‘Hear’ problems before they become breakdowns

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Tracer Products has introduced the Tracerline Marksman ultrasonic diagnostic tool, an instrument designed to convert and amplify inaudible ultrasonic sound into audible “natural” sound. Tracer says the tool allows service technicians to hear sounds that might signify problems such as air brake leaks, gear and bearing wear, as well as vacuum, EVAP system, exhaust, refrigerant and passenger compartment leaks, allowing technicians to repair them long before they become breakdowns.

The Marksman uses a two-tiered process, according to the company: First, the receiver unit converts inaudible sound into audible sound using a process known as heterodyning; second, the receiver’s Sound Signal Technology fine-tunes the audible sound into the natural sound emitted by the defect itself. A 10-bar LED display indicates the intensity of incoming signals from the problem source.

The TP-9370 Marksman Master Kit comes with a receiver, full-sized headphones, two anodized probes and an ultrasonic emitter that allows technicians to test for faulty seals, gaskets and weather stripping in passenger compartments, trailer bodies and other unpressurized enclosures. When attached to the receiver, the 12-inch hollow probe accentuates air sounds, while the solid contact probe accentuates sounds of wear or grinding inside gears. Standard 9-volt alkaline batteries are included for both the receiver and the emitter. All components are packed in a sturdy storage case with foam insert.

For more information, go to www.tracerline.com.