Catalogue 1 - Tech Europe

balance
weight
technology
Leaders in balance weight innovation and design,
Made in UK to Original Equipment Standards
Contents
Zinc clip-on weights for cars & vans
for steel wheels
for alloy wheels
4
5
Steel clip-on weights for cars & vans
for steel wheels TRAXLOK®
for alloy wheels
Why use steel for balance weights?
6
7
8
Adhesive strips & rolls
Steel strips (standard)
Steel strips (special)
TRAXSOFT®
Steel adhesive rolls
9
10
11
12
Steel adhesive Original Equipment
13
Truck weights
14
Balancing Compound, Valves, Motorsport 15
Motorcycle weights
16
Assortment boxes
17
Packaging
18
Technical Information
Essential guidance for fitting adhesive
weights to new alloy rims
Using uncoated zinc weights
Guide for fitting adhesive weights
Tyre compound application
Tyre compound user chart
19
20
21
22
23
Leading the way in balance
weight manufacture…
2
From its origins in 1989, the TRAX® brand is recognised as
one of the world’s leading balance weight manufacturers.
Supplying both Original Equipment and aftermarkets, the
company has continued to develop class-leading balance
weight designs and manufacturing in the UK.
The company invented the CAM-BACK™ weight, widely regarded as the best solution available
for universal fitment to steel wheels. Now, continuing to pioneer the use of lead-free materials,
TRAX® has invented the TRAX-LOK® process, incorporating the CAM-BACK™ solution to enable
the manufacture of steel clip-on weights. Exporting to over 25 countries and with a subsidiary in the
USA, TRAX® is an international business.
Suppliers to Original Equipment
TRAX® wins and retains Original Equipment (OE) business on the strength of its product design
and quality. TRAX® has also supplied lead-free balance weights to Formula 1, GP2 and MotoGP
racing worldwide.
The company has a wide range of problem solving and consultancy skills in product design
and manufacture.
TRAX® brand - OE design and quality built in
The TRAX® brand means you get OE levels of design expertise and quality. TRAX® is widely
recognised to represent customer service, superior product design, and consistent quality.
This is even more relevant in today’s markets with low quality, low cost weights readily available.
Designed to be universal in application, TRAX® weights are accepted as a brand leader in
many markets.
CAM-BACK™
3
balance
weight
technology
Clip-on weights for cars & vans
Zn
Zinc clip-on weights for steel wheels
200X Universal CAM-BACK™ (uncoated)
CAM-BACK™ weights
Our most popular weight. The CAM-BACK™
design, invented by TRAX®, ensures the weight
fits the widest range of steel wheels and ensures
maximum retention. See ‘The benefits’ article to
left for more information. Uncoated.
The benefits
1
2
Size range: 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60g
Box quantities: 5/30g 100pcs/box; 35/60g 50pcs/box
3
1. SAFETY – The top cam increases the
force required to remove the weight which
ensures it will not fall away from the rim.
2. RETENTION – The bottom cam forces
the weight body away from the rim thereby
opening the spring clip and significantly
increasing retention. This increased
retention ensures no movement of the
weight on thin section rims which can
cause imbalance.
200C Universal CAM-BACK™ weight
(plastic coated)
200C with added plastic coating to OE
standards. Approved by Renault and Volvo.
Size range: 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60g
Box quantities: 5/30g 100pcs/box; 35/60g 50pcs/box
3. SLIMLINE – The slimline shape allows
good wheel trim clearance.
207C Special weight for RENAULT steel
wheels (plastic coated)
Heavy braking can make weights slide
around the rim causing imbalance and wheel
vibration. CAM-BACK™ weights eliminate
this problem by giving the highest retention
and a universal fitment across heavy duty
and thin section rims.
Developed for RENAULT the series 207C to
fit steel rims 5 to 25g with improved fit and
retention. The 5g is made of steel and Clip-only.
The CAM-BACK™ design for maximum safety &
retention. Plastic coated to OE standards.
Size range: 5, 10, 15, 20, 25g
without CAM-BACK™
with CAM-BACK
™
Coated or uncoated weights?
Uncoated zinc weights have been widely
fitted on steel wheels across Europe
(including Scandinavia) since 2005.
Over 80% of weights sold for steel wheels
have been uncoated.
Please see page 20 for more details
Box quantities: 25 weights per box
222C Special weight for thin section steel
wheels (plastic coated)
Developed with Ford, the series 222C gives high
levels of retention on thin section steel wheels.
