres”. The dealer group purchased the aligners from Haweka after seeing a demonstration of the equipment in their workshops.

The Axis200-2 alignment system is used throughout Europe, taking less than 10 minutes to measure accurately each angle on a truck in the as-driven position, with no lifting necessary. Bell Truck and Van will use the equipment on its range of vehicles, ranging from the Mercedes-Benz Vito Van to the large twin-steer Actros trucks.

Gavin Hewitt, general service manager said: ”Bell Truck and Van purchased the Axis200-2 aligners in July this year and already we are seeing the benefits. Our workshops have cut down on customer’s vehicle idle time waiting on a third party to come out and check the tracking. Dealers who do not have the Haweka alignment equipment are missing a real opportunity when removing any steering parts as the vehicle should have its tracking adjusted.”

“The aligners compliment the professional service to our customers who are reporting improved driving straight away without the vehicle pulling to one side.”

The Axis200-2 is used by Bell Truck and Van on average 15 times a week. The dealer says the aligner helps “to generate profits and keep the cash flow within Bell Truck and Van, replacing the need for a third party to check tracking.”

Haweka says that correct alignment helps to extend tyre life and improve fuel consumption – one degree of misalignment can increase fuel consumption by 5 per cent, according to the aligner supplier.  Emissions are also reduced, there is less wear and tear on mechanical components, drivers report reduced fatigue and tyres are less likely to overheat.