See what is NEW at Chance Rides

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Welcome to the new ChanceRides.com.  We are making it easier for you to find the amusement ride, coaster and people mover information that you need. You can also subscribe to our newsletter and our blog to make sure that you are getting the latest information from Chance Rides.

In addition to our website update we have added a web store for our replacement parts.  You can find this under the services menu.  Or you can bookmark parts.chancerides.com.  We are working to build the store offering one product at a time.  Currently you can find replacement parts for Zippers and C.P. Huntington trains.

At Chance Rides our philosophy is, “If we can help our customers be successful then we will be successful.”  We welcome any feedback you might have to help us bring you greater success.

As we begin our preparations for IAAPA Expo 2017, I am very excited about the new things we have to show you this year.  For the first time in several years we will have a ride experience right inside our booth.  You’ll be able to board the Unicoaster 2.0 seat and experience the user-controlled rotation.  The original Unicoaster was originally introduced in 2010 with our first ride installed at Belmont Park in San Diego, CA in 2011.  We have now taken the Unicoaster outside the circle, with the same rider-controlled design you can now treat guests to the experience of a looping coaster.  This amusement ride is perfect for catering to thrill seekers of all levels.  If the guest is more into a mild thrill they can remain upright traveling the course, while the more dramatic thrill seekers can flip and flop throughout the entire ride.

Unicoaster 2.0

In addition to the Unicoaster 2.0 we will again have a beautiful C.P. Huntington Locomotive in our booth, however, this is no ordinary C.P. Huntington.  Our latest model is fully battery powered.  The new technology involved with operating the classic C.P. Huntington on battery power will significantly reduce the required maintenance that is typically associated with a combustion engine.  Not to mention showing your guests that you care about the environment, as our Electric C.P. Huntington Locomotive has zero emissions of harmful gasses. The show model is currently being tested at our facility to prove that it will sustain all day operation at your venue.  Stop by booth #5124 to see the locomotive and let us share all that we’ve learned from the test runs.

Electric C.P. HuntingtonChance Rides also has some guest passes available for IAAPA Expo 2017.  If you still need a pass for the show please contact Lisa Hargrove at lisa.hargrove@chancerides.com.  We look forward to seeing you there!

 

 

 

 

2016 Year in Review

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2016 Will Be Gone In A Flash

The holidays bring about a time for us all to hit the reset button at Chance Rides.  Our factory is closed between Christmas and New Years so that we may spend a little extra time with our families, perform some building maintenance and get prepared for the demands of the upcoming spring deliveries.  Before we start shutting down for the year I want to take a moment to look back on the year we’ve had.

Gone But Never Forgotten

First I will address what was clearly the most difficult part of our year.  The passing of our beloved president Michael Chance was a huge shock to all of us.  At IAAPA this year we gave our customers, colleagues and friends an opportunity to write down their memories of Michael to share with the family.  Those memories were collected following the show and shared with his family during their Thanksgiving gathering.  It has been an honor to see, hear and feel just how loved Michael was among this industry.

Asian Expo

The first big trade show that Chance Rides participates in every year is the Asian Expo.  This year the event was in Shanghai.  It was well traveled and our sales team managed to gather many leads on custom carousels, flat rides and C.P. Huntington trains.  We will be exhibiting at AAE 2017 next June in Singapore.

AZA

In September our show focus moves to the animals.  The Association for Zoos and Aquariums is a great partner to Chance Rides and we exhibit at their trade show so that we can educate zoos and aquariums on ways to add revenue producing attractions to their facilities.  In 2017 we will be installing new carousels and trains at the Mesker Park Zoo, and the Ecotarium as well as several other opportunities still pending.

IAAPA

For the amusement industry our largest and most productive trade show of the year is the IAAPA Expo held every November in Orlando, FL.  We send a full team of executives, sales managers, engineers and marketers to meet, greet and promote all that Chance Rides has to offer.  As the largest ride manufacturer in North America it is difficult to tell our story in one show floor but we do our best to take a sampling of our latest and greatest offerings.  This year we had on display our renovated Zipper ride seat that now features an over-the-shoulder harness and a clear-view door.  We also had the pleasure of working with SeaWorld to unveil one of their newest rides the Ocean Explorer.  In the booth we displayed a scale model of the ride vehicle that is still in development at the factory to incorporate some all new technology. The ride will be an interactive experience for the guests and SeaWorld will use it as a fun way to educate their guests on the wonders of the ocean. And we are expanding our Ferris wheel offering including 2 more wheel sizes that will feature enclosed cabins for an observation experience.  In our booth we had on display the gondola for the DGW 35 and the DGW 45 named for being 35 and 45 meters tall, respectively.
The show was successful for us in capturing many new leads and completing some deals in progress.  We look forward to all that 2017 has to offer.

