Not long ago, OEMs would not endorse resistance welding products. Now they not only endorse them but insist upon their use in repairing the rapidly changing types of metals used in the manufacture of today's vehicles. This has opened up a whole new market for Car-O-Liner, which previously marketed welding products through Pro-Spot, according to Terry Acton, North American product manager for the Car-O-Liner Welding Division. 

The unit has four welding cables to provide quick access to two-sided, single-sided and other types of welding without switching tools. This promotes efficient and rapid welding work.

"Car-O-Liner's vast distribution network indicated that expansion into the welding product market would be of benefit both to our company and our customers. We already have an in-place, knowledgeable distribution network of people to call for help when problems crop up. Our customers can make a phone call and know there is real help immediately available to them," explained Acton.

What's old is new again

Resistance welding was developed in the 1880s - over 125 years ago. However, its use in the aftermarket to repair cars is relatively new. Resistance welding has become popular because it improves the quality of the repair - making it look more like the factory original. In addition, resistance welding is 80% faster than traditional MIG welding - improving cycle time in shops. Ironically, since resistance welding began all those years ago, the basic elements have remained the same - pressure, time and current. What has changed is the ability to control those elements.

To that end, one of the more unique features of the Car-O-Liner resistance welders is that the welder is programmable with an on-board computer. This also allows the shop owner to update the equipment rather than replacing it as OEM specifications change. As the equipment gets older, it does not become obsolete. The actual welding equipment stays the same but can be updated by changing the software in the computer.

"Our CR500 inverter welder is the star of the show. The idea behind using inverter technology is that this type of equipment is not so sensitive to the voltage fluctuations in the shops. The inverters, in conjunction with capacitors, actually store up a small amount of electrical charge before the weld begins, consequently asking the electrical grid for less power during the actual weld process. This eliminates problems caused by spikes in the voltage supply," Acton continued.

Of particular interest to shop owners who are considering purchasing welding equipment from Car-O-Liner is the fact that the company offers I-CAR-approved training. Technicians who have passed the welding training for this equipment can apply for I-CAR gold points with no further class time. Few other companies offer this benefit.

Uninterested third-party inspection

Car-O-Liner welding equipment is ETL and UL listed, showing the customer that it has been evaluated by an uninterested third-party. Equipment with the power to injure makes the testing and listing process all the more important - ensuring that the equipment meets industrial standards. The prohibitive cost notwithstanding, Car-O-Liner felt it was worthwhile to make this expenditure to demonstrate confidence in the quality of their products and the company's commitment to safety in the collision repair industry.

Third-party testing is not yet a legal requirement for resistance welders, but if the time comes that the law requires uninterested third-party evaluation, these products will have already passed muster.

Updating traditional welders

Car-O-Liner is also expanding into a line of MIG/MAG (wire feed) welders due to the increased use of aluminum and silicon bronze, presently used by Europeans manufacturers, coming to the U.S. These welders are also computer controlled - capable of using information generated by OEMs and now available to the aftermarket.