Tire changer wheel machines are an excellent tool for any shop.
They make the process of changing a tire much easier and can typically do it in less time than it would take with just a jack and lug wrench. That is why every car owner (with multiple cars) and every automotive technician should have one on hand when working at their job site.
Tire changer machines come in all shapes, sizes, and price ranges.
With so many options available, we know it can be challenging to choose the best tire machine that suits your needs –we hope our buyer's guide helps make things easier.
Related: How To Use A Tire Changer Machine
Things To Consider Before Buying A Tire Machine
Space Available
The first thing to consider is whether you have the space available for a tire changer.
Typically, tire changer machines are large and bulky pieces of equipment that can take up a lot of room in your shop or garage, while others are more compact – so make sure there's enough room for the machine you will purchase.
Purpose
What will you be using the machine for?
If you plan on only changing your own tires, a smaller and more compact machine may be best. If you plan on using it for a business, you will need a larger tire changer and can handle heavier workloads.
Budget
How much are you willing to spend on a tire changer machine?
Tire changer wheel machines come in all price ranges, so there is one sure to fit your budget.
Keep in mind that the more expensive machines typically offer more features and are built with higher-quality materials. However, there are many affordable options available as well.
Type of Tire Changer Machine
There are three main types of tire changer machines: manual, semi-automatic, and automatic;
- Manual – This type is the most basic type of tire changer. It requires you to use your strength to change the tires.
- Semi-automatic – This type is a step up from the manual and uses an air compressor or hydraulic cylinder to help change the tires.
- Automatic – This type is the most advanced and uses a series of motors and sensors to change the tires automatically.
- Combo machines
Manual machines require more effort to use, while hydraulic ones are easier but cost a bit more money.
Ease of Use
Is the machine easy to use? How intuitive are the controls?
Some machines are more user-friendly than others, so it's essential to read reviews and ask questions before you make your purchase. You want something that is easy to use, so you don't have to spend a lot of time trying to figure it out.
Also, consider how you will be using it and who else (if anyone) might use it. If multiple people will be operating the machine at once, find one with an adjustable handle or swivel head so everyone can have their comfortable position when working with it.
The weight of the machine also matters. Some are very heavy and can be challenging to move around, while others are lightweight and easy to transport.
Tire Size Capacity
Not all tire changer machines can change every size of tire. ie trailer tires will be smaller than truck tires. See also our article on the best utility trailers.
Some machines are limited to a specific size, while others can handle a broader range of sizes.
Before buying one, make sure it can perform tire changes for the wheels you have on your vehicle(s). If it's for your tire shop, make sure it can handle a variety of tire size diameters to sort your clients' needs.
Additional Features
Some tire changer wheel machines come with extra features that are even more helpful. For instance, some have a tankless air compressor built in to inflate tires (and also comes with a gauge), a top power-assist bead breaker roller, air pressure regulator, a spring-assisted tool shaft, or a wheel balancer. Others may include additional tools like a loading arm which can make the process of changing tires much more effortless.
9 Of The Best Tire Machines On The Market
The Ranger R980AT Single Tower Swing-Arm Tire Changer
The R980AT is a smaller and more streamlined tire changer that saves space in your shop. The machine has an easy tire loading arm design, but it doesn't tilt back. it has a 30" tire clamping ability and features a premium assist tower to help unseat stiff, low-profile tire beads and run-flat tires while holding them securely within a centered position with its centering cone - this protects the tire especially when clamping the tire from the outside.
The space-saving R980AT Ranger tire changer is a great addition for busy repair bays. It accommodates a wide range of tire & wheel combinations and can take care of virtually all the jobs that come in. It is easy to use and work on, allowing anyone who uses it to get the job done quickly.
Specs & Features
- Tire Changer Protection
- Electric turntable
- Swing-in bottom helper disc
- Updated electric motor
- Enhanced bead-breaker blade
- Pneumatic control valves
- Adjustable RimGuard™ wheel clamps
See the entire Range tire machines.
Tuxedo TC-400M-B Tire Machine
The Tuxedo Motorcycle tire changer wheel machine uses an electric table operation. It has a powerful side-mount bead breaker that dismounts even the toughest beads and a demount head with plastic protectors to keep the wheel from being damaged. The machine can clamp and change tires on motorcycle tires, cars, small trucks, ATV tires, and even some golf carts tires.