SLA Tradeshow

We return from IAAPA in time to celebrate Thanksgiving with all of our families and then turn back around to Las Vegas where we attend the Showmen’s League of America trade show.  The SLA show is a much more intimate experience than IAAPA and it is a chance to spend time with carnival operators that either don’t attend IAAPA or don’t have time to see every manufacturer there.  The event is held in the convention center at the Bally’s hotel and allows for several vendors to set up in small booth with just a table and chairs.   This event gave us even more people that are interested in the redesigned Zipper seat as well as a few of the other classic Chance portable rides.  We also have a couple of opportunities that we are exploring with the new enclosed gondola wheels (DGW35 & DGW45).
We will finish 2016 strong and come back refreshed after an extended break with the family so that we can hit all of our pending spring deliveries.  We look forward to working with you in 2017 and beyond.

Meanwhile around the factory …

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Did You Think the Zipper Was the Only Game in Town?

Just to set things straight, the Zipper is not the only bit of excitement flowing through the Chance Rides rides factory.  Come with me as I give you a look around the shop.
Unicoaster Unicoaster Unicoaster

 

UNICOASTER

CP Huntington 390CP Huntington 390

 

 

 

 

 

CLASSIC RED C.P. HUNTINGTON TRAIN – Ready for delivery

Carousel Hummingbird Carousel Otter Carousel Sadle

 

 

 

 

 

CAROUSEL FIGURES – My pictures do not do justice to the wonderful detail on these figures.  The saddle on the otter is a beautiful iridescent finish.  And the hummingbird looks like something you might see in your flower bed this summer.
Roller Coaster IMG_3817

 

 

 

 

 

ROLLER COASTER – Even the foundation pieces look interesting.

Stay tuned as these and other Chance Rides creations find their new homes.

 

Seeking a Field Service Controls Technician

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Chance Rides is Seeking a Field Service Controls Technician

Chance Rides Manufacturing Inc. (CRM) is a leading manufacturing of amusement rides and people movers, located in Wichita, Kansas, for amusement parks, carnivals, zoos and malls worldwide.  Please take an opportunity to see all the products our company manufactures at www.chancerides.com.  CRM a family owned business and has been manufacturing quality rides for over 50 years.  Currently, CRM is seeking a Field Service Controls Technician.  Job Summary includes (but not limited to):
Primary Job Duties
  • Utilize electrical/controls knowledge to comprehend all facets of the electrical/controls assembly, electrical component installations and quality process of the company’s product lines:
    • Control Panel Design and component selection
    • PLC Programming
    • HMI Panel Programming
    • Motor Drives – control and interfacing
    • Safety Circuit / Safety Product Risk Assessment
  • Effectively install products and troubleshoot issues onsite.
  • Travel as needed to customer locations (domestic and/or international) to install or troubleshoot with high regard of customer service and quality.
  • Oversee installation projects onsite by delegating, communicating, organizing and facilitating effectively.
Job Requirements
Candidates should meet the following requirements:
  •  Minimum of Associates Degree from an accredited technical institution; BS degree in Electrical Engineering / Technology or related field a plus.
  • Minimum of 3-5 years’ experience in implementing control systems; design experience preferred
  • Previous experience with Allen-Bradley and Siemens control systems
  • Excellent organizational skills, ability to delegate tasks, and experience with customer relations
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills (written and oral)
  • A proven understanding of electrical/controls engineering and assembly, project management, and quality assurance programs. 
  • Experience with amusement rides controls a plus.
  • Ability to travel, expected 75% of the year, sometimes for extended periods (both domestic and international). 
  • Must be able to climb, stoop, and crawl.
  • Ability to work at various heights on man lifts or amusement rides.
  • Must be able to work in inclement weather.
  • Ability to be a self-starter and work alone at times.
  • Hydraulics and pneumatics troubleshooting is a plus.
  • Ability to work weekends and holidays as needed.
This position includes a competitive salary, (commensurate with experience) with a comprehensive benefit package (including paid time off).  CRM is an equal opportunity employer.  Please apply online to jobopenings@chancerides.com.