The weight is designed to fit rim horns typically
down to 1.5mm thickness. The CAM-BACK™
design is incorporated for maximum safety &
retention. Plastic coated to OE standards.
Size range: 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60g
Box quantities: 25 weights per box
840C Special weight for heavy duty steel
wheels (plastic coated)
This weight is designed to fit heavy duty steel
wheels as found on light trucks up to 3.5 tonnes
(eg Ford Transit, MB Sprinter, Renault
Trafic, VW Transporter) Plastic coated to
OE standards.
Zn
Zinc clip-on weights for alloy wheels
326C Universal weight for alloy wheels
(plastic coated)
Alloy wheel fitment guide
Designed to fit most European cars with rim
horns 4.5/6.5mm thick. Approved by Volvo and
Renault. For thicker rims (as found on some
Japanese cars) the series 340C is recommended.
Plastic coated to OE standards.
Alloy wheel rim horns will vary significantly
in shape, height and depth. Each car
manufacturer can have a different alloy rim
shape depending on the rim manufacturer.
Wide tolerances are allowed within
ETRTO specifications.
Size range: 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60g
Box quantities: 5/30g 100 pcs/box; 35/60g 50 pcs/box
Also available in 25 pcs/box
For guidance only.
Rim Section
326X Universal weight for alloy wheels
(uncoated)
Designed to fit most European cars with rim
horns 4.5/6.5mm thick.
Size range: 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60g
Box quantities: 5/30g 100 pcs/box; 35/60g 50 pcs/box
326C
340C
340C Japanese and thick section alloy
wheels (plastic coated)
Designed to fit thicker section alloy rim horns
6.5/7.5mm, as found on many Japanese cars,
Nissan, Honda and Toyota. Plastic coated
to OE standards.
a
Typical
dimension
of (a)
326C Universal Weight 4.5/6.5mm
340C Japanese/heavy
section
6.6/7.5mm
Size range: 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50g
Box quantities: 25 weights per box
324C High retention CAM-BACK weight
for alloy wheels (plastic coated)
™
Outside these ranges adhesive weights
are recommended.
Developed with Ford for high levels of retention
on alloy wheels. The CAM-BACK™ design opens
the clip for improved retention. Plastic coated to
OE standards.
Size range: 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60g
Box quantities: 25 weights per box
328C Weight for alloy wheels for RENAULT
30-60g (plastic coated)
Developed with RENAULT to fit alloy rims 30g
and over with improved fit and retention. For 25g
and below use 326C.
Size range: 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60g
Box quantities: 25 weights per box
Size range:
10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 70, 80, 90g
Box quantities: 25 weights per box
4
5
balance
weight
technology
Fe
Steel clip-on weights for steel wheels
The most universal weight solution available
for European alloy wheels
Incorporates the TRAX® CAM-BACK™ solution
for maximum safety and retention
•
Fits more steel rims than any other balance weight
•
Made from STEEL – the best environmental and ecological solution
•
Slimline weight body design for wheel trim clearance
Fe
Steel clip-on weights for alloy wheels
A precision steel clip offering a higher
quality and more consistent spring than
is available with Zinc weights.
1
710C Universal steel weight
for alloy wheels
High quality appearance on alloy rims by
specially designed weight body and clip.
An engineered universal steel weight for
alloy wheels.
Design registrations Community Design No: 00126077-0001
European Patents applied for 09724199.6, 11164281.5
Plastic coated over zinc sacrificial plating
to OE standards for high levels of corrosion
resistance.
150C (plastic coated) / 150E (standard
coated)
Universal steel weight for steel
wheels TRAX-LOK™
Special clip
Stable, precise,
reliable
Safety
Upper cam
Size range: 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50g
Box quantities: 5/30g 100pcs/box; 35/50g 50pcs/box
Patent applications and design
registrations applied for
The most universal and advanced weight on
the market.
The unique TRAX-LOK™ design offers the highest
level of balance weight technology. Incorporating
the TRAX® CAM-BACK™ invention, this advanced
design is easy to fit and will give superior
retention.
150C: Plastic coated over zinc sacrificial plating
to OE standards for high levels of corrosion
resistance.
Retention
Bottom cam
2
3
The slimline weights is hidden
under the wheel rim ensuring
no damage or loosening when
hitting the kerb.
