COATS RC-45A Air Rim Clamp Tire Changer
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Coats RC45A Rim Clamp Tire Changer - Air Drive Model for Car and Light Truck
The Coats RC45A is a professional air-drive rim clamp tire changer built for shops handling passenger car and light truck tires up to 24" rim diameter and 50" max tire diameter. Powered by a 1.5 HP air motor operating at 110 - 175 psi, the RC45A delivers powerful, consistent rotation without requiring a dedicated electrical circuit for the drive system. Built-in bead sealing jets, a manual swing arm with Coats Duckhead Mount/Demount Tool, and foot-pedal controls combine for a fast, fluid workflow. At just 35"W x 44"D x 70"H, the compact chassis fits easily into tight bays without sacrificing capability. The RC45A is backed by Coats' 1-year parts warranty with 6-month labor coverage and a 5-year pro-rated transmission warranty.
Coats RC45A Features
Best-in-Class Rim Clamping Capacity
The RC45A clamps externally on rims from 6" to 24", covering virtually every passenger car and light truck wheel in a typical shop. The 4-clamp, air cylinder-operated system provides consistent clamping force across that full range, keeping the wheel securely positioned throughout the mount and demount process. Rim width support extends to 10.5", accommodating wide-profile wheels common on trucks and SUVs.
Air Drive System - 1.5 HP Motor
The RC45A uses a 1.5 HP air motor operating at 110 - 175 psi and 15 scfm to power wheel rotation, eliminating the need for a dedicated electrical outlet at the machine. This makes the RC45A an ideal choice for shops where running a new electrical circuit is impractical, or where the machine needs to be positioned away from existing outlets. The air drive delivers strong, responsive torque across all supported rim sizes.
Built-In Bead Sealing Jets
Integrated bead sealing jets are routed under the tabletop, allowing technicians to seat beads quickly without repositioning the tire. Tabletop inflation keeps the workflow in one place, reducing time per tire change and increasing throughput on busy days. The tower stores 3.4 gallons of bead seating air volume for consistent bead seating performance across a full shift.
Manual Swing Arm with Coats Duckhead Tool
The manual swing arm is easily repositioned to align the Coats Duckhead Mount/Demount Tool precisely with any rim in the clamped range. The swing-away design keeps the arm out of the technician's way during rotation and provides better access to the wheel during mount and demount phases. This reduces fatigue and improves accuracy, especially during back-to-back tire changes.
Foot Pedal Controls for Fluid Operation
Strategically placed foot pedals give technicians hands-free control over tire rotation and bead loosening, freeing both hands to manage the tire and tools. The pedal layout is designed to match the natural movement pattern of an experienced technician, reducing unnecessary motion and helping maintain a consistent, efficient pace throughout the workday.
Compact Chassis - Small Footprint, Full Capability
At 35" wide by 44" deep, the RC45A occupies significantly less floor space than competitive machines in the same capacity class. The compact design makes it well-suited for smaller independent shops, lube centers, and any facility where floor space is at a premium - without giving up the rim range or feature set expected from a professional tire changer.
Coats RC45A Applications
- Independent Auto Repair Shops: The RC45A's full 6"-24" rim range, built-in bead jets, and compact footprint make it an efficient daily workhorse for general repair shops handling a mixed-vehicle customer base - especially in shops where electrical outlet placement is a constraint.
- Tire Shops and Quick Lube Centers: Fast bead seating via tabletop inflation and foot pedal controls support high-volume tire change throughput, reducing per-tire time in operations where speed and consistency directly impact revenue.
- New Car Dealerships: Dealership service departments handling passenger cars, crossovers, trucks, and SUVs benefit from the RC45A's full car and light truck rim coverage in a single machine with a small floor footprint.
- Shops with Strong Air Infrastructure: Facilities that already run large air compressors for multiple tools find the RC45A a natural fit - the air drive system integrates seamlessly into existing shop air without adding electrical load.
