Wheel balancers are essential tools for auto repair shops, but they can encounter problems that can disrupt daily operations. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive guide to help you understand common trouble-error codes that you may encounter while using a wheel balancer, and how to fix them.
A wheel balancer is a critical tool for auto repair shops that ensures the proper balance of a tire and wheel assembly. While wheel balancers are built to last, they can still experience problems, especially if they are not maintained or calibrated properly. The most common problems with wheel balancers are trouble-error codes, which can disrupt the balancing process and lead to inaccurate results. In this article, we will provide a guide to help you understand these codes and how to fix them.
Trouble-error code list
When the wheel balancer displays a hint of error, can follow the consult below list to remove the trouble:
| Code | meanings | cause | remedy |
| Err 1 | principal axis notspin or have notspin signal | 1. motor fault2. position sensor fault3. power supply board fault4. computer board fault5. connection-peg untouched | 1. change motor2. change the position sensor3. change the power supplyboard4. change the computer board5. check cable connections |
| Err 2 | The rotation islower than 60r/min | 1. position sensor fault2. wheel not impacting orweight too light3. motor fault4. driving belt too loose or tootighten5. computer board fault | 1. change the position sensor2. repeat impacting wheel3. change motor4. adjust the driving beltelasticity5. change the computer board |
| Err 3 | Miscalculation | too high imbalance | Repeat the self-calibrationchange computer board |
| Err 4 | principal axisWrong rotationdirection | 1. position sensor fault2. computer board fault | 1. change the position sensor2. change the computer board |
| Err 5 | Protection hoodnot lay down | 1. when pressing the START key，The protection hood does not lay down2. jiggle switch fault3. computer board fault | 1. follow the right methodoperation2. change the jiggle switch3. change the computer board |
| Err 6 | Sensor signaltransact circuit notworking | 1. power supply board fault2. computer board fault | 1. change the power supplyboard2. change the computer board |
| Err 7 | Loose date ofinterior | 1. Incorrect self-calibration2. computer board fault | 1. Repeat theself-calibration2. change the computer board |
| Err 8 | Self-calibrationmemory fault | 1. Do not put 100 grams on therim when self-calibration2. power supply board fault3. computer board fault4. press sensor fault5. connection-peg untouched | 1. follow the right method repeatself-calibration2. change the power supplyboard3. change the computer board4. change the press sensor5. check the cable connection |
Advantages and Disadvantages of Wheel Balancer Types: There are two main types of wheel balancers: the bubble wheel balancer and the computerized wheel balancer. The bubble wheel balancer is simple to use and inexpensive, but it is less accurate than the computerized wheel balancer. The computerized wheel balancer is more accurate and can detect multiple problems, but it is more expensive and requires more training to use.
How to Choose the Right Wheel Balancer: To choose the right wheel balancer, consider the size and volume of wheels you will be balancing, your budget, and your technicians’ skill level. If you are a small auto repair shop and only need to balance a few wheels per week, a bubble wheel balancer may be sufficient. However, if you are a larger shop that balances many wheels per day, you may need a computerized wheel balancer that can handle a high volume of work.
Conclusion: Wheel balancers are essential tools for auto repair shops, but they can encounter problems that can disrupt daily operations. Understanding common trouble-error codes and how to fix them is critical to ensuring that your wheel balancer is working correctly. Additionally, choosing the right wheel balancer for your shop’s needs can help improve productivity and accuracy. Regular maintenance and calibration of your wheel balancer will also help prevent issues and keep it in top condition.
Tire balancing is a crucial aspect of vehicle maintenance that often goes overlooked until it becomes a problem. With properly balanced tires, you’ll have a smooth and safe driving experience while preventing premature wear and tear. However, even experienced technicians can make mistakes during the balancing process, leading to issues down the road. Let’s explore some of the most common tire balancing mistakes to avoid, ensuring optimal performance and longevity for your vehicle.
Careless and Improper Weight Placement:
One of the most frequent mistakes made during tire balancing is careless or improper placement of weights. Placing weights haphazardly or in the wrong locations can result in ineffective balancing, leading to vibrations and uneven tire wear. To avoid this mistake, technicians should carefully follow the manufacturer’s specifications for weight placement and ensure that weights are securely attached to the wheel.
Mis-mounting the Wheel on the Balancer:
Mis-mounting the wheel on the balancer can also lead to inaccurate balancing results. It’s essential to properly mount the wheel onto the balancer according to the manufacturer’s instructions, ensuring that it sits securely and evenly. Failure to do so can result in imbalanced readings and potential safety hazards while driving.
Not Centering the Wheel on the Balancer:
Even if you mount the wheel on the balancer correctly, it might not be centered. When the wheel is not properly centered, it can lead to skewed readings and inaccurate weight placement. Technicians should take the time to ensure that the wheel is correctly positioned on the balancer before proceeding with the balancing procedure.
Failure to Validate the Wheel is Centered:
Even if technicians believe they have centered the wheel on the balancer, it’s essential to validate this assumption before proceeding with balancing. Using tools or techniques to confirm proper centering can help avoid potential errors and ensure accurate results.
Not Using a Flange Plate on a Clad Wheel:
Clad wheels, which feature a decorative covering over a steel or aluminum base, require special attention during the balancing process. Failing to use a flange plate when balancing a clad wheel can result in damage to the decorative covering or inaccurate balancing results. Technicians should always use a flange plate when working with clad wheels to protect the integrity of the wheel and ensure proper balancing.
Hidden Residual Static Imbalance:
Even after the initial balancing procedure, hidden residual static imbalance can remain, leading to vibrations and instability while driving. Technicians should be aware of this possibility and take steps to correct any residual imbalance to ensure a smooth and comfortable driving experience.
Not Correcting Residual Imbalance:
Simply failing to address residual imbalance can negate the effects of the balancing procedure and lead to ongoing issues with tire wear and performance. Technicians should thoroughly inspect the wheel and tire assembly for any signs of residual imbalance and take appropriate corrective action to resolve the issue.
Failure to Address RFV Eccentricity:
RFV (Radial Force Variation) eccentricity refers to variations in the stiffness of the tire’s sidewall, which can affect its balance and performance. Failure to address RFV eccentricity during the balancing process can result in uneven tire wear and handling issues. Technicians should be mindful of RFV eccentricity and take steps to minimize its impact on tire balance and performance.
Random Wheel-to-Vehicle Hub Mounting:
Mounting wheels randomly onto the vehicle hub without considering their specific orientation can also lead to balancing problems. This is one of the biggest tire balancing mistakes to avoid. Technicians should follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for wheel mounting to ensure optimal balance and performance.
Not Using Pin Plates:
Pin plates are essential tools for accurately centering wheels on the balancer and preventing slippage during the balancing process. Without pin plates, this can result in inaccurate readings and improper weight placement. Your technicians will get reliable and consistent results with pin plates.
Front Coning Instead of Back Coning:
Finally, incorrectly coning the wheel during the balancing process can also lead to balancing errors. Front coning, where the wheel is cone-mounted from the front, can result in inaccurate readings and improper weight placement. Technicians should use back coning techniques whenever possible to ensure accurate balancing results.
Proper tire balancing is essential for maintaining a smooth and safe driving experience while maximizing the lifespan of your tires. By learning about these tire balancing mistakes to avoid, you know to follow manufacturer recommendations, utilize appropriate tools, and double-check your work. Now you’re prepared to avoid these pitfalls and be a reputable mechanic in the area! Contact APO Garage Equipment today for more information.
