The award is presented by ESGR state committees and recognizes employers at the local level that have gone above and beyond the legal requirements of the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act to support employees who are members of the Reserve or Guard.

“We are a patriotic company and do everything we can to support our troops, especially when they are also part of the Hennessy family,” said Sanjay Chowbey, president of Hennessy Industries, Inc.

Chowbey accepted the award on behalf of Hennessy Industries, which is headquartered in La Vergne, Tenn., from Tennessee ESGR Chairman Carl Lambert. The award was presented to Hennessy Industries because of its generous support of Command Sergeant Major Darren T. McDow – a Hennessy Industries employee – during his five-year deployment.

“Hennessy Industries has distinguished itself by providing outstanding support to its employee and Tennessee Army National Guardsman, Command Sergeant Major Darren McDow,” said Lambert at the award presentation. “McDow’s service to our country is very much appreciated, as is the support of his employer.” 

McDow has been on active duty since 2007, and will return to work at Hennessy Industries on April 1. During his deployment, employees from Hennessy Industries kept in touch with his family, sent care packages for him and his fellow soldiers, and even sent a large supply of soccer balls for McDow to distribute to schools in Afghanistan. 

“We’re honored to receive this award, and very proud of Darren’s service to our country over the past five years,” Chowbey said. “More than anything, we’re happy to have him back safely and look forward to his contributions to our team.”  

The Above and Beyond Award was created by ESGR to publicly recognize American employers providing extraordinary support and cooperation to their employees who have answered their nation’s call to serve. The award is given in limited numbers by state committees to employers that meet criteria determined by ESGR.

About Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR)

ESGR, a Department of Defense operational committee, was established in 1972 to promote cooperation and understanding between Reserve Component Service members and their civilian employers, and to assist in the resolution of conflicts arising from employees’ military commitments. ESGR is supported by a network of more than 4,900 volunteers in 54 committees located across all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Guam-CNMI, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. 

Chowbey joins Hennessy after spending six years with Gilbarco Veeder-Root, a technology provider for the petroleum industry. Chowbey served as Vice President of the commercial and industrial business unit for the last two years managing sales and marketing and business development. He has extensive domestic and international business experience in general management and functional capacity including operations, service, acquisition and integration.

Prior to joining Gilbarco, Chowbey spent more than 12 years with ArvinMeritor and Arvin Industries. During that time, he held roles of increasing responsibility from director of operations to general manager. It was there that Chowbey was first introduced to auto parts users and retailers, working with Sears, Pep Boys, AutoZone, Advanced Auto Parts, Car Quest and several customers in Asia, Middle East, and Australia.

Chowbey graduated from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University in 2003 with a Master of Business Administration degree. 

Woodlee joins Hennessy’s marketing team, where he will develop and manage the company’s marketing mix in key end user segments.

“Jon comes to us with a very strong and diverse marketing skill set,” said Kevin Keefe, Hennessy Industries’ vice president of marketing. “He will be a valuable asset to our team as we continue to expand Hennessy’s reach into automotive aftermarket user segments.”

Prior to joining Hennessy, Woodlee was marketing director of specialty retail, direct mail and national print for Oreck Corporation, where he was responsible for developing and implementing marketing plans and programs.

Woodlee is a graduate of Vanderbilt University’s Owen Graduate School of Management, where he earned his Master of Business Administration degree with concentrations in marketing and human and organizational performance along with an emphasis in brand management. Woodlee completed his undergraduate work at the University of North Carolina–Asheville.

This prestigious honor from the nation’s largest vehicle manufacturer is a testament to the people, technology and standards of excellence at the Bowling Green facility, said Hennessy Industries’ vice president for marketing, Kevin Keefe.

“Receiving a quality award from anyone is an honor, but to receive it from General Motors is especially gratifying,” said Keefe. “The supplier standards they have put in place are some of the most stringent in the industry, reflecting a relentless focus on quality that we share with them.”

The Supplier Quality Excellence Award is given to specific supplier locations, and only the top-performing suppliers are eligible to win the award, said Tom McMillen, General Motors’ executive director for Supplier Quality & Program Management.

“Suppliers that receive this award have met or exceeded a stringent set of quality performance criteria,” said McMillen. “We view product quality as the foundation for the overall customer experience. Our continued success is directly related to the performance and progress of our suppliers, as well as a shared commitment to quality.”

Tim Presley, vice president/operations for the BADA facility in Bowling Green, said the award was a much-welcomed validation of the high-quality work being done at the plant every day. BADA has supplied General Motors with steel wheel weights for use in passenger vehicle manufacturing in North America and beyond since 2005.

“Working closely with General Motors has helped us further develop world-class quality systems, processes and products,” said Presley. “As a result, we are the premier supplier of lead-free weights not only to vehicle manufacturers, but also to the automotive aftermarket.”

The inaugural 2012 awards covered the period from July 1, 2011, through June 30, 2012. General Motors said it intends to continue to recognize suppliers that have demonstrated the highest levels of quality performance on an annual basis. 

The 6450-2D retains the most valuable 6450-3D features, including proven durability, fast cycle times and high accuracy through a wide range of wheels. DCS will be standard on both the 6450-2D and -3D models.

Features on the new 6450-2D include:

•           Two-parameter auto data entry system for clip weight and three-parameter for Tape-A-Weight^®

•           2-inch (51mm) heavy-duty arbor on COATS’ proven Direct-Drive motor

•           Up to 500-pound and 52-inch wheel capacity

•           Laser-guided direct Tape-A-Weight placement

Dual Calibration Software is available exclusively on COATS 6450 heavy-duty wheel balancers. Unlike other heavy-duty balancers, which simply change the round-off when switching between heavy duty and passenger car work, the COATS 6450 series stores and runs two independent sets of calibrations – one for passenger-car and light-truck and one for heavy-duty applications. In addition to changing round-offs, these machines dynamically adjust critical balancing parameters based on the job at hand.

The addition of DCS to both 6450 models makes the 6450 Series the most accurate heavy-duty balancers in passenger-car and light-truck modes on the market. The 6450 is built for municipal shops servicing police cars, fire trucks and transit vehicles. It is also the right machine for front- line retail service, from delivery vehicles to tractor trailers. DCS gives 6450s the widest and most accurate range; the AC Vector Drive gives the 6450s speed and ease of use, while the COATS Direct Drive motor provides durability and years of trouble-free service.

“Hennessy works to provide the most competitive products on the market, and the 6450-2D and Dual Calibration Software are the latest additions to our already impressive lineup,” said Kevin Keefe, Hennessy Industries’ vice president of marketing. “These items will provide further time savings for busy shops and continue COATS’ proven durability.”