The TC-400M-B was explicitly designed for ATVs/motorcycle repair shops. It is equipped with unique motorcycle wheel clamps and a robust square turntable to take the hassle out of wheel repairs.
Specs & Features
- Best-in-class weight capacity of 400 lbs.
- Easy one-person operation.
- Powerful side mount bead breaker.
- Easy-to-use foot pedal operation.
- Adjustable clamp seat.
- Four pneumatic clamps & double-acting cylinders
Leverless Tire Changer Wheel Machine
The RV1 touchless tire changer is the future of auto repair. Innovative and fast, this unit breaks beads and swaps out your tires in minutes without ever having to get your hands dirty!
It features the latest wheel-changing technology to provide your shop with the best equipment possible.
No more struggling with tire irons and levers!
The RV-series changers can handle any wheel and tire combination without damaging the rim or requiring clumsy toolbars, bead locks, or tire levers.
No More Heavy Lifting
The integrated wheel lift has easy-guide rollers that help the user handle both light and heavy wheels. It eliminates and reduces the risk of operator injury and fatigue. This machine is perfect for shops that want to change tires quickly and easily without hassles.
This Touchless Wheel Changer is a durable everyday performer with overall flexibility that allows you to service a wide variety of wheels, including OEM configurations, run-flat tires, and exotic performance wheels.
It has a maximum wheel diameter clamping range of 13" – 30" and a maximum wheel width of 15" wide.
Specs & Features
- Automatic bead breaker rollers.
- Power-drop assist roller.
- Ergonomic joystick control.
- Power-assisted drop-center arm.
- Precision actuator.
- Tire Inflation System.
- Inflation Pressure Regulator/Limiter.
- Quick-release wing nut.
Se the Touchless Ranger RV1 Wheel Tire Changer here.
Nationwide NW-530 Tire Changer & NW-953 Wheel Balancer Combo
The NW-530 Nationwide tire changer is a perfect option for busy tire shops on a tight budget.
While the tire installer is fairly basic, it has some helpful extra features, such as a water separator, a swing arm style, a pressure regulator, a side-mounted bead breaker, inflation jets, and lubricators make it one of the best in the class.
The NW-953 tire balancer also has quite a few extra essential features;
- It is self-calibrating.
- A diagnostics program that most balancers do not have.
- Multiple balancing modes for different types of wheels.
- Multi-operator mode.
The tire changer works on a 10" -23" rim diameter and a wheel width of 12" while the balancer works on a 1.5" -20" wide wheel and up to 39" diameter tire.
Ranger R80EX Tilt Back Tire Changer With Dual-Tower Assist
The R80EX tire changer is designed with the latest industry tools and features, so it's a perfect choice for any mechanic. With this machine, you'll get classic rugged reliability that comes from Ranger in addition to dozens of premium functions.
The Ranger R80EX is an invaluable tire changer that will help you service all of your customers' needs with ease. With a multi-profile traveling drop center tool, a nylon non-marring wheel restraint device, top bead assist rollers, dual lower beading discs, and a tilt-back design, this powerful device dramatically reduces operator effort and fatigue, and increases safety.
The R80EX is built to last with an adjustable hardened steel Rim Guard wheel clamp and a large 34" capacity turntable. This means that you can handle virtually any wheel, no matter how big or small it may be!
Specs & Features
- Advanced clamp positioning
- A bilateral power-controlled bead loosener
- Adjustable bead loosener shovel blade
- Pneumatic control valves & Pneumatic tubing
- An Advanced drive belt system
- Stainless steel and aluminum pneumatic cylinders
- Multi-function mount and demount head
- Spring-assisted tool shaft
See our Ranger R80EX Tilt Back Tire Changer.
Hofmann Monty 1520M Swing Arm Tire Changer
The Hofmann monty 1520m is the go-to for all types of motorcycle and ATV tires with a maximum width of up to 13 inches. The device can handle anything from 10in.- 12 in diameter and has an option ATV clamping jaw that can clamp down 7-inch wheels. It also comes equipped with standard jaws that allow changing automotive or light truck tires as well.
