Michelin to purchase Hennessy Pax changers to service run-flats

LAS VEGAS (Nov. 8)—Michelin North America Inc. has agreed to exclusively purchase a Hennessy Industries Inc. Pax tire mounting machine as it sets up service for the run-flat tires. Hennessy will handle initial training of Michelin personnel and warranty servicing of the equipment. The two companies have worked closely since last fall in developing the new changer which also can be used to mount other high-performance and conventional tires, including zero-pressure and sport-utility vehicle models. Hennessy announced the purchase agreement Nov. 1 in Las Vegas during Automotive Aftermarket Industry Week 2000. Unlike traditional tire changing equipment which positions a tire horizontally, Hennessy´s Coats HP8020 Pax System Changer aligns the tire vertically to ease the mounting and dismounting of the beads from the outside rim and allow full visibility of the operation.