About Hennessy Industries

Hennessy Industries manufactures COATS^®, BaseLine by COATS, AMMCO^® and BADA^® products, and is the largest full-line wheel-service equipment manufacturer in North America. Hennessy is recognized for its state-of-the-art technology in the manufacturing of COATS tire changers and wheel balancers, AMMCO brake lathes and lifts, and BADA wheel-balancing weights.

Hennessy is headquartered in La Vergne, Tenn., with manufacturing facilities in Tennessee and Kentucky. To learn more about Hennessy and COATS, visit www.ammcoats.com.

Smith has been with Hennessy Industries for 17 years and has held a variety of sales, marketing and support positions in Canada and the U.S. His latest role was as an associate product manager in Hennessy’s marketing department, where he was integral in the development and launch of one of the most comprehensive heavy-duty offerings in the industry.

About Hennessy Industries

Hennessy Industries manufactures COATS^®, AMMCO^® and BADA^® products, and is the largest full-line wheel-service equipment manufacturer in North America. Hennessy is recognized for its state-of-the-art technology in the manufacturing of COATS tire changers and wheel balancers, AMMCO brake lathes and lifts, and BADA wheel-balancing weights.

Hennessy is headquartered in La Vergne, Tenn., with manufacturing facilities in Tennessee and Kentucky. To learn more about Hennessy and COATS, visit www.ammcoats.com or follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/ammcoats.

The COATS 70X Leverless model features a unique leverless mount/demount head that eliminates the use of manual tire tools, and an exclusive swing arm locking mechanism that greatly reduces the operator effort required to change even the most challenging applications. This latest addition to the Rim Clamp family includes all the value-added features of the X-Series line, including Advanced Clamp Positioning and COATS’ exclusive Oil Injection System.

“The 70X Leverless was designed to maximize capability and efficiency across a broad range of tire and wheel fitments, while maintaining COATS’ rugged durability, familiarity and ease of use,” said Kevin Keefe, Hennessy Industries’ vice president of marketing. “Aside from its obvious capability enhancements, the leverless system also delivers increased productivity compared to traditional mount/demount systems.”

In addition to the 70X, COATS has introduced the COATS EL-X™ Express Lane Inflation System as an upgrade option for all COATS tire changers. Designed to reduce bay times, the EL-X provides time savings of 20 percent or more on a four-tire ticket compared to the conventional inflation process. In addition to the productivity improvements, the EL-X system is highly accurate, inflating tires to +/- 0.5 PSI of desired pressure in order to reduce TPMS-related comebacks.

To illustrate the benefits of the EL-X Express Lane Inflation System, Hennessy Industries’ newly redesigned website features a head-to-head demonstration video, pitting the COATS^® 70XEH3 Tire Changer against the COATS^® 70XEH3 with the EL-X Express Lane Inflation System.

About Hennessy Industries

Hennessy Industries manufactures COATS^®, BaseLine by COATS^®, AMMCO^® and BADA^® products, and is the largest full-line wheel-service equipment manufacturer in North America.

Hennessy is recognized for its state-of-the-art technology in the manufacturing of COATS tire changers and wheel balancers, AMMCO brake lathes and lifts, and BADA wheel-balancing weights.

Hennessy is headquartered in La Vergne, Tenn., with manufacturing facilities in Tennessee and Kentucky. To learn more about Hennessy and COATS^®, visit www.ammcoats.com or follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/ammcoats.

“Demand remains high for durable, entry-level tire changers,” said Kevin Keefe, Hennessy Industries’ vice president of marketing. “BaseLine tire changers offer low-volume shops a cost-effective way to provide tire service without gambling on used equipment or unproven brands.”

The BL300, BL400 and BL500 mirror their BaseLine predecessor by servicing both steel and alloy wheels. Each tire changer comes with an air-powered side bead loosener, an X-shaped tabletop and bead-sealing jets to assist with inflation. The BL400 and BL500 also include a fully articulating Robo-Arm^® helper device to easily mount stiffer sidewall tires.

Assembled in the company’s La Vergne, Tenn., facility, BaseLine tire changers offer exceptional quality and durability for light-duty service, and they are backed by COATS, the country’s leading tire service equipment brand. Furthermore, all BaseLine customers have access to the COATS nationwide network of Factory Authorized Service providers.

BaseLine by COATS tire changers are available through a number of tool equipment distributors. To find a BaseLine by COATS distributor near you, please visit www.ammcoats.com and follow the links for BaseLine products.  

About Hennessy Industries

Hennessy Industries manufactures COATS^®, BaseLine by COATS, AMMCO^® and BADA^® products, and is the largest full-line wheel-service equipment manufacturer in North America. Hennessy is recognized for its state-of-the-art technology in the manufacturing of COATS tire changers and wheel balancers, AMMCO brake lathes and lifts, and BADA wheel-balancing weights.

Hennessy is headquartered in La Vergne, Tenn., with manufacturing facilities in Tennessee and Kentucky. To learn more about Hennessy and COATS, visit www.ammcoats.com or follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/ammcoats.

“The 7325-FET and 7325-FE were designed to offer a low-profile alternative to BADA’s 7025 Series, while also offering a shorter segment length than the 7026 Series – BADA’s original low-profile steel Tape-A-Weight line – which will result in more one-spin balances,” said Kevin Keefe, Hennessy Industries vice president of marketing.

• The 7325-FET steel Tape-A-Weight product is 25 low-profile strips of quarter-ounce segments featuring exclusive Tape-on-Top to aid with installation.
• The 7325-FE steel Tape-A-Weight product is 25 low-profile strips of quarter-ounce segments with no Tape-on-Top.

Both new Tape-A-Weight styles are made in BADA’s Bowling Green, Ky., facility and feature BADA’s premium-quality adhesive backing that customers know and trust. Additionally, the new styles feature the same innovative coating used on BADA’s steel clip weights, providing up to two and a half times the corrosion resistance of conventional coatings.

BADA offers a comprehensive line of steel wheel weights – including clip-on and Tape-A-Weight styles – and is a leader in the movement away from lead and zinc wheel weights.

About Hennessy Industries

Hennessy Industries manufactures COATS^®, AMMCO^® and BADA^® products, and is the largest full-line wheel-service equipment manufacturer in North America. Hennessy is recognized for its state-of-the-art technology in the manufacturing of COATS tire changers and wheel balancers, AMMCO brake lathes and lifts, and BADA wheel-balancing weights.

Hennessy is headquartered in La Vergne, Tenn., with manufacturing facilities in Tennessee and Kentucky. To learn more about Hennessy and COATS, visit www.ammcoats.com or follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/ammcoats.

Hennessy Industries designs, builds and markets equipment and accessories under three renowned brand names: AMMCO ^®, COATS^® AND BADA^®. The company opened a manufacturing facility in Suzhou, China, earlier this year, where it builds tire service equipment for the Chinese market. In addition to the U.S., Canada and China, the company also sells equipment in Latin America, the Middle East, Australia and other Asian markets.