It also features Easymont Pro features, including a pressing foot, a top roller, and a lifting disc. These features provide specialized functions that assist in mounting tires or demounting them. It works well on both low-profile tires and high-performance tires.
This wheel mountable machine has everything your small business needs in one place - it's got workhorse credentials built right into its design and will be sure to provide years of motorcycle tire-changing services for your shop.
Specs & Features
- Dual Pneumatic Wheel Clamping Cylinders
- Four-Jaw Clamping Chuck
- Powerful Two-Position Bead Breaker
- Powerful Tire Inflation System
- Switch Speed control
- Adjustable - Sliding Jaw
Heavy-Duty Tire Changer Machine, With Joystick Control
The R26FLT Tire Ranger is an incredibly powerful truck tire changer designed for use in commercial and industrial settings. With a joystick control, this machine makes it easy for one operator to quickly and easily change any size or type of truck tire, from large tubeless truck tires to agricultural, buses, RVs, off-road tires, and everything in between.
You can easily swap out tires from 14" to 26" in just minutes!
"The R26FLT Tire Ranger boasts aluminum-alloy air cylinders and completely sealed components. It is one of the hardiest, rugged tools that will last for long in your shop. It will take whatever punishment is thrown at them."
The portable remote control adds convenience, precision, and safety to the operators' fingertips. With all the extra features, the R26FLTTire Ranger covers all the crucial aspects of truck changing wheel services to help you perform large tire changes in the shortest time possible.
With its speed, capability, and dependability, this heavy-duty tire changer is perfect for extra busy tire shops.
Specs & Features
- Self-centering hydraulic clamping chuck.
- Bi-directional super-duty electric hydraulic motor & hydraulic drive.
- Sturdy spindle, chuck & mount / demount head.
- Designed to perform and built to last.
- Rugged enough to hold up for years of low-maintenance service.
- The welded steel body is just the start: this tire changer.
- Hydraulic sled carriage for positioning, bead loosening, mounting/demounting procedures.
- Ergonomic design for more effortless operation.
- Huge spindle to handle the heaviest loads.
Dannmar DT-50A Tire Changer & MB-240X Wheel Balancer Combo
The Dannmar wheel balancer combo is an excellent option for people looking for an affordable yet high-quality tire changer machine.
The DT -50A tire changer is equipped with an assist arm to load wheels fast. The steel clamps and 26" maximum tire diameter are perfect for changing the tires on most daily commuters, wheel spares, and trucks. The power-assist tower helps you easily replace lower-profile performance tires with stiff sidewalls.
The non-tilt back design allows the Dannmar tire changer and wheel balancer combo to be installed flush against the wall, saving space. It's an ideal option if you don't have a lot of room to spare in your shop.
The Dannmar MB-240X manual wheel balancer is very accurate and dependable. It uses the proprietary Digital Sensor Technology that automatically determines the exact weight needed for optimal wheel balance.
Together, the Dannmar DT-50A tire changer and MB-240X wheel balancer combo provide great value for the money. You get an accurate, reliable wheel balancer and a high-quality tire changer for a fraction of the cost of other combos on the market.
- Conveniently mounted controls for ease of use.
- High torque electric turntable
- Inflation gauge with integrated air dump valve
- High-pressure polyurethane pneumatic tubing
- Aluminum pneumatic cylinders
- Single-assist tower and a turbo-blast bead seater
Atlas Heavy, Super Duty, Truck Tire Changer
The Atlas truck tire changer is a super-duty machine designed for use in high-volume commercial and industrial settings. With a clamping force of over 13, 173 lbs, it can easily handle even the largest and most difficult truck tires.
It is engineered to handle rim sizes ranging from 4 1/4″ to 56″ and a tire wheel diameter in excess of over 90″. Perfect for off-road tires, super single tires, agricultural tires, skidder tires, and much more
- Electric/hydraulic operated self-centering four jaw chuck
- Bead Breaker & mount/demount Head
- Alloy rim protectors & plastic protective covers
Benefits Of A Tire Changer Machine
Save Money, Time, and Effort
Every business has expenses, and tire changers can be a great investment. If you are looking to improve the speed of your work, then this is an easy way to do so without sacrificing quality or damage control. Many models feature PBS (Pneumatic bead seating), which makes mounting much faster than older versions that require inflation with air compressors.