- Fleet Service Centers: Fleet operators servicing vans, light trucks, and company cars need a reliable rim clamp changer with consistent clamping performance across a variety of wheel sizes. The RC45A delivers that in a durable, easily serviceable platform.
Coats RC45A Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Rim Diameter Range (External) | 6" - 24" |
| Maximum Tire Diameter | 50" |
| Maximum Rim Width | 10.5" |
| Wheel Clamping System | 4 Clamps, Air Cylinder Operated |
| Bead Loosening System | Foot Control, Up to 10.5" Wide |
| Mount/Demount Mechanism | Swing Away Arm |
| Vehicle Class | Car and Light Truck |
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Air Drive Motor | 1.5 HP |
| Air Drive Operating Pressure | 110 - 175 psi |
| Air Consumption | 15 scfm |
| Bead Seating Air Volume | 3.4 Gallons (in Tower) |
| Inflation Gauge Range | 0 - 60 psi |
| Air Supply Gauge Range | 0 - 300 psi |
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Machine Footprint | 35"W x 44"D x 70"H |
| Manual Arm Height | 28" |
| Tabletop Height | 29" |
| Ship Weight | 600 lbs |
| Model | Part Number |
|---|---|
| Air Model (RC45A) | 85609949 |
| Electric Model (RC45E) | 8560994901 |
Coats RC45A Video
Coats RC45A Installation Requirements
Air Supply Requirements
Pressure: The RC45A requires a shop air supply of 110 - 175 psi at 15 scfm to power the drive motor, wheel clamping system, and built-in bead sealing jets. A properly sized air compressor with a clean, dry air supply is required. Air system contamination including water, rust, or foreign debris can cause component failure and is not covered under warranty. An inline air filter/dryer is strongly recommended.
Electrical Requirements
Power: The RC45A air drive model does not require a dedicated electrical circuit for the drive system. However, shop lighting and any accessory equipment should be on appropriately sized circuits. If optional electric accessories are added, verify circuit capacity with a licensed electrician.
Space Requirements
Machine Footprint: 35"W x 44"D x 70"H. Adequate clearance around the machine is required for the technician to work safely and for the swing arm to operate through its full range of motion. Allow additional space for tire handling in front of and beside the machine during operation.
Professional Installation
Coats recommends professional installation and commissioning of the RC45A. Improper air supply - including insufficient pressure, inadequate flow rate, or contaminated air - may void warranty coverage on air-operated components. Operators should review the full installation section of the RC45/RC55 manual before placing the machine in service.
What's Included with the Coats RC45A
- Coats RC45A Rim Clamp Tire Changer (Air Model, Part No. 85609949)
- Coats Duckhead Mount/Demount Tool (steel, included with purchase - see brochure for nylon and hybrid upgrade options)
- Duckhead Mount/Demount Tool Inserts - 2 (Part No. 8182961)
- Operator's Manual
Optional Accessories: Auxiliary Bead Sealer - ABS (PN 85606545), Point of Use Lift System (PN 85608609), EL-X Express Lane Inflation System (PN 85607770), Nylon Duckhead Mount/Demount Tool (PN 8183061), Hybrid Duckhead Mount/Demount Tool (PN 85608959), Grey High Spoke Duckhead Tool (PN 8184432), Grip-Max Plus Clamps - 4 (PN 85607787), Grip-Max Plus Grips - 8 (PN 8560716108), Bead Loosener Shoe Socks - 2 (PN 8183606), Lift Tool Socks - 10 (PN 85000783), Paste Lube Bracket and Brush (PN 85009048), Paste Lube (PN 8183710), Steel Clamp Booties (PN 8183604), Manual Bead Depressor Kit (PN 85609077), Premium Storage Cabinet (PN 85610105).
Not Included: Shop air compressor, air line plumbing and fittings, installation labor.
Coats RC45A Shipping and Delivery
Freight Shipping
Coverage: Free freight shipping to commercial addresses in the 48 contiguous United States. Ship Weight: 600 lbs - delivered by freight carrier on a pallet. International: Contact our sales team for a freight quote outside the contiguous US.