“Our exhibitions at the two trade shows in China will be important components to our commercial launch in China,” said Tim Fu, China sales manager for Hennessy Industries. “We are very excited about the launch of our COATS operation in China, because we see tremendous growth and expansion continuing in the Chinese automotive aftermarket. There is no greater opportunity to build our brand than there is in China, and we take great pride in doing business here. We have built many wonderful relationships here, and we look forward to developing more as we meet with customers and potential customers at the trade shows.”

Fu said Hennessy will display its entire line of COATS tire changers and wheel balancers at the shows, from the simplest models all the way to premier, high-end machines.

The Automechanika-Shanghai trade fair for automotive parts, equipment and service suppliers will take place Dec. 7-10 at the Shanghai New International Expo Center, while the AMR 2012 exhibition will take place at the New China International Exhibition Center in Beijing from Feb. 27 through March 1, 2012.

About Hennessy Industries

Hennessy Industries manufactures COATS^®, BaseLine by COATS^®, AMMCO^® and BADA^® products, and is the largest full-line wheel-service equipment manufacturer in North America. Hennessy is recognized for its state-of-the-art technology in the manufacturing of COATS tire changers and wheel balancers, AMMCO brake lathes and lifts, and BADA wheel-balancing weights.

Hennessy is headquartered in La Vergne, Tenn., with manufacturing facilities in Tennessee, Kentucky, and China. To learn more about Hennessy and COATS^®, visit www.ammcoats.com or follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/ammcoats.

LA VERGNE, Tenn. – Hennessy Industries has announced the launch of a new line of tire changers and wheel balancers – BaseLine by COATS – designed specifically for light-duty or low-volume tire service needs. The BL200 tire changer and BL225 wheel balancer are the first BaseLine by COATS models to be offered, and are designed specifically for those shops where tire service is an important, but not primary, service offering. 

“There’s a strong demand for high-quality equipment designed for light-duty or low-volume use,” said Kevin Keefe, Hennessy Industries’ vice president of marketing. “BaseLine products offer a cost-effective means to offer tire sales and service without gambling on used equipment, or on unknown or unproven brands.”

Assembled in the company’s La Vergne, Tenn., facility, near Nashville, BaseLine products offer exceptional quality and durability for light-duty service, and are backed by COATS, the country’s leading tire service equipment brand. BaseLine customers will also have access to the COATS nationwide network of Factory Authorized Service providers.

BaseLine by COATS products are available through a number of tool equipment distributors. To find a Baseline by COATS distributor near you, or for more information on this new line of tire service equipment, visit www.baselinebycoats.com.

About Hennessy Industries

Hennessy Industries manufactures COATS^®, BaseLine by COATS, AMMCO^® and BADA^® products, and is the largest full-line wheel-service equipment manufacturer in North America. Hennessy is recognized for its state-of-the-art technology in the manufacturing of COATS^® tire changers and wheel balancers, AMMCO^® brake lathes and lifts, and BADA^® wheel-balancing weights.

Hennessy is headquartered in La Vergne, Tenn., with manufacturing facilities in Tennessee and Kentucky. To learn more about Hennessy and COATS, visit www.ammcoats.com or follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/ammcoats.

The 6450-3D is based on the COATS 6401 model, but also includes several features from the 1250-3D model—the company's most popular balancer. Included in the new features are a one-touch automatic data entry system for all three parameters, a patented Stop and Lock feature that holds the wheel in place until the weight is installed, and an auto-indexing feature that automatically moves the wheel to the next weight position, holding it until the weight is installed.

"The 6450-3D is going to be especially beneficial for high-volume shops with heavy-duty demands," said Kevin Keefe, Hennessy Industries' vice president of marketing. "We've adapted many of the upgrades and value-added features from our 1250-3D model to create a heavy-duty balancer that's as quick and accurate as any front-line, high-volume balancer on the market."

The 6450-3D can handle even larger tires than does the 6401, with a maximum tire diameter of 52 inches, and it comes with an AC vector drive motor, which shaves 20 seconds off a typical 22.5-inch wheel spin. Additionally, the new balancer features a laser weight placement feature that tells the operator precisely where to position Tape-A-Weights®.

COATS is also launching a new air-operated lift to accompany the new balancer. The 550 Scissor Wheel Lift attaches directly to the new heavy-duty balancer, making it easy for operators to lift tires weighing up to 500 pounds onto the balancer. The 550 scissor wheel lift can also be retrofitted to COATS Model 6401 balancers.

About Hennessy Industries

Hennessy Industries manufactures COATS®, AMMCO® and BADA® products, and is the largest full-line wheel-service equipment manufacturer in North America. Hennessy is recognized for its state-of-the-art technology in the manufacturing of COATS tire changers and wheel balancers, AMMCO brake lathes and lifts, and BADA wheel-balancing weights.

Hennessy is headquartered in La Vergne, Tenn., with manufacturing facilities in Tennessee and Kentucky. To learn more about Hennessy and COATS, visit www.ammcoats.com or follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/ammcoats.

Most people will go green without ever seeing how they're doing it – wheel weights typically weigh only 1.25 ounces, are less than 2 inches in length, and are affixed to the inside of or on a vehicle's wheel, out of sight, in order to balance the tire and wheel assembly. Despite the anonymity of the weights, the impact of the ban in New York will be enormous – the typical vehicle has eight to 10 wheel weights on it; with more than 11 million vehicles on the road in the Empire State, that equates to approximately 100 million weights at any one time. New York becomes the seventh state to ban lead weights, joining California, Illinois, Maine, Minnesota, Vermont and Washington.

Kevin Keefe, vice president of marketing for Hennessy Industries, which has led the wheel weight industry's transition away from lead and developed a popular line of BADA® brand steel wheel weights as an alternative to lead, applauded the move.

"It's not often that every single citizen of a state participates in an activity that is good for the environment; but from here on out, any time New Yorkers have their wheels balanced, they'll be doing it in a more environmentally responsible way than ever before, and odds are they won't even realize it," said Keefe.

Lead, one of 31 priority chemicals targeted for reduction by the EPA, has long been the material of choice for wheel weights. In recent years, however, virtually all worldwide automobile manufacturers have voluntarily moved away from lead weights as part of vehicles' original equipment, and major tire retailers such as Wal-Mart, Costco and Bridgestone/Firestone have discontinued the use of lead weights. Some large retailers and many smaller, independent shops continue to install lead weights in the aftermarket, however, and with no nationwide ban on lead weights, states have taken up the issue on their own.

Those who violate the ban in New York can face stiff penalties, depending on circumstances, including fines of up to $1,000 per violation (and an additional $1,000 per day the violation occurs).