Some changers even come with a built-in compressor making it an all-in-one solution. Not to mention the time and money you save from not having to take your car or truck to a specialized tire shop.
Increase Efficiency & Profitability
In addition to the time saved, a tire changer machine can also increase your efficiency and overall profitability. By speeding up the process, you're able to take on more jobs in a day which means more money in your pocket at the end of the week.
Choosing a tire changer that has premium features suitable for your auto shop or garage creates a faster workflow with less effort on your part and your crew.
Precision is key when it comes to changing tires, and that's why many business owners choose to invest in a machine. A good tire changer guarantees that the process will be done efficiently and correctly, the first time, without any damage to the rim or the sidewall of the tire.
Keep Operators Less Fatigued
The tire changer machine helps reduce fatigue for all personnel involved. The old manual methods were tedious, time-consuming, and tiring on the body, which means crew members are less likely to develop carpal tunnel or other repetitive stress injuries.
Using a tire-changing machine prevents strain on arms by constantly lifting heavy tires that can weigh hundreds of pounds. It also prevents operators from repeatedly bending over for extended periods, which can lead to back pain and other health issues.
Improves Safety
There's less risk of injury when using a tire changer machine. It eliminates the need for you or your crew members to work with heavy tires that are difficult to handle, leading to accidents or injuries.
The machine helps to keep everyone organized and safe while they are working. It's a great way to avoid potential problems that could occur when changing tires manually.
Consistent Results
A tire changer machine guarantees that the job will be done the same way each time. This is important for businesses who want to ensure their customers are always happy with the results and maintain a good reputation in the community.
A tire changer machine provides consistent and accurate work each and every time, making customers more likely to return for future services.
Best Tire Changers; FAQ's
What should I look for when buying a tire machine?
If you are looking for a tire changer for commercial use, you will want to buy a machine that is sturdy and reliable, one that can fit a wide variety of tire sizes and can handle low-profile tires as well. A tire machine with a small footprint will do the job for home use.
How do you not scratch rims on a tire machine?
You can do a few things to protect your rims when using a tire machine. Ensure the clamps on the machine are securely in place and use the protective rim shields that come with most machines. You can also use masking tape or rubber bands around the edge of the wheel to protect it from scratches further.
What are some common mistakes when using a tire machine?
People's most significant mistake while changing tires is not centering the wheel in front of the clamps before locking them down. If you don't center your wheel, it can cause the machine to tilt and damage the rim. Make sure the wheel is straight before clamping down on the clamps.
Also, avoid over-inflating your tires when using a tire machine. Over-inflation can cause the rubber to burst or split. Follow the instructions that come with your machine for the proper tire inflation.
Is it better to buy a manual or an automatic tire machine?
It really depends on your needs and preferences. Manual tire machines are cheaper than automatic ones, but they require more physical effort to use them. Automatic tire changers usually come with several features that will save you time and energy when working with tires.
What is the best type of tire machine for a small shop?
Small shops typically don't have a lot of space, so you want to make sure that the tire machine is small and compact. Tire changers that use a single tower swing-arm are more streamlined than those with a tilt-back design.
How do you maintain a tire machine?
Make sure to do regular maintenance on your tire machine. The manufacturer should provide you with a manual that outlines the process for proper care and maintenance of the product. Be sure to familiarize yourself with this information so as to maintain maximum performance from your equipment.
What type of oil should be used in a tire machine?
Most machines come with their own specific type of oil, so it is important to follow the instructions that come with your machine. In general, though, most oils are synthetic or mineral-based. You don't want to use an oil that is too thick or too thin--it should have a viscosity similar to motor oil.
Final Thoughts
Whether you are looking to own a tire installer and balancer for your home garage or shop, there are plenty of benefits to owning one of these machines. It is an investment that will save you time and money in the long run and make you more money on the side.
Make sure you consider the needs of your business when making your purchase, and be sure to ask lots of questions before buying. The team at Landmark Tools is always happy to help!
You may also be interested in our wheel balancing machines for cars and trucks.
