Attention: TDR Forum Junkies 
MarkBerkowitz
TDR MEMBER
When it comes to tires, I own two trucks, two Jeeps, a motorcycle, four trailers, a riding lawnmower and numerous other assorted wheeled contraptions. I'm constantly buying tires, repairing tires and swapping tires. The nearest tire shop is an hour away. Their prices are high and their work is questionable. Other more reliable shops are farther away; but they want to set up an appointment several days in the future. Therefore, I've decided to buy my own tire changer and balancer. I realize this sounds extreme to some; but when I kill the better part of a day getting a tire mounted I have to consider the value of my own time. I'm not interested in being able to show a return on investment. There is also the knowledge that I will do the job correctly and not cut corners. So my mind is made up. The question is what brand? Coats, Hunter, John Bean seem to be what most high-volume tire shops use. As far as I can tell these machines are made in the United States. Ranger is significantly cheaper, but made in China. Supposedly Ranger engineering is still done in the US. I've also been told that Ranger quality is better than it used to be. Whatever I buy will not see continuous all-day use. Once a week would be maximum. So what do you guys recommend?