"Starting tomorrow, New Yorkers will be exposed to less airborne lead when my law prohibiting the use or sale of lead wheel weights takes effect," said New York Assembly member Linda B. Rosenthal. "We are all well-aware of the dangers of lead, both to human health and the environment. What people may not realize is that many tiny wheel weights, which are clipped on to the wheel's rim to help keep the wheels balanced, are made mostly of lead. When these weights come loose, they are crushed by other vehicles, and are responsible for spreading lead dust into the air and water. Preventing the sale or use of these lead wheel weights, which easily can and are already being made of steel, will have a significant impact on people's health and the environment."

Steel has emerged as the most popular alternative to lead, besting zinc, which, though a less harmful substance than lead, is considered a secondary water contaminant. Steel presents no such environmental concerns and is much more convenient to recycle. At its BADA plant in Bowling Green, Ky., Hennessy Industries has made major investments to retrofit its wheel weight plant to manufacture steel weights. The company has seen significant growth in its steel weight business since 2005, and has launched websites to educate consumers (www.greenwheelbalance.com) and its own clients (www.steelwheelweights.com) on the issue.

About Hennessy Industries

Hennessy Industries manufactures COATS^®, AMMCO^® and BADA^® products, and is the largest full-line wheel-service equipment manufacturer in North America. Hennessy is recognized for its state-of-the-art technology in the manufacturing of COATS tire changers and wheel balancers, AMMCO brake lathes and lifts, and BADA wheel-balancing weights.

Hennessy is headquartered in La Vergne, Tenn., with manufacturing facilities in Tennessee and Kentucky. To learn more about Hennessy and COATS, visit www.ammcoats.com or follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/ammcoats.

LA VERGNE, Tenn. – Hennessy Industries has announced the winners of “The Search for the Oldest COATS Direct Drive Balancer” contest. Jim and Abe Torro, co-owners of Orange Auto Center in Orange, Calif., were named the grand-prize winners after entering their 30-year-old direct drive balancer into the contest. The brothers will receive a trip to Las Vegas and a new COATS® 1250-3DV balancer.

“Our balancer was manufactured in July of 1981. It was one of the earliest direct drive models manufactured, so I knew that we had a chance to win,” Abe Torro said. “Although it’s old enough to be an antique, it’s still very reliable, accurate and quick.”

The contest, which ran from October to December, gave COATS direct drive balancer owners a chance to win one of three prizes, including new COATS 1250-3DV balancers for the runner-up and random drawing winners. COATS received more than 200 contest entries from across the U.S., with many of the balancers dating back to the 1980s.

To view photos and testimonials submitted by contestants, or to learn more about “The Search for the Oldest COATS Direct Drive Balancer,” visit www.coatsdirectdrive.com.

“We hoped the contest would emphasize the longevity and reliability of COATS direct drive balancers,” said Kevin Keefe, Hennessy Industries’ vice president of marketing. “With more than 200 balancers entered into the contest, many of which have been used on a daily basis since the early ’80s, we think it did just that.”

COATS patented direct drive technology features an integrated motor and spindle assembly that is pre-balanced at the factory, eliminating the need for pulleys and belts that can cause troublesome “noise” and interfere with balancing accuracy. It is also an extremely robust and durable design, which is why many original direct drive models are still being used to balance tires in high-volume shops.

Jerry Maxwell and Pat Carter, co-owners of Carter-Maxwell Auto Service in Bethany, Okla., were identified as the runners-up. Their direct drive balancer was manufactured in October of 1981, only three months after the Torro’s. Mike McCarthy, a high school shop teacher at Nogales High School in LaPuente, Calif., was selected as the winner of the random drawing.

“I was glad to see that they gave all COATS^® direct drive owners a chance to win,” said McCarthy. “I assumed our school’s balancer probably wouldn’t be the oldest entered into the contest, but figured it was worth entering for the random drawing. We really needed a new balancer for shop class, and the 1250-3DV is perfect for training students with no experience.”

About Hennessy Industries

Hennessy Industries manufactures COATS^®, AMMCO^® and BADA^® products, and is the largest full-line wheel-service equipment manufacturer in North America. Hennessy is recognized for its state-of-the-art technology in the manufacturing of COATS^® tire changers and wheel balancers, AMMCO^® brake lathes and lifts, and BADA^® wheel-balancing weights.

Hennessy is headquartered in La Vergne, Tenn., with manufacturing facilities in Tennessee and Kentucky. To learn more about Hennessy and COATS^® , visit www.ammcoats.com or follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/ammcoats.

In addition to the grand prize, the owner of the next-oldest COATS direct drive balancer will receive a new 1250-3DV balancer, and everyone who enters the contest is eligible to win a new 1250-3DV through a random drawing. Shops that have a COATS direct drive balancer should go to www.coatsdirectdrive.com to enter their machine's serial number for a chance to win.

"This contest is going to be a lot of fun and should really highlight the longevity and reliability of COATS direct drive balancers," said Kevin Keefe, Hennessy Industries' vice president of marketing. "We expect to find tens if not hundreds of COATS direct drive balancers still in use that were manufactured 10, 20 or even 30 years ago; but we wanted to give all of our direct drive customers a chance to win a new 1250-3DV, regardless of the age of their equipment."

COATS patented direct drive technology features an integrated motor and spindle assembly that is pre-balanced at the factory, eliminating the need for pulleys and belts that can cause troublesome "noise" and interfere with balancing accuracy. It is also an extremely robust and durable design, which is why many original direct drive models are still being used to balance tires in high-volume shops.

"With new direct drive models in the pipeline, we started thinking about ways to emphasize the reliability and longevity aspect of our direct drive systems" said Keefe. "This contest seemed like a terrific opportunity to let our customers tell us their direct drive story."

For more information about "The Search for the Oldest COATS Direct Drive Balancer," or to submit your COATS direct drive balancer into the contest, visit www.coatsdirectdrive.com.

About Hennessy Industries

Hennessy Industries manufactures COATS®, AMMCO® and BADA® products, and is the largest full-line wheel-service equipment manufacturer in North America. Hennessy is recognized for its state-of-the-art technology in the manufacturing of COATS tire changers and wheel balancers, AMMCO brake lathes and lifts, and BADA wheel-balancing weights.

Hennessy is headquartered in La Vergne, Tenn., with manufacturing facilities in Tennessee and Kentucky. To learn more about Hennessy and COATS, visit www.ammcoats.com or follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/ammcoats.

LA VERGNE, Tenn. – Hennessy Industries, Inc., has launched the new COATS Leverless Bead Lifter, an attachment upgrade that retrofits the COATS APX, 9024 and 70X series Rim Clamp tire changers.

The bead lifter’s leverless design eliminates traditional tire tools that can mar the tire’s surface due to application difficulty or operator error, resulting in improved shop efficiency and better tire-changing results. It features a highly intuitive and easy-to-use design that eliminates metal-to-metal contact, taking the tire bar out of the operator’s hands and ensuring a controlled mount-and-demount process.