A special process has been incorporated
into the balance weight assembly to ensure
a uniquely strong clip bond with a high
degree of accuracy ensuring a constant
fitment every time.
Size range: 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50g
Box quantities: 5/30g 100pcs/box; 35/50g 50pcs/box
For easy fitting
Rounded clip
Good fit
Not recommended
CAR
Unsuitable
LIGHT TRUCK 3.5T
TRAX
SERIES
Thin Section
Mid Section Semi Roll
Thick Section Heavy Roll
Light Roll
150
200
222
840
6
7
balance
weight
technology
Why use steel for balance weights?
Adhesive strips & rolls
Steel adhesive strips - standard
Why use TRAX®
adhesive weights?
TRAX® adhesive strips have superior
corrosion resistance. Low quality
weights can be rusty when opened in
the original boxes. Top picture shows
a quality TRAX® adhesive weight
after salt spray corrosion testing.
Bottom picture shows a low quality
alternative.
Steel balance weights are used almost exclusively by car
manufacturers in the USA (since 2009) with Japan using steel
since 1999. Steel was preferred over zinc and composite
materials as it is considered the most suitable lead-free
material available when considering recyclability, ecology
(groundwater), density and cost. Steel (or iron) adhesive
weights are approved by FORD, VOLVO, LAND ROVER,
RENAULT, HONDA, TOYOTA.
In Europe, TRAX® has pioneered the use of steel as a material
for balance weights. Steel is the natural choice as a balance
weight material.
TRAX®
Low quality alternative
•
The best balance weight accuracy
•
More environmental than zinc or composite materials
weights & easier to recycle
•
The most ecological solution. Non-toxic & Easy on the
environment & groundwaters
•
Steel is the most commonly used material in car production
•
Steel is 20% more dense than zinc alloy and 40% more
dense than composite materials
•
Steel is not a commodity (unlike zinc), which encourages
more stable costs
605E-060-TX00 Slimline Universal
adhesive strip – 60g
3.8mm high x 19mm wide. High Quality Zinc
coating, oversized liner for easy application.
Also available in a 5kg roll. (605E-500-SP01).
Size range: 60g strip: 12x5g
Box quantities: 100 strips per carton. 610E-060-TX50 Slimline Universal
adhesive strip – 60g
605E 5g only strip
3.8mm high x 19mm wide. High Quality Zinc
coating, oversized liner for easy application.
Size range: 60g strip: 4x5g & 4x10g
Box quantities: 50 strips per box – 4 boxes per carton
200 strips per carton.
605C-060-TX50 Slimline Universal
adhesive strip – 60g (plastic coated)
3.8mm high x 19mm wide. High Quality plastic
coating, oversized liner for easy application.
Size range: 60g strip: 12x5g
Box quantities: 50 strips per box – 4 boxes per carton
200 strips per carton.
Also available boxed neutral, 100 strips
(605C-060-WH00)
High quality & easy to
use packaging
8
Fe
•
4 boxes of 50 strips in each carton – easy to
use and easy to stock and sell
•
TRAX® branding gives quality confidence
•
The 12Kg cartons are designed to be easily
lifted with minimum effort
610E universal strip
605C coated universal strip
9
balance
weight
technology
Steel adhesive strips - specials
620C-040-TX50 Extra slimline adhesive
strip 2.8mm high – 40g
2.8mm high, 19mm wide. High weight
recommended for use where caliper clearance
is a problem. High Quality powder coating,
oversized liner for easy application.
Size range: 40g strip 8x5g
Box quantities: 50 strips per box – 4 boxes per carton
200 strips per carton.
635C for black alloy wheels
635C-060-TX50 BLACK adhesive strip –
60g (for cars and motorcycles)
4.8mm high, 15mm wide. High Quality Black
powder coating, oversized liner for easy
application. A black plastic coated adhesive strip
ideal for black alloy wheels.
®
Fe
The new extra bond adhesive weight
solution – it will stick when other
weights are falling off
• Sticks better to poorly cleaned surfaces
• No water ingress under the tape – the soft foam fits on
non-smooth surfaces
• Higher bonding strength at elevated temperatures
• Can be fitted on cold alloy rims in winter - down to -5ºC
• High quality tape made in Germany by Lohmann
607C-060-TX50 BLACK Slimline Universal
adhesive strip – 60g
• Poor wheel cleaning
• Fitting on to cold rims (with condensation)
• Poor quality adhesive tape
For these reasons if you require an adhesive weight
which gives you the most reliable fitment then the
TRAX® 615C with LOHMANN tape is recommended.
