Ranger RL-8500 Brake Lathe Review -EricTheCarGuy

The Ranger RL-8500 brake lathe has become my new best friend.

Ranger RL-8500: http://www.bendpak.com/wheel-service/brake-lathes/rl-8500.aspx

Ranger RL-8500 $5545.00: http://www.bestbuyautoequipment.com/ranger-brake-lathe-p/RangerRL-8500.htm?gclid=COuplKGjtsgCFQ6maQodenUH5A

Ranger RL-8500XLT (heavy duty version): http://www.bendpak.com/wheel-service/brake-lathes/rl-8500xlt.aspx

Honestly, I had all but given up on machining rotors and drums in favor of replacement. That's all changed since I got my Ranger RL-8500. In the instances where machining is possible, this brake lathe makes all the difference. I would wager I could have a set of rotors machined and back on the car in less time than it would take you to go to the auto parts store and pick up new ones. As you know, time is money in the repair industry. Also, if you're working with a vehicle that has hard to find parts, reconditioning may be your only option.

Here's an interesting fact that many of you may not be aware of. Most rotor and drum manufacturers recommend putting a new surface on NEW rotors and drums before installation. Granted, it's rarely an issue, but it is something that's recommended.

All that said, I've been using the heck out of this lathe since I got it and haven't been disappointed. There was a bit of a learning curve, but I think I've got it down now. Some of the controls were a little confusing to me because I wasn't used to them. Now that I've learned to use them, they make a bit more sense.

I'd recommend this brake lathe to anyone considering purchasing one.

Camera: Brian Kast

Thanks for watching!

The best place for answers to your automotive questions: http://www.ericthecarguy.com

Discussion about this video: http://www.ericthecarguy.com/kunena/18-The-EricTheCarGuy-Video-Forum/60376-ranger-rl-8500-brake-lathe-review#149211

Tools

Rotor Measuring Tool: http://www.jbtoolsales.com/fowler-72-234-223-micrometer-disc-brake-w-digital-readout-metric#oid=1002_1

Digital Brake Drum Measuring Gauge: http://www.jbtoolsales.com/gearwrench-3777-digital-brake-drum-gauge#oid=1002_1

Related Videos

How To Replace Drum Brake Shoes: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MCpCkun2qxA

Removing Brake Drums the 'Easy' Way: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Po-WXqIKjHQ

How To Isolate Brake Pulsations: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AAbET9aKq_g

Drum Brakes, When To Discard: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OWcn6NzTxbg

Drum Brakes Quick Look: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AXMFVx8jJLU

Torquing Wheels and Why it's Important: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DA4ug4gHccM

Useful articles.

Engine overheat: http://www.ericthecarguy.com/faq/what-to-do-when-your-engine-overheats

No start problems: http://www.ericthecarguy.com/faq/solving-automotive-no-start-problems

Idle issues: http://www.ericthecarguy.com/faq/solving-automotive-idle-problems

Performance issues: http://www.ericthecarguy.com/faq/solving-automotive-performance-issues

Diagnosing Noises: http://www.ericthecarguy.com/faq/diagnosing-noises-in-your-car

Diagnosing Vibrations: http://www.ericthecarguy.com/faq/determining-the-causes-of-vehicle-vibrations

Electrical Problems: http://www.ericthecarguy.com/faq/solving-automotive-electrical-problems

Brake Issues: http://www.ericthecarguy.com/faq/solving-brake-problems

Transmission issues: http://www.ericthecarguy.com/faq/solving-transmission-problems

HVAC problems: http://www.ericthecarguy.com/faq/solving-automotive-hvac-problems

Buying a Used Car: http://www.ericthecarguy.com/faq/what-to-look-for-in-a-used-car-purchase

Leaks: http://www.ericthecarguy.com/faq/finding-and-fixing-leaks

MPG: http://ericthecarguy.com/faq/finding-and-fixing-the-causes-of-poor-mpg

The best place for answers to your automotive questions: http://www.ericthecarguy.com

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ETCG

Due to factors beyond the control of EricTheCarGuy, it cannot guarantee against unauthorized modifications of this information, or improper use of this information.  EricTheCarGuy assumes no liability for property damage or injury incurred as a result of any of the information contained in this video. EricTheCarGuy recommends safe practices when working with power tools, automotive lifts, lifting tools, jack stands, electrical equipment, blunt instruments, chemicals, lubricants, or any other tools or equipment seen or implied in this video.  Due to factors beyond the control of EricTheCarGuy, no information contained in this video shall create any express or implied warranty or guarantee of any particular result.  Any injury, damage or loss that may result from improper use of these tools, equipment, or the information contained in this video is the sole responsibility of the user and not EricTheCarGuy.