During demounting, the leverless tool hooks the lip of the bead and effortlessly lifts it just above the rim. The tire then comes off the rim safely and easily with a simple rotation of the tabletop. The leverless tool can also be utilized as an additional helper device when mounting a tire’s top bead. And as always, the COATS Leverless Bead Lifter is built with the legendary COATS toughness and reliability for use in high-volume shops.

About Hennessy Industries

Hennessy Industries manufactures COATS^®, AMMCO^® and BADA^® products, and is the largest full-line wheel-service equipment manufacturer in North America. Hennessy is recognized for its state-of-the-art technology in the manufacturing of COATS tire changers and wheel balancers, AMMCO brake lathes and lifts, and BADA wheel-balancing weights.

Hennessy is headquartered in La Vergne, Tenn., with manufacturing facilities in Tennessee and Kentucky. To learn more about Hennessy and COATS, visit www.ammcoats.com or follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/ammcoats.

LA VERGNE, Tenn. (Aug. 3, 2010) — Hennessy Industries Inc. is offering independent tire dealers double rebates on several of its COATS brand tire changers and balancers for a limited time.

Dealers are eligible to receive double factory rebates of up to $800 on every COATS 70X Series tires changer and COATS 1250-3D and 1250-3DV Series balancers they purchase, according to the La Vergne-based equipment marketer.

“In a time when there have never been more vehicles on the road per service bay, having the most capable and efficient equipment is even more critical to meeting customer expectations,” said Kevin Keefe, vice president of marketing for Hennessy. “With that in mind, we wanted to offer independent tire dealers a very affordable way to upgrade their capabilities with the most popular mounting and balancing equipment from COATS.”

About Hennessy Industries

Hennessy Industries manufactures COATS^®, AMMCO^® and BADA^® products, and is the largest full-line wheel-service equipment manufacturer in North America. Hennessy is recognized for its state-of-the-art technology in the manufacturing of COATS tire changers and wheel balancers, AMMCO brake lathes and lifts, and BADA wheel-balancing weights.

Hennessy is headquartered in La Vergne, Tenn., with manufacturing facilities in Tennessee and Kentucky. To learn more about Hennessy and COATS, visit www.ammcoats.com or follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/ammcoats.

Hennessy Industries said it has revamped its BADA wheel weights website (www.steelwheelweights.com) to keep customers better informed about legislative activity regarding the phase-out of lead wheel weights.

According to the company, the new features include information about the environmental benefits of using steel wheel weights, a legislative tracker that highlights areas in the United States where anti-lead legislation has been passed, and a section about the pros and cons of the various alternatives to lead. The site also features links to BADA's recently launched YouTube and Twitter accounts. Customers can also see BADA’s complete line of steel wheel weights and related products on the site.

“The changes to our website make it easier for our customers to find the information they need and to make an informed decision when making the switch from lead wheel weights,” said Kevin Keefe, Hennessy’s vice president of marketing.

About Hennessy Industries

Hennessy Industries manufactures COATS^®, AMMCO^® and BADA^® products, and is the largest full-line wheel-service equipment manufacturer in North America. Hennessy is recognized for its state-of-the-art technology in the manufacturing of COATS tire changers and wheel balancers, AMMCO brake lathes and lifts, and BADA wheel-balancing weights.

Hennessy is headquartered in La Vergne, Tenn., with manufacturing facilities in Tennessee and Kentucky. To learn more about Hennessy and COATS, visit www.ammcoats.com or follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/ammcoats.

LA VERGNE, TENN. – Hennessy Industries’ COATS brand will launch a new line of rim clamp tire changers designed to offer customers more price options and increased customization, officials announced today.

The X-Model tire changer line represents a reorganization of existing COATS lines, combining features and upgrades from the 5000 and 7000 models that will allow customers to tailor tire changers to meet their shops’ needs.

“The X-Model is not a new product launch, but a reorganization of COATS tire changer products to better fit our customers’ needs,” said Kevin Keefe, Hennessy Industries’ vice president of marketing. “We’ve adapted some of the features from our 7000 series models to fit the 5000 series models, and we’ve decoupled storage and accessories across the line to give our customers more options and more price points.”

The new line will offer three 50X and three 70X models, and customers will be able to differentiate the models by how they’re equipped with accessories and add-ons for better customization. The new line also adds several price points that will allow customers to pay only for the features their shops need in a tire changer.

“Customers can expect the same durability and value they’ve always had with COATS tire changers, but now they will be able to pick and choose the features that they feel are important for their shop,” said Keefe. “The new line also gives our distributors six price points to offer customers.”

About Hennessy Industries

Hennessy Industries manufactures COATS^®, AMMCO^® and BADA^® products, and is the largest full-line wheel-service equipment manufacturer in North America.  Hennessy is recognized for its state-of-the-art technology in the manufacturing of COATS tire changers and wheel balancers, AMMCO brake lathes and lifts, and BADA wheel-balancing weights.

Hennessy Industries, Inc., is a wholly owned subsidiary of DH Holding, a subsidiary of Danaher Corporation (NYSE: DHR), a Fortune 500 company. Hennessy is headquartered in La Vergne, Tenn., with manufacturing facilities in Tennessee and Kentucky.

To learn more about Hennessy and COATS, visit www.ammcoats.com or follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/ammcoats.

LA VERGNE, Tenn. – Hennessy Industries recently kicked off the summer with a picnic and charity event at the company’s La Vergne headquarters that raised $10,000 for the Children of Fallen Soldiers Relief Fund.

The relief fund was created to help support children with a parent who was lost or disabled while fighting in the Afghanistan or Iraq wars. Hennessy employees and their family members, along with customer partners, made donations throughout the event and also participated in a Red Cross blood drive.

“It is great to celebrate our employee’s hard work with a family event,” said Hennessy Industries president Tim Gilmore. “But we made things even more special through the tie-in with the charity. This is the first fundraiser we’ve done on behalf of Children of Fallen Soldiers, but we all believe so strongly in its mission and there are definitely more events to come. Giving back to the community always energizes company morale.”

About Hennessy Industries

Hennessy Industries manufactures COATS^®, AMMCO^® and BADA^® products, and is the largest full-line wheel-service equipment manufacturer in North America.  Hennessy is recognized for its state-of-the-art technology in the manufacturing of COATS tire changers and wheel balancers, AMMCO brake lathes and lifts, and BADA wheel-balancing weights.

Hennessy Industries, Inc., is a wholly owned subsidiary of DH Holding, a subsidiary of Danaher Corporation (NYSE: DHR), a Fortune 500 company. Hennessy is headquartered in La Vergne, Tenn., with manufacturing facilities in Tennessee and Kentucky.

