Rimac valve spring testers have returned to the market with Specialty Auto Parts U.S.A. (PROFORM) as the exclusive distributor of Rimac branded products. “Specialty’s primary brand PROFORM has an extensive line of engine building tools and a vast distribution network, so when RIMAC approached us about partnering up it seemed like a win/win,” said Specialty Auto Parts’ Special Projects Manager, Booth Platt.

As a partner, Specialty Auto Parts U.S.A. will help distribute, provide technical support, and handle customer service for RIMAC’s iconic Big Blue Spring Testers.  The 1000 lb. Big Blue Spring Tester is now available in limited quantities and is popping up on websites and speed shops via Specialty’s wholesale distribution network.  A 500 lb. model and calibrated test springs are coming soon.

Background

RIMAC valve spring testers have been the industry standard for over 70 years, starting in 1929, nearly five months before The Great Depression. Professional engine builders, mechanics, and serious enthusiasts have despaired for years over the fact that the only way to get your hands on a used one is through an auction website and a $1,000 or more price tag., Providing you can find one at all. Most give up on finding a simple, dependable Rimac and opt for hydraulic or digital versions.

Finally, the Rimac Brand has returned with the quality, reliability, and standards that made it legendary to builders worldwide. The Big Blue Rimac 1000 lbs. capacity precision valve spring tester is specifically designed for quick and easy, rapid rating of multiple springs using high-torque, lever-actuated compression. The timeless vertical design ensures stability on the benchtop, and is ideal for use in the shop, but portable enough to take it in the trailer for race day.

Made from quality cast aluminum, it’s rugged enough for everyday use, and powder coated in familiar blue. The 4-1/4 in diameter gauge is easy to read with bold black numbering and graduation marks in both pounds and kilograms. Spring height values can be marked using the sliding indicator on the ruler. The upper and lower platforms are 2-1/4 (in.) and 3-1/4 (in.) diameter, respectively.

Features:

• Legendary valve spring tester is back
• Measure valve spring rating for maximum on-track performance
• Adjustable length arm for high-pressure springs
• Positive stop for spring height check repeatability
• Spring pressure from 0 to 1,000 lbs in 5 lb/kg increments
• Easy-to-read 4-1/4″ gauge in 0.01″  increments
• Ram spring travel from 0 to 4-1/8″
• Upper/lower platform: 2-1/4″ X 3-1/4″
• Check springs with or without the retainer

Historic Return

Officially born on March 13, 1930, the famous Rimac Spring Tester celebrated its United States Patent Application’s 91st birthday on March 13, 2021.  Invented by Mr. John J. McGuckin of Passaic, New Jersey, and brought to life by Rinck-McIlwaine, Inc. of New York City.

The Rimac Spring Tester held its place as the American standard in spring calibration and testing for the industry for decades.  With the designs of very few similarly intricate mechanical devices surviving as long, there are reasons the Rimac Spring Tester has remained so popular: It is easy to use, it is durable, and it is accurate. 

There was also a reason it disappeared from the market. While its design may be simple to understand, actually making the unit is a craft requiring skills only learned over time.  When the master craftsmen faded away, so did their device.  Now the Rimac Spring Tester has been resurrected, with Specialty Auto Parts as the exclusive Rimac brand distributor, making an important tool available to professional engine-builders and serious enthusiasts alike.

For more information on Rimac or PROFORM’s line of engine building tools, visit them online at www.rimac.com.