Delivery Requirements
Unloading: A forklift or loading dock is required to unload the pallet at delivery. Delivery Type: Curbside freight delivery is standard - the carrier will not move the machine inside your facility. Inspection: Inspect all packages thoroughly for damage before signing the Bill of Lading. Note any visible damage on the delivery receipt before the driver departs.
Returns
Returns accepted within 30 days of delivery. Product must be unopened in original packaging with receipt. A 20% restocking fee applies. Buyer is responsible for return freight costs.
Coats RC45A Warranty
Coats RC Series Rim Clamp Tire Changer Limited Warranty
The RC45A is covered under the Coats Company LLC Limited Warranty for RC Series tire changers. Warranty coverage is as follows:
- 1 Year: Parts - covers defects in materials and workmanship
- 6 Months: Labor and on-site service charges
- 5 Years: Transmission (pro-rated after year 3: customer pays 60% of current list price in years 3-4, and 80% in years 4-5, for machines placed in service after January 1, 2014)
Requirements: Warranty applies to defects discovered and reported within the warranty period. Air-operated components must be supplied with clean, dry air - failures due to water, rust, or debris contamination are excluded. Warranty does not cover misuse, abuse, neglect, unauthorized alterations, or machines used in production environments. Wear items including wheel protectors, boots, booties, nylon mount/demount head, drive belt, Grip-Max clamp inserts, and bead loosener pads are excluded. Warranty is non-transferable and applies only to the original purchaser in the US and Canada. For warranty service, call 1-800-688-9240 (US) or 1-877-801-1405 (Canada).
Documents
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Questions About the Coats RC45A?
Our equipment specialists can help with installation planning, specifications, and product selection for your shop.
Coats RC45A FAQ
What rim sizes does the Coats RC45A handle?
The Coats RC45A handles external rim diameters from 6" to 24", covering the full range of passenger car and light truck wheels. Maximum rim width supported is 10.5" and maximum tire diameter is 50". This makes the RC45A well-suited for standard sedans, crossovers, trucks, and SUVs. It is not designed for heavy-duty commercial truck tires, which require a heavy-duty rim clamp or dedicated truck tire changer.
What air supply does the Coats RC45A require?
The RC45A requires a shop air supply of 110 - 175 psi at 15 scfm. This air supply powers the 1.5 HP drive motor for wheel rotation, the 4-clamp air cylinder clamping system, and the built-in bead sealing jets. A properly sized shop air compressor with clean, dry air is required. Coats strongly recommends an inline air filter and dryer to protect the air motor and clamp components - failures caused by contaminated air are not covered under warranty.
Does the RC45A need a dedicated electrical outlet?
No. The RC45A air drive model does not require any electrical connection for the drive system - the wheel rotation is powered entirely by compressed air. This makes it particularly useful in shops where routing a new electrical circuit to the tire changer location is impractical. The only electrical consideration would be for optional accessories added to the machine, which should be assessed on a case-by-case basis with a licensed electrician.
What is the difference between the RC45A (air) and RC45E (electric) models?
The RC45A and RC45E are the same machine with different drive systems. The RC45A (Part No. 85609949) uses a 1.5 HP air motor requiring 110 - 175 psi and 15 scfm for wheel rotation. The RC45E (Part No. 8560994901) uses a 1 HP electric motor on a standard 115V/60Hz/15A circuit for rotation instead. Both models require a shop air supply for the clamping system and bead sealing jets. Choose the RC45A if your shop has strong air infrastructure and limited electrical access near the machine; choose the RC45E if you prefer to keep air consumption lower or have convenient electrical access.
What is the footprint of the Coats RC45A?