To learn more about Hennessy and COATS, visit www.ammcoats.com or follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/ammcoats.

Photo 1

Kevin Keefe, Hennessy’s vice president of marketing, joins Hennessy president Tim Gilmore outside the Red Cross blood drive truck at the company’s employee picnic.

Photo 2

Nashville country band Tumbleweed provided great music for the Hennessy crowd.

Photo 3

After raising money all day, Hennessy employees and family members line up to celebrate the announcement of a $6,500 donation for the Children of Fallen Soldiers Relief Fund.

LA VERGNE, Tenn. – The state of Washington’s Department of Ecology announced recently its endorsement of steel wheel weights over other lead alternatives, a move that drew praise from the industry’s largest producer of wheel weights.

“Steel is, without a doubt, the best choice for the environment,” said Hennessy’s vice president of marketing, Kevin Keefe. “Hennessy commends the state of Washington for going a step beyond banning lead by promoting steel as the best alternative. We hope to see other states follow the example set by Washington’s Department of Ecology.”

Wheel weights, the small weights attached to the inner and outer surfaces of vehicle wheels in order to balance the tire, historically have been made of lead. But health and environmental concerns about lead have motivated Washington and four other states – California, Maine, Minnesota and Vermont – to pass legislation banning lead wheel weights. Maryland and Wisconsin have also proposed similar legislation.

“Washington state is banning the use of lead wheel weights for most vehicles in 2011 because of the toxic hazard they pose for people, the environment and aquatic life,” said Carol Kraege with the Washington Department of Ecology. “Lead wheel weights must be replaced with ‘environmentally preferred’ weights, and Ecology recommends coated steel wheel weights as replacements.”

With the Department of Ecology’s endorsement of steel as the best alternative, Washington joins Maine as the second state to put its official support behind steel. The state of Maine has declared it will not promote the use of zinc wheel weights, another alternative to lead, due to concerns about toxicity to wildlife.

Zinc is considered to be a secondary water contaminant. As a result, many businesses and some states are transitioning from lead to steel exclusively.

Last year, the Environmental Protection Agency accepted a petition from a dozen environmental and public health organizations to immediately begin rulemaking to ban lead wheel weights nationwide.

About Hennessy Industries
Hennessy Industries manufactures COATS^®,AMMCO^® and BADA^® products, and is the largest full-line wheel-service equipment manufacturer in North America. Hennessy is recognized for its state-of-the-art technology in the manufacturing of COATS tire changers and wheel balancers, AMMCO brake lathes and lifts, and BADA wheel-balancing weights.

Hennessy Industries, Inc., is a wholly owned subsidiary of DH Holding, a subsidiary of Danaher Corporation (NYSE: DHR), a Fortune 500 company. Hennessy is headquartered in La Vergne, Tenn., with manufacturing facilities in Tennessee and Kentucky.

To learn more about Hennessy, visit www.ammcoats.com. Shop owners and automotive industry insiders can go to www.steelwheelweights.com for complete information on steel wheel weights and related legislation.

LA VERGNE, Tenn. – Hennessy Industries has announced that Tim Gilmore has been named president of the La Vergne, Tenn.-based company. Gilmore previously served as senior vice president of sales and service for Matco Tools, which along with Hennessy is a subsidiary of Danaher Corporation.

Gilmore comes to Hennessy after 23 years with Matco, where he held several positions of increasing responsibility during his tenure, including district manager, project manager, regional manager and director of DBS and customer service. He also served as general manager of the BADA® division of Hennessy, which will continue to fall under his scope of responsibility as president.

Gilmore is known for his “hands-on” management style and wealth of knowledge and experience with Hennessy’s equipment business. He replaces former Hennessy Industries president Michael Schulte, who has assumed a new role with Danaher.

A New Jersey native, Gilmore holds a Master of Science degree from Radford University and a Bachelor of Arts degree from Montclair State University.

About Hennessy Industries

Hennessy Industries manufactures COATS^®, AMMCO^® and BADA^® products, and is the largest full-line wheel-service equipment manufacturer in North America.  Hennessy is recognized for its state-of-the-art technology in the manufacturing of COATS tire changers and wheel balancers, AMMCO brake lathes and lifts, and BADA wheel-balancing weights.

Hennessy Industries, Inc., is a wholly owned subsidiary of DH Holding, a subsidiary of Danaher Corporation (NYSE: DHR), a Fortune 500 company. Hennessy is headquartered in La Vergne, Tenn., with manufacturing facilities in Tennessee and Kentucky.

To learn more about Hennessy and COATS, visit www.ammcoats.com or follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/ammcoats.

GREEN, Ky. March 16, 2010; BADA has launched a line of steel wheel weights for medium- and heavy-duty trucks and several new styles of steel Tape-A-Weights^® as part of an expansion of what already was the industry's most complete line of steel wheel weights, Hennessy Industries' vice president of marketing Kevin Keefe announced today.

The medium- and heavy-duty truck steel wheel weights are for trucks weighing more than three-quarters of a ton. Like all other BADA steel wheel weights, the new line of truck weights features a special metallic coating that enhances corrosion resistance and a patented clip-in-mass design which puts the clip in the mass of the weight for superior fit.

"We've taken our patented clip-in-mass design from our passenger car and light truck steel wheel weight line and developed an industry-first line for medium- and heavy-duty trucks," Keefe said. "I'm proud that BADA continues to expand the industry's most comprehensive steel wheel weight line by adding even more quality products for our customers."

BADA has also launched several new styles of steel Tape-A-Weights, all of which are designed to fit the needs of soft-line wheels that do not accept traditional clip-on weights. Every Tape-A-Weight style features a patented Tape-On-Top design which keeps the weight strip rigid and enables easy, accurate, one-handed application. BADA's new Tape-A-Weights for light truck, SUV, and one-ton-plus applications are available in low-profile strips of 576 half-ounce segments or 288 one-ounce segments.

The company has also launched new colored break-a-way weights available with black or white coating, in addition to the regular steel-colored coating. The colored weights come in low-profile strips of 200-count segments. Each segment is a quarter-ounce.

About Hennessy Industries

Hennessy Industries manufactures COATS®, AMMCO® and BADA® products, and is the largest full-line wheel-service equipment manufacturer in North America. Hennessy is recognized for its state-of-the-art technology in the manufacturing of COATS tire changers and wheel balancers, AMMCO brake lathes and lifts, and BADA wheel-balancing weights.

Hennessy Industries, Inc., is a wholly owned subsidiary of DH Holding, a subsidiary of Danaher Corporation , a Fortune 500 company. Hennessy is headquartered in La Vergne, Tenn., with manufacturing facilities in Tennessee and Kentucky.

To learn more about Hennessy and COATS, visit www.ammcoats.com or follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/ammcoats.