The tape has a higher instant tack to the rims with
the softer foam allowing the weight to form better to
the rim and minimise water ingress underneath the
adhesive which can encourage the weight to fall of.
Size range: 60g strip 4x5g & 4x10g
Box quantities: 50 strips per box – 4 boxes per carton
200 strips per carton.
3.8mm high x 19mm wide. High Quality Black
powder coating, oversized liner for easy
application.
Size range: 60g strip: 12x5g
Box quantities: 50 strips per box – 4 boxes per carton.
200 strips per carton.
Adhesive weights can fall off for a number of
reasons:
In particular the LOHMANN tape can be fitted on
cold rims down to -5ºC. Typical “blue liner” adhesive
weights are not recommended for cold weather
use as the adhesive is designed to be used at room
temperatures with bonding levels significantly
reduced as temperatures fall.
Size range: 60g strip 4x5g & 4x10g
Box quantities: 50 strips per box – 4 boxes per carton
200 strips per carton.
607C for black alloy wheels
615C-060-TX 50 Premium steel adhesive
strip – 60g (plastic coated)
Also available in a 5kg roll. (616C-500-SP01).
With oversized liner for
easy liner removal
Fe
680C-100-TX10 Heavy duty adhesive strip
– 100g for Truck & 4x4
6,8mm high, 20mm wide. A heavy duty adhesive
weight for truck. 4x 25g sections made from
steel. Plastic coated with OE tape for high
adhesion of this heavy weight.
Size range: 100g strip 4x25g
Box quantities: boxed 10
Please see guidance for the
correct fitting of adhesive weights
– page 19, 21
BEST for non-smooth surfaces & for tyre shop winter fitting
ALLOY RIMS ARE NOT SMOOTH
Traditional “blue liner” adhesive tape foam is hard and sits
on top of non-smooth surfaces. This does not maximise
adhesion strength and can cause moisture to get underneath
the adhesive
TRAXSOFT® IS BETTER
As a soft foam TRAXSOFT® will fill non-smooth surfaces
thereby minimising moisture ingress underneath the adhesive
HARD FOAM TAPE
Rough surface alloy wheel
SOFT FOAM TAPE
Rough surface alloy wheel
10
11
balance
weight
technology
Fe
Steel adhesive rolls
Adhesive rolls - easy to use, more convenient, less waste
Fe
611M-060-TX50 Slimline 60g strip 3.8mm
high, 20mm wide
High quality zinc sacrificial corrosion protection
to last over 600 hours and high performance
OE specification tape. As approved by Ford
and Renault. 20mm wide. The weight can be
supplied cut to size 5g to 60g.
2 choices – STANDARD or PREMIUM
Please see guidance
for the correct fitting of
adhesive weights –
page 19, 21
Steel adhesive – Original Equipment
605E-500-SP01 Standard adhesive roll
3.8mm high. 19mm wide. High Quality Zinc
coating, oversized liner for easy application.
5Kg roll - 5g x1000 pieces
616C–500-SP01 TRAXSOFT Premium
adhesive roll (plastic coated)
®
Same as the 615C but 5g only. High quality
Lohmann tape. More details on page 11.
Also available in 5g & 10g strips,
part number 615C-060-TX50.
5Kg roll - 5g x1000 pieces
Size range: 60g (4x5g & 4x10g)
Box quantities: 50 pieces per box
650C heavy duty
623M-060-TX50 Slimline 60g strip 3.8mm
high, 20mm wide, Approved by RENAULT
High quality zinc sacrificial corrosion protection
to last over 600 hours. High Quality Lohmann
tape (Made in Germany), with Easy to fit TRAX®
fitting aids (UK Patent pending). Good for low
surface energy paint. High Bonding strength
across high and low temperatures. Can be fitted
on cold rims at -5°C.
Size range: 60g (12x5g)
Box quantities: 50 pieces per box
650C Heavy duty 6.8mm high, 20mm wide
(plastic coated)
605E 5g from a roll
Approved by Land Rover & Ford, this weight
is ideal where larger sizes are required up to
100g. High quality tape, corrosion protection to
OE standards. Fits 16”” to 30” rims. 20mm wide.
660C standard
g
100
Size range: 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60,
65, 70, 75, 80, 85, 90, 95, 100g
Box quantities: Packed 25 pieces per box
660C Standard 5.8mm high, 15mm wide
(plastic coated)
Standard size steel adhesive weight, High quality
tape & corrosion to OE standards. Width 15mm.
