Hunter Engineering has recently released data that illustrates difficult tire and wheel fitment trends.

The data shows a considerable shift in growth of difficult tire and wheel assembly fitments throughout the last 28 years.

As per the trends, low-profile (45 series or lower), run-flat, large diameter (wheel size in excess of 20”), and heavy assemblies (overall diameter exceeds 30”) have been difficult to service.

The assemblies, ranging across multiple OEMs, now demand more skill from technicians who use conventional tire changers and traditional balancers.

“New assemblies demand accuracy as well,” says Pete Liebetreu, Vice President of Marketing, Hunter Engineering. “They can be sensitive to vibration and damage during service. The best equipment and best equipped shops are better able to handle these additional requirements with easy mounting, damage-free tire changers and accurate, weight-efficient, Road Force capable balancers.”

In a release by the company, Hunter Engineering says that difficult-to-service tires and wheels are increasingly becoming the norm. It is therefore crucial for automotive service providers to be equipped with the most advanced, OEM-derived technology available on the market today. This will allow equipment to eliminate the challenges being faced.

Hunter Engineering has released a Tire Changer Decision Guide to help find solutions.