LA VERGNE, Tenn. – Hennessy Industries has announced the promotion of Mike Wilcox to vice president sales worldwide, effective Nov. 1. He formerly was vice president sales North America.

“Mike has had great success in growing Hennessy’s key account base and distribution network, and I am sure he will continue to successfully grow Hennessy’s share position in the industry,” said Mike Schulte, Hennessy president. “His industry experience makes him uniquely qualified for this position.”

In his new position, Wilcox will work closely with Hennessy President Mike Schulte and will be responsible for direction and management of Hennessy’s sales initiatives worldwide, and customer service, dispatch and field service operations. Wilcox brings more than 30 years of experience in the automotive industry to the position, including 15 years at Hennessy.

Prior to joining Hennessy, he served in general manager and sales roles at Perfect Hofmann USA and Sun Electric Corporation. Wilcox, originally from Salina, Kan., grew up in Indianapolis, Ind., and now resides in Murfreesboro, Tenn., with his wife, Julie.   

About Hennessy Industries

Hennessy Industries manufactures COATS^®, AMMCO^® and BADA^® products, and is the largest full-line wheel-service equipment manufacturer in North America.  Hennessy is recognized for its state-of-the-art technology in the manufacturing of COATS tire changers and wheel balancers, AMMCO brake lathes and lifts, and BADA wheel-balancing weights.

Hennessy Industries, Inc., is a wholly owned subsidiary of DH Holding, a subsidiary of Danaher Corporation (NYSE: DHR), a Fortune 500 company. Hennessy is headquartered in La Vergne, Tenn., with manufacturing facilities in Tennessee and Kentucky.

To learn more about Hennessy and COATS, visit www.ammcoats.com or follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/ammcoats.

BOWLING GREEN, Ky. – Ford Motor Company presented its Q1 Award to the BADA division of Hennessy Industries, Inc., in ceremonies at the company’s Bowling Green, Ky., plant on Sept. 3.

BADA supplies wheel weights for Ford cars and light trucks, in addition to other automotive markets. The Q1 Award, Ford’s recognition of organizations that have achieved a continued level of product quality and excellence, distinguishes BADA as a preferred supplier.

Ford Supplier Quality representatives presented the Q1 Award plaque and Q1 flag to Mike Schulte, Hennessy Industries president, and Tim Presley, Hennessy Industries vice president of operations. “I can’t thank the Hennessy team enough for keeping the BADA plant at its current level and working together to achieve such a goal,” Schulte said, after accepting the award in front of a large audience of BADA employees and other Ford and Hennessy executives.

Presley emphasized the award’s significance. “We are absolutely the leader when it comes to quality. We have grown so much in this industry, and receiving this award shows that we are truly committed to Ford and to the opportunity to continue growing worldwide.”

During his presentation speech, Keith Aubuchon of Ford Supplier Quality said, “It’s extremely important to have Q1 status, especially in this economy, with suppliers dropping out like they are. When I drive by a facility and see the Q1 flag, I know it’s a company that’s doing the right thing and making a high-quality product. The Q1 flag is a symbol of trust.”

An on-site audit of the BADA facility by Ford in early summer verified that the company had successfully implemented the quality management system necessary for Q1 status.

BADA has also been certified by Smithers Quality Assessments, Inc., in three different categories: TS 16949:2002 with product design for OEM quality standards, ISO 9001:2008 with design for AM quality standards, and ISO 14001 for environmental management system standards.

About Hennessy Industries

Hennessy Industries manufactures COATS^®, AMMCO^® and BADA^® products, and is the largest full-line wheel-service equipment manufacturer in North America.  Hennessy is recognized for its state-of-the-art technology in the manufacturing of COATS tire changers and wheel balancers, AMMCO brake lathes and lifts, and BADA wheel-balancing weights.

Hennessy Industries, Inc., is a wholly owned subsidiary of DH Holding, a subsidiary of Danaher Corporation (NYSE: DHR), a Fortune 500 company. Hennessy is headquartered in La Vergne, Tenn., with manufacturing facilities in Tennessee and Kentucky.

To learn more about Hennessy, visit www.ammcoats.com. To learn more about BADA, shop owners and automotive industry insiders can go to www.steelwheelweights.com for complete information on steel wheel weights and related legislation. Consumers can go to www.greenwheelbalance.com to learn about the benefits of “green” wheel balancing and how to find a participating service provider.

The CHD-9551 tire changer is the top-of-the-line changer offered by COATS® and is designed for highvolume shops. Offering users the most automated features and widest range of fittings in the CHD line, this model makes it easy to tackle the toughest super-single, skidder, agricultural and off-road tires available. An optional wireless remote gives the freedom to move around the  machine without bulky cables.

Designed for busy shops servicing a large range of fitments, the COATS® CHD-9043 tire changer is ideal when dealing with a variety of applications and large wheel fitments. A remote controlled, hydraulically operated tool arm conserves effort and increases tire-changing turnaround time, while its solid, singlepiece frame allows for increased capacity and durability.

The COATS® CHD-9041 tire changer is a great solution for moderate to high-volume shops and fleets with varying fitments. Its extended capacity four-jaw chuck allows for use on a large range of applications and works seamlessly with its open frame design for easy wheel movement./p>

Designed for shops with increasing volume and the need for easy-to-use equipment, the COATS® CHD- 6330   tire changer is the most compact of the jaw-style clamping machines available today. Its floating jaws match wheel contours for excellent grip and safety, and the four-jaw chuck allows for fast and easy clamping of virtually all rim styles including de-mountable, reverse and standard disc, and off-road style wheels.

The COATS® CHD-4730 tire changer is a great machine for smaller fleets and tire shops. Its compact design works well in tight areas, while its swing-arm mounted controls are right where you need them. The manual hub nut and cone style mounting is simple and fast to use, making it a great option as a second machine in busy shops. Each new CHD model offers a full array of different standard and optional accessories, depending on the model. In addition to the five new models, COATS® will continue to offer the HIT series of heavy duty tire changers, giving users a total of eight different COATS® heavy duty tire changers to choose from.

About Hennessy Industries
Hennessy Industries manufactures COATS®, AMMCO® and BADA®, and is the largest full-line wheelservice equipment manufacturer in North America. Hennessy is recognized for its advanced technology in the manufacture of COATS® tire changers and wheel balancers, AMMCO® brake lathes and lifts, and BADA® wheel balancing weights.

Hennessy Industries, Inc., is a subsidiary of Danaher Corporation (NYSE: DHR), a Fortune 500 company. Hennessy is headquartered in La Vergne, Tenn., with manufacturing facilities in Tennessee and Kentucky.

To learn more, see your COATS® distributor or visit www.ammCOATS.com

“The majority of wheel weights are made are still made of lead, but that is quickly changing,” said Don Vanderheyden, group marketing manager for Hennessy Industries Inc. “The new microsite will educate independent dealers and retailers, merchandisers, and aftermarket companies about the full line of non-lead products BADA® now offers and the technical and environmental benefits associated with our steel wheel weights.” 

