Safelite Rolls Out New Windshield Replacement Tool
COLUMBUS, Ohio – June 28, 2011 Safelite AutoGlass® – a leader in customer service for vehicle glass repair and replacement – is in the process of introducing a proprietary toolbox of equipment to improve the windshield replacement process.
The kit includes several innovative, exclusive tools: the EZI-Wire® and the Lil Buddy Pro 2. Safelite® has made a significant investment in these tools, which are currently being rolled out in select Safelite® markets across the U.S. These tools better protect the vehicle and the glass during replacement, and because the glass is less likely to be broken during the process, clean-up time and effort is reduced.
The EZI-Wire® provides a safe and controlled way of using a wire to remove a bonded windshield. It not only minimizes the possible risk to both the operator and vehicle during the process, but also enables the removal of both the windshield and allows the moldings to stay intact. The cutting wire is positioned against the urethane on the outside edge of the glass and around the equipment, then gradually wound in, cutting through the urethane in the process.
The main advantages of using the EZI-Wire® are:
•The cut is clean and tidy and the vehicle is easily protected using the equipment provided.
•No tugging or pulling is required to achieve the cutting action.
•It reduces the physical effort involved by the technician and the possible injuries that can occur.
The Lil Buddy Pro 2 is a lightweight, transportable tool that enables a single technician to easily maneuver, and accurately position replacement windshields. Through careful placement, the Lil Buddy supports one end of the replacement glass while the technician lifts and positions the other end. This not only eliminates the need for a second technician, but also reduces the risk of injury during the lifting process. No electricity is required for the Lil Buddy Pro 2, and because of its compactness, it can be used in narrow areas or workshops that are tight on space.
“These tools not only enable us to perform a safer, cleaner replacement, they help protect our technicians from bodily wear-and-tear,” said Scott Gardner, Safelite AutoGlass® Director of Technical and Operational Training.
The roll-out is expected to be complete by the end of 2012.
About Safelite AutoGlass®
Safelite AutoGlass®, founded in 1947, is the nation’s leading provider of vehicle glass repair and replacement services, providing mobile service to more than 95 percent of the U.S. population in all 50 states. The Columbus, Ohio-based company employs nearly 10,000 people across the United States and served 4 million customers last year. For more information, visit www.safelite.com.