Question Centramatic balancing rings...

[Joe Hogan]

Any thoughts on balancing rings? These come recommended and easy to install, a relative term. Whole Assembly Balance for Heavy-Duty from Centramatic

 

[NWIP]

I know @redbaron has them, hopefully he can give some insight

 

[Neal]

I think Dr @Chuggs also uses them.

 

[Kevin D Pem]

I used BBs on the wing for the job worked great. same idea I would do it in a heart beat If I had deep pockets.

 

[redbaron]

I have run them since 2013. I start with getting tires spin balanced, and then install the centramatics. Never had a tire unevenly wear or get out of balance. I am a believer

 

[redbaron]

Another fact about the centramatics - they are wonderful dust shields and heat sinks. The heat sink issue is not very obvious. Mainly because I don't over use my brakes and maintain proper speeds going downhill. The dust shield effect is very obvious. I have traveled with friends, starting with freshly washed coaches. At the end of the day looking at the brake dust difference between those without centramatics vs those with, it is a very big difference. I can easily wash my wheels at the end of the day just by foaming with soap, letting it soak, and pressure wash it away. Looks 90% good as new. Others without have tried the same thing, but are forced to use a rag to wipe them down.

For those that are picky like I am about keeping the coach clean, this will be the thing that you notice more frequently than any of the intended benefits. Tires are not going to stay any longer than 5 years on the front of my coach, and you can get 5 years with or without centramatics. Most people deal with the slight wobble or pull that the tires eventually get, and comfort drive does a lot to mask that effect. (at least I believe they do...not trying to start *THAT* debate).

I also placed the centramatics on all 3 axles. I plan on selling my coach in 5 years, so I will not know how long the rear tires will last. Same thing with my 2013 coach.

 

[sheridany]

@redbaron did you go to a local tire shop or go to Loves/PFJ tire shop to get them installed? When I reached out to centramatrics, they suggested a Love’s near me for installation.

 

[redbaron]

On 2013 I had them installed by centramatics in Alvarado, TX as they are 5 minutes from my house.
In 2019 I had newmar install them during my CPU. They sent me to a tire shop for the install.
Any tire shop that is setup to deal with big trucks can do the install, as it is a simple as removing wheel and sliding it on.

I added the step of spin balancing all 8 wheel assemblies, which most people considered a waste of money. It has worked well for me, and I will do it the same way next time.

 

[Chuggs]

You will notice a difference as soon as you get on a smooth section of asphalt. Generally...America's roads are too bumpy to notice. I recommend them...but you can't blame them for not being able to compensate for crappy roads. They simply balance out vibrations caused by the wheel itself.

 

[Joe Hogan]

Ordered Monday received Wednesday from Florida Truck. Quick and free shipping