80g
Size range: 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60,
65, 70, 75, 80g
Box quantities: Packed 25 pieces per box
670C Slimline 3.8mm high, 20mm wide,
(plastic coated)
Approved by Volvo, a slimline weight with
corrosion protection to OE standards.
High quality tape. 20mm wide.
60g
Fitting adhesive weights
to new alloy rims –
“Essential Guidance”
please see page 19
Size range: 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60g
Box quantities: Packed 25 pieces per box
12
13
balance
weight
technology
Truck weights
Balancing Compound, Valves, Motorsport
810X LEAD clip-on weight for Tubeless
truck rims
TRAX® truck tyre compound
Fits tubeless truck wheels - a popular weight in
use for many years. Sizes 50g to 200g are slimline
in shape to ensure clearance with steering parts
which can be a problem on the inside of some
truck wheels.
• Deals with all vibrations in the tyre/wheel assembly, not only
Size Range: 50, 75, 100, 150, 200, 250, 300, 350, 400g
Box Quantities: 10 weights per box
810
•
•
•
with mass imbalances.
Provides full performance through the life of the tyre.
Easy and cost-efficient to use.
Non-toxic.
Major advantages for the user are:
840C . ZINC clip-on weight for heavy duty
steel wheels – for vehicles up to 3.5 tonnes,
(plastic coated)
This weight is designed to fit heavy duty steel rims
as found on light trucks up to 3.5 tonnes (eg Ford
Transit, MB Sprinter, Renault Trafic, VW
Transporter). Plastic coated to OE standards.
Size Range:
10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 70, 80, 90g
Box Quantities: 25 weights per box
680C Truck & 4x4 STEEL adhesive strip
100g (plastic coated)
A heavy duty adhesive weight for truck. 4x 25g
sections made from steel. Plastic coated with OE
tape for high adhesion of this heavy weight.
6.6mm high x 20mm wide.
Size Range: 4x25g (100g strip)
Box Quantities: 10 weights per box
850X LEAD adhesive weight, extra heavy
duty truck, 200g (plastic coated)
Made from lead, a heavy lead strip for use on
truck alloy rims. Cut to the required size in 50g
segments. OE quality tape for high adhesion of
this heavy weight. 13.00mm high x 19mm wide,
fitted with OE tape
•
•
•
•
Reduced tyre wear, extended tyre life
Improved ride quality
Dampened vibration
Decreased component and maintenance cost
Tubeless valves
A tyre valve is a safety critical component and only valves from know
quality sources are recommended.
Low quality valves can cause rapid tyre deflation with damage to tyres and
potentially creating a dangerous driving situation. It is for this reason that
Trax® only sells valves from known quality suppliers.
Motorsport adhesive weights
615C-060-TX50 TRAXSOFT®
Developed for OE and motorsport use. Made from steel. Superior adhesion at
high temperatures. High tack for good initial bond on fitment.
Please see page 11 for more information.
Size Range: 4x50g (200g strip)
Box Quantities: boxed 10
790X-090-TX50
A traditional weight for motorsport. Bends easily to the rim with a quality
adhesive backing. Made from lead. 2.4mm high x 25.7mm wide.
Size range: 90g strip
Box quantities: Packed 50 pieces per box
14
15
balance
weight
technology
Motorcycle
Assortment boxes
Motorcycle adhesive weights
Please enquire regarding assortment boxes –
these are usually made to order
635C-060-TX50 Black STEEL adhesive
strip – 60g
For motorcycles and cars, 4.8mm high by 15mm
wide. Black coated - ideal for black motorcyle
wheels which are becoming more popular.
Plastic boxes
Clip-on and adhesive weights.
Size range: 60g strip 4x5g & 4x10g
Box quantities: 50 strips per box – 4 boxes per carton
200 strips per carton.
950
950X-050-TX50 Motorcycle LEAD
adhesive – 50g
6.5mm high x 11mm wide. A lead strip with 2.5g
and 5g segments. Fitted with OE tape.
Size range: 50g 7x5g & 6x2.5g
Box quantities: 50 pieces per box
660C Premium – 5 to 30g
5.8mm high, 15mm wide, plastic coated.
Individual single piece steel weights with high
quality plastic coating and adhesive tape.
A premium product to OE standards.