The RC45A has a machine footprint of 35" wide by 44" deep by 70" tall. The tabletop sits at 29" off the floor and the manual swing arm reaches 28" in height. This compact chassis is notably smaller than many competing machines in the same capacity class, making the RC45A a popular choice for shops with limited bay floor space. Allow adequate clearance on all sides for safe technician movement and full swing arm operation.
What warranty does the Coats RC45A come with?
The RC45A is covered under the Coats RC Series Limited Warranty: 1 year on parts, 6 months on labor and on-site service charges, and a 5-year pro-rated transmission warranty for machines placed in service after January 1, 2014. The warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship only. It excludes misuse, contaminated air supply, unauthorized alterations, and normal wear items such as wheel protectors, booties, nylon mount/demount heads, and bead loosener pads. Warranty is non-transferable and applies to the original purchaser in the US and Canada only.
What is included with the Coats RC45A at purchase?
The RC45A ships as a complete, ready-to-operate tire changer and includes the machine (Part No. 85609949), the Coats Duckhead Mount/Demount Tool, two Duckhead tool inserts (Part No. 8182961), and the operator's manual. Optional accessories such as the Auxiliary Bead Sealer, Point of Use Lift System, and EL-X Express Lane Inflation System are available separately. Shop air compressor, air line plumbing, and installation labor are not included.
How is the Coats RC45A shipped and what should I expect on delivery?
The RC45A ships by freight carrier on a pallet at a ship weight of 600 lbs. Free freight shipping is provided to commercial addresses in the 48 contiguous United States. Delivery is curbside - the carrier will not move the machine into your bay. A forklift or loading dock is required for unloading. Before signing the Bill of Lading, inspect all packaging carefully for shipping damage and note any damage on the delivery receipt. Contact us immediately if damage is found.
Can the Coats RC45A be used on alloy and low-profile tires?
Yes. The RC45A is designed for both alloy and steel wheels across its full 6"-24" rim range. For alloy rim protection, Coats recommends the optional Grip-Max Plus Clamps (PN 85607787) and Grip-Max Plus Grips (PN 8560716108), which reduce the risk of marring alloy finishes during clamping. The Nylon Duckhead Mount/Demount Tool (PN 8183061) and Hybrid Duckhead (PN 85608959) are also available for added rim protection during the mount and demount process.
What routine maintenance does the Coats RC45A require?
Routine maintenance for the RC45A includes lubricating the mount/demount tool and bead area with tire mounting paste before each use, inspecting and replacing wear items such as bead loosener pads, clamp inserts, and wheel protector boots as needed, and maintaining a clean, dry air supply to protect the air motor and cylinder components. Contaminated air is a leading cause of air component failure and is not covered under warranty. Refer to the RC45/RC55 Installation and Operation Manual for the complete maintenance schedule.
What optional accessories are available for the Coats RC45A?
Coats offers a full range of accessories for the RC45A including the Auxiliary Bead Sealer - ABS (PN 85606545) for difficult beads, the Point of Use Lift System (PN 85608609) for easier tire handling, the EL-X Express Lane Inflation System (PN 85607770), Duckhead tool upgrades (nylon, hybrid, high-spoke), Grip-Max clamps and grips for alloy wheel protection, paste lube kits, bead loosener shoe socks, lift tool socks, steel clamp booties, a manual bead depressor kit, and a premium storage cabinet. Contact us for current pricing and availability.
How much air compressor capacity does my shop need to run the RC45A?
The RC45A requires 110 - 175 psi at 15 scfm for the air drive motor, plus additional flow capacity for the clamping system and bead sealing jets during operation. For a single-machine installation, a shop compressor rated for at least 5 HP with a 60-80 gallon tank is typically sufficient for moderate-volume tire changing. High-volume shops or facilities running multiple air tools simultaneously should size their compressor based on total combined scfm demand. Consult the RC45/RC55 manual or your compressor supplier for a site-specific recommendation.
California Proposition 65 Warning
WARNING: This product can expose you to chemicals including styrene and vinyl chloride, which are known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm. For more information, visit www.p65warnings.ca.gov.
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