BADA® took a proactive stride in 2005 and developed several popular wheel weight styles in steel before regulations demanded the change. Because the steel wheel weights have been so well-received, BADA® has now developed a complete product line of BADA® steel wheel weights, which are high quality, lead alternatives that shop owners can now choose when balancing tires and wheels assemblies. 

In 2005, the European Union banned the use of lead wheel weights because they are a direct source of lead pollutant in our water supply. Since then, major automakers have taken notice and have begun to switch to steel wheel weights. “Several leading automakers and tire retailers have made the decision to transition from lead wheel weights”. 

State and Local governments in the United States have also taken notice, and there is now pending legislation in several states to ban lead wheel weights. Initially many are requiring the use of non-lead wheel weights on fleet vehicles. Details on all pending legislative activity on lead wheel weights are accessible from BADA’s® new website. 

Fortunately, BADA® has the right weight, right now, for customers looking for a practical alternative to lead. BADA® steel wheel weights not only offer a smart environmental alternative, but several design benefits as well. For example, a special metallic coating process to enhance appearance and prevent unsightly staining and corrosion on rim surfaces. Unlike other manufacturers that stake the weight to the back of the clip, the BADA® design incorporates the clip in the mass of the weight. This allows for a better fit that imitates the look of a traditional wheel weight. 

About Hennessy Industries
Hennessy Industries manufactures COATS®, AMMCO® and BADA®.  It is the largest full-line wheel-service equipment manufacturer in North America and is recognized for its advanced technology in the manufacture of COATS® tire changers and wheel balancers, AMMCO® brake lathes and lifts, and BADA® wheel balancing weights.

Hennessy Industries, Inc., is a subsidiary of Danaher Corporation (NYSE: DHR), a Fortune 500 company. Hennessy is headquartered in La Vergne, Tenn., with manufacturing facilities in Tennessee and Kentucky.

To learn more, see your AMMCO® distributor or visit www.ammcoats.com.

One winner will be named the 2007 Top Shop and receive a COATS® tire changer, a cash prize, and a trip for two to Las Vegas for the 2007 SEMA Show. Three finalists will receive COATS® tire/wheel balancers and cash prizes.

The contest is now open, and entries will be accepted until July 15, according to the magazine. Entry forms and information are available online at Tire Review's Web site (www.tirereview.com) or in each issue of the publication from February through July.

"The Top Shop Awards are not a popularity contest or focused of which dealer is biggest," said Jim Smith, editor of Tire Review. "We are trying to find independent tire dealers - small or large - who epitomize those attributes and values we stress with every issue of Tire Review: a true professional who is exemplary in customer service and retention, in training and education, in merchandising and promotion, in professional standards and conduct, in appearance, in solid business management, in community involvement and in growth and achievement."

"When Tire Review presented us with the Top Shop Award concept, we knew right away it was something we wanted to support," said Kevin Keefe, director of marketing for Hennessy Industries. "Our primary focus at Ammco/COATS® is to provide products and solutions that help independent tire dealers deliver an outstanding service experience to their customers, and grow their businesses in the process. The Top Shop Award will recognize just a few of the many outstanding dealers we encounter each and every day in our travels, and we're proud to be a part of its debut.

"What struck us about the Top Shop Award is that it's about a lot more than selling tires," Keefe said. "It emphasizes several key drivers of success for just about any business: customer service/retention, community involvement, training and education and overcoming everyday obstacles. It's an award Ammco/COATS® believes will bring much deserved recognition to a few of the many successful businesspeople in our industry."

Dealers can nominate their business, or others can nominate tire dealer businesses. The entry process is simple: Those making the nomination need to provide basic information about the dealership being nominated and write a short (300-word maximum) essay explaining why that dealership should be considered. (See attached entry form)

From there, all entrants will reviewed and a group of semi-finalists selected. Those semi-finalists will be asked to provide additional information for judging. A panel of judges, including industry professionals and a member of the Tire Review staff, will select the four finalists and, ultimately, the 2007 Top Shop Award winner.

The Top Shop Award winner will receive a COATS® APX90 tire changer, a $1,500 cash prize, airfare and hotel for two (3 nights/2 days) to the 2007 SEMA Show, a feature story on their business in the October issue of Tire Review, and a specially designed trophy to display in their store.

The three finalists will each receive a COATS® 1250 tire/wheel balancer, a $500 cash prize, a feature story on their dealership in that same October issue, and a specially designed plaque.

To download an entry form click here.

These clamp kits increase the clamping capacity of the most popular family of tire changers in the United States. Available for the COATS®  50X, 70X, and 9024E Rim Clamp® Tire Changers, they offer today's technician the ease and flexibility needed to handle nearly any job that comes through the door.

Benefits of the 28-inch Extension Clamp Kit for the COATS® 50X/70X Series include:

▪ Ability to externally clamp wheels from 16 inches up to and including 28 inches without damage.
▪ Fits COATS® 50X, 60X, and 70X-Series Rim Clamp® Tire Changers with quick and easy installation and removal

Benefits of the 4-inch Extension Clamp Kits for the COATS® 90 Series (part numbers 8185590 and 8185531) include:

▪ Ability to externally clamp wheels up to and including 28 inches without damage.
▪ Fits COATS® 9024E Rim Clamp® Tire Changers with quick and easy installation and removal.
▪ Clamp Kit part number 8185531 also features a 2-inch clamping reduction for servicing smaller wheels.

"These new COATS® extension clamps will provide our large installed base of 50X, 70X Series and 9024E users with maximum application coverage," said Andrew Vecci, Group Marketing Manager for Hennessy Industries.  "Our customers won't need to purchase another tire changer to accommodate larger OEM and custom aftermarket wheel sizes; they can simply change the clamps based on their customer needs."

About Hennessy Industries

Hennessy Industries manufactures COATS®, AMMCO® and BADA®, and is the largest full-line wheel-service equipment manufacturer in North America. Hennessy is recognized for its advanced technology in the manufacture of COATS® tire changers and wheel balancers, AMMCO® brake lathes and lifts and BADA® wheel balancing weights.

Hennessy Industries, Inc., is a subsidiary of Danaher Corporation (NYSE: DHR), a Fortune 500 company. Hennessy is headquartered in La Vergne, Tenn., with manufacturing facilities in Tennessee and Kentucky.

To learn more, see your COATS® distributor or visit www.ammcoats.com.

LA VERGNE, TN — COATS® XR1750 Video Wheel Balancer has proven to be a technician favorite. And after soliciting “Voice of the Customer” feedback from the field, COATS® now offers three configurations of the model, affording users a wider range of choices when shopping for a fully-featured front-line wheel balancer.