Size Range: 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30g
Box Quantities: boxed 25
660C
16
X
Starter packs Ideal for new weights eg. Steel clip-on weights
TRAX-LOK™
Universal clip-on weights 10/40g
mixed (100 pieces)
A popular seller. Useful as a starter pack
for small users. An assortment of 100
weights 5g to 40g.
17
X
balance
weight
technology
Packaging
Adhesive rolls
Please see the TRAX® website
www.traxjh.com to view the TRAX®
balance weight packing details
Fitting adhesive weights to new or
refurbished alloy wheels
Essential guidance
Adhesive weights
New or refurbished alloy rims may have coatings and lacquers applied to the alloy surface.
Also when the rim paint is being dried, waxes can come to the surface creating a low
surface energy (non-stick) and not allowing the adhesive weight to properly bond to the rim.
For this reason it is essential to clean the rims where the weight is to be applied to ensure
that there are no traces of chemicals on the surface (eg wax or silicon).
Failure to clean the rim can lead to adhesive weights falling off within days of fitment,
causing balancing failure.
Strong TRAX® branded cardboard boxes. 5kg.
Clip-on weights
Adhesive strips are in strong quality TRAX branded boxes.
A carton weighs 8kg to 12kg with 4 boxes inside.
®
Easy to carry, stock and sell.
Wet wipes are recommended for rim cleaning containing an appropriate cleaning
agent (eg isoproponol). On weight application, the wheel rim should be dry and be at
a minimum temperature of 16°C (60°F). After removal of the backing liner, the weight
should be fitted immediately and a minimum 60N pressure applied for approximately
3 seconds as tape pressure is required to enable good bonding. Typically this can
be achieved by hand pressure but may not be reliable. The adhesive should not be
touched before fitment to the rim.
Even with good surface cleaning, problems have been found whereby over time (a
few days or up to 3 weeks) good initial adhesion can deteriorate to an extent where
the weight can fall off. This can be caused by the leaching of low surface energy
substances (eg wax) coming through the freshly painted rims over time. Should such
an event occur, it is necessary to investigate the paint or lacquer used to ensure
that at all times the surface energy where the adhesive weight is fitted is above a
recommended 37 dynes. Adhesives will only work if the surface energy (measure in
dynes) is sufficiently high to ensure a good chemical bond.
Initial bond is typically achieved approximately 15 minutes after fitment; maximum
bond strength may not be achieved until 24/72 hours after fitment. It is recommended
to store adhesive weights in a cool dry location away from direct sunlight and they
should be used within 1 year of purchase.
Depending on the wheel radius, there may be a small visible gap between the
adhesive and the rim, either on the centre or to the outer edges of the weight. This
is due to radii difference as the weight fitment meets a compromise on various rim
sizes. The balance weights have been tested to withstand a minimum shear force
to Original Equipment standards and, whilst desirable, it is not essential to have the
adhesive in contact across all of the surface to achieve specification.
Please enquire for neutral packing options.
TRAX® Can create private labels.
18
© TRAX JH Ltd May 2012
19
balance
weight
technology
Uncoated zinc weights
Application guidelines for TRAX® adhesive balance weights
Zinc balance weights and ‘white rust’ corrosion
Artificial tests do not represent what happens in real conditions on a wheel
Laboratory tests for the corrosion testing of zinc balance weights rely on spraying a salt water solution in a chamber to create a “fog” (mist)
around the weight for several hundred hours (eg ASTM B117, ISO 9227, DIN 50021 SS). Typically 240 hours in a laboratory test is claimed to
represent 5 years life on a car.
Balance weights put into a static salty wet environment for several hundred hours can display a heavy flocculent white deposit (zinc hydroxide)
and pictures of such weights have been shown around the balance weight market as below:
LABORATORY ENVIRONMENT
REAL ENVIRONMENT
Example of a picture of
weights shown in the market.
This hows uncoated zinc
weights placed into an
artificial laboratory salt
spray environment.
Uncoated zinc weight after having been
fitted to a steel wheel running approximately
16,000Km (10,000 miles) over 18 months (UK).
The surface has darkened with superficial
corrosion which does not affect the weight
performance or the steel wheel. This weight
was fitted to a 3.5 tonne light truck with no
wheel trims for maximum exposure to the road.
Laboratory tests are useful for a comparison between the performance of different surfaces and materials but do not represent what happens
on wheel in real life conditions. In addition the aftermarket would not expect a weight to last for 5 years but the life of the tyre which would
typically be around half of this time or less with the seasonal change over from summer to winter tyres. Car companies use weights with
corrosion protection as the specification is for the part to last the life of the car or a minimum 5 years.
1
2
3
4
Prepare
wheel
Cut to
correct weight
Remove
protective liner
Apply
weight
Good surface cleaning
is essential. Prepare
the wheel by removing
any excess dirt or break
dust using a clean cloth
and an appropriate
cleaning agent (eg
ispoproponol 90%).
The wheel temperature
ideally should be a
mininum 16⁰C as lower
rim temperatures will
affect the ability of
the adhesive to give a
satisfactory intitial bond.
Once the wheel has
been cleaned in the
required imbalance
zone, cut the strip or roll
to the required weight.
It is recommended to
use scissors or a sharp
knife to avoid rupturing
or folding over the
adhesive.
Remove the protective
liner from the underside
of the adhesive. Care
must be taken not to
touch or contaminate
the exposed adhesive to
dirt or grease prior
to application.
Fit the adhesive weight to
the identified imbalance
zone and apply even
pressure across the
balance weight to ensure
that maximum adhesion is
gained. Balance weight
adhesive tape is pressure
sensitive and the weight
should be pushed hard
across the length for
2-3 seconds to ensure a
satisfactory initial bond. It
is recommended not to
re-seat the weight to
ensure optimum adhesion.
The primary reason given for the difference between laboratory test and real conditions is that when exposed to the weather the weights
develop a protective skin called a “patina”. This patina comprises of zinc carbonate and offers an inert corrosion protection layer for the zinc
metal. Detail of how the zinc carbonate “patina” will form are as below. This process is more commonly known as “weathering” with the effects
of exposure to rain water, free air circulation, and constant wetting and drying. In addition there is often a heavy deposit of black brake dust
and dirt building up on the weights which will give some additional protection. The continuous wetting and drying as seen in real life on a
wheel gives fast “weathering” and the build up of the protective “patina” zinc carbonate layer.
Patina information
FITTING ADHESIVE WEIGHTS TO NEW OR REFURBISHED ALLOY RIMS – weights may not stick
The formation of the zinc patina begins with exposure of the zinc weight to atmospheric oxygen.
Initially a thin layer of zinc oxide develops on the surface as a result of the oxygen reacting with
the zinc. This oxide layer reacts with water to form a white gelatinous zinc hydroxide (“white rust”).
A new or refurbished alloy rim may look clean but the surface paint or lacquer can have fresh wax or chemicals which do not allow
a good adhesive bond. Please see the next page for details of fitting adhesive weights to new or refurbished alloy rims
During a drying phase the zinc hydroxide reacts with the carbon dioxide in the atmosphere forming
a thin layer of zinc carbonate (patina). The rate of patina formation will depend on the environmental
conditions but the constant wetting and drying as found on a wheel represents good conditions for
this weathering process.
TRAXSOFT® series 615C/616C SP(roll) is recommend for new or refurbished alloy rims –
with special LOHMANN adhesive tape.
•
If the drying phase does not happen the zinc hydroxide (“white rust”) continues to form thereby
showing heavy “white rust” formation as shown by the above left hand photograph.
•
TRAX® offers the market a choice of coated or uncoated clip-on weights. There is a market for both.
Distributors and tyre retailers are being advised it is essential to corrosion protect zinc balance weights
and are not given a choice encouraging them to use more expensive coated weights.
Uncoated weights are now being widely fitted across aftermarkets in Europe.
20
© TRAX JH Ltd May 2012
Storage – It is recommended to store adhesive weights in a cool dry location away from direct sunlight. They should be used
within 1 year of purchase.
Fitting adhesive weights in cold weather – Below 16ºC standard adhesive tapes (eg “blue liner”) will loose their stickiness
leading to potential bonding problems on cold and damp alloy rims. Series 615C/616C SP (roll) is recommended with the
special LOHMANN adhesive tape which can be fitted to cold rims down to -5 ºC
© TRAX JH Ltd May 2012
21
truck tyre compound - print on white.pdf
1
09/05/2012
16:14
balance
weight
technology
TRAX® truck tyre compound
Product code
Description
890X-012-BG01
TRAX® truck tyre compound size chart
TRUCK TYRE
CHART
Note: TRAX® TRUCK TYRE COMPOUND
is onlyCOMPOUND
suitable for tyresSIZE
explicitly
rated for commercial application.
TRAX® TRUCK TYRE COMPOUND is not recommended for application in car tyres.
Size (g)
Bags per outer box
Bags per inner box
12oz Truck Tyre Compound
340
40
4x10
890X-010-BG01
10oz Truck Tyre Compound
280
40
4x10
890X-008-BG01
8oz Truck Tyre Compound
230
40
4x10
890X-006-BG01
6oz Truck Tyre Compound
170
40
2x20
890X-004-BG01
4oz Truck Tyre Compound
115
40
2x20
890X-003-BG01
3oz Truck Tyre Compound
85
40
2x20
APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:
ANWENDUNG:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Apply bead lubricant carefully.
Select the bag according to
TRAX® size chart.
Place the bag inside the tyre
without opening it.
Mount and inflate the tyre
as usual.
We recommend the use of a metal valve cap.
TRAX® disclaims any responsibility for air loss or the damage due to
air loss if a self-sealing cap is not installed after installing the bag or
checking air pressure.
For further information on general handling of the product, please
refer to the Material Safety Data Sheet, available through
your supplier.
•
•
•
Streichen Sie den Wulst sorgfältig mit Paste ein.
Wählen Sie den passenden Beutel nach der TRAX®
Größentabelle .
Legen Sie den Beutel ungeöffnet in den Reifen.
Montieren und pumpen Sie den Reifen auf wie
immer.
Wir empfehlen, eine Metallventilkappe zu
verwenden.
TRAX® haften nicht für Luftverlust oder Schäden aufgrund von
Luftverlust, wenn nach der Installation des Beutels oder beim
Überprüfen des Luftdrucks keine selbstdichtende (Metall-)Ventilkappe
installiert wird.
Für weitere Informationen zum allgemeinen Umgang mit dem Produkt
verweisen wir auf das Sicherheitsdaten-blatt, das Ihr Lieferant zur
Verfügung stellen kann.
INSTRUCTIONS D’APPLICATION:
•
•
•
•
•
Appliquez avec soin le lubrifiant sur le talon.
Sélectionnez un sachet en fonction des
indicationsdu tableau de TRAX®.
Placez le sachet à l’intérieur du pneu, sans l’ouvrir.
Montez et gonflez le pneu comme habituellement.
Nous recommandons l’utilisation d’un bouchon de
valve en métal.
TRAX® dénie toute responsabilité pour toute perte d’airou dommages
provoqués par perte d’air si le capuchon auto-obturant n’est pas
installé après l’installation du sachet ou la vérification de pression
d’air.
Pour plus d’information concernant la gestion du produit en générale
veuillez consulter la fiche de données de sécurité, disponible par
votre fournisseur.
22
INSTRUCCIONES DE APLICACIÓN:
•
•
•
•
•
Aplique lubricante de cuentas con cuidado.
Seleccione una bolsa de acuerdo a tabla de
tamanos TRAX®.
Lugar la bolsa a l’interior del neumatico sin abrirlo.
Monte e inflar el neumatico come de costumbre.
Se recomienda el uso de un tapon e la valvula
demetal.
TRAX® renuncia a cualquier responsabilidad porpérdida de aire o
daño por consecuencia de la pérdida de aire si no se instala una
capa de sellado automático después de instalar la bolsa o verificar la
presión de aire.
Para más información sobre el manejo general del producto,
consultra la Hoja de Datos de Seguridad del Material que está
disponible por su proveedor.
23
HEAD OFFICE
TRAX JH Ltd
66 Mochdre Enterprise Park
Newtown . Powys
SY16 4LE . UK
Tel: +44 (0) 1686 610 169
Fax: +44 (0) 1686 628 959
sales@TRAXjh.com
www.TRAXjh.com
GERMAN OFFICE
Tel: +49 (0) 8092 854 871
Fax: +49 (0) 8092 854 869
sales@TRAXjh.com
USA OFFICE
TRAX JH USA Inc
2324 Circuit Way
Brooksville
FL 34604 . USA
Tel: 888-487-2954
Tel: 888-4TRAXJH
Fax: 352-799-1112
sales@TRAXjh-usa.com
www.TRAXjh-usa.com
Specifications are liable to change without notice.
The pictures and graphics are to be used as a guide
only and are not guaranteed to represent product
shape or appearance.
TRAX® is a registered trade mark.
Patent applications and design registrations apply.
© TRAX JH Ltd May 2012