 

Seeking a New Field Service Technician

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Chance Rides is Seeking a New Field Service Technician

WE SPECIALIZE IN THE ART OF MOVEMENT!

Chance Rides Manufacturing, a family owned and operated company located in Wichita, KS has been delivering entertainment to the amusement industry since 1961. We take pride in being a leading manufacturer of amusement rides and people movers worldwide.

For over 50 years Chance Rides has been at the heart of manufacturing excellence in the amusement industry. Now in the third generation of family ownership, Chance Rides is committed to continuing that standard of excellence for another 50 years and beyond.As we continue to develop and manufacture new and exciting product lines, we are currently seeking an experienced Field Service Technician.
Job Duties (include but not limited to):
  • Utilize mechanical and electrical knowledge to comprehend all facets of the mechanical assembly, electrical component installations and quality process of the company’s product lines
  • Effectively install products and troubleshoot issues onsite
  • Travel as needed to customer locations (domestic and/or international) to install or troubleshoot with high regard to customer service and quality
  • Oversee installation projects onsite by delegating, communicating, organizing and facilitating effectively
Job Requirements
Candidates should meet the following:
  • At least 3 years of experience overseeing assembly and installation of specialized manufactured amusement ride products
  • At least 5 years of assembly experience (mechanical or electrical) required
  • A proven understanding of electrical/mechanical engineering and assembly, project management, and quality assurance programs 
  • Experience installing amusement rides a plus 
  • Ability to travel, expected 60% of the year, sometimes for extended periods (both domestic and international) 
  • Excellent organizational skills, proven ability to delegate tasks, and experience with customer relations a must
  • Strong communication (oral and written), interpersonal, computer and mobile device skills required
  • Ability to lift 75 pounds and move with it
  • Knowledge of personal protective equipment and how to use it
  • Knowledge of construction equipment such as cranes, man lifts, fork lifts and other equipment as needed
  • Must be able to climb, stoop, and crawl
  • Ability to work at various heights on man lifts or amusement rides
  • Must be able to work in inclement weather
  • Ability to be a self-starter and work alone at times
  • Hydraulics and pneumatics troubleshooting is a plus
  • Current passport or the ability to obtain one
  • Ability to work weekends and holidays as needed

This position includes a competitive salary, (commensurate with experience) with a comprehensive benefit package that includes Medical/Dental/Vision along with flexible spending accounts, 401(k) with company match and paid time off. Chance Rides is an equal opportunity employer. To apply, please submit resume to jobopenings@chancerides.com.

Made in America with Pride!

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ABC News Made In America

Chance Rides had the recent privilege of  being featured in a national news production focusing on American manufacturing.  ABC World News Tonight with David Muir does a running feature they call Made in America.  I was contacted by their producer earlier this summer about participating in the show.  They have featured products from footballs to flashlights and pizzas to cookies.  They were excited to take a look at all the products we are manufacturing right here in Wichita, KS.  Maggy Patrick from ABC News flew into Wichita with camera in hand and spent the day with us capturing the full story of Chance Rides.  Once she left we all just kept wondering how on earth she was going to get her few hours of story and video down to just a one or two minute news segment.  There is no doubt it is a quick story but we think they captured the essence of what we do at Chance Rides pretty well and we thank them for coming.

Take a look for yourself here.

 

2015 Houston Livestock Show VIP Tour and Hospitality Event

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logo_houston_livestock_show_rodeo_blkLast weekend was the 2nd annual Chance Rides VIP Event at the Houston Livestock Show.  We again had the help of Ray Cammack Shows to provide a spectacular tour of their midway operation.  And of course we took the opportunity to introduce our guests to the fantastic Freestyle ride that Ray Cammack Shows operates on their Midway.

RCS Freestyle

We appreciate the time that all of our guests took to come out and enjoy the tour as well as the review of our rides.  We had about 25 guests in all that enjoyed an amazing tour, a catered dinner in the RCS hospitality tent and all access to the Houston Livestock Show Midway.  Many thanks to the Ray Cammack Shows team for providing such an unforgettable experience.

To find our more about the portable rides available from Chance Rides as we refocus our efforts in the Carnival market please contact Jeff Miller at 316-945-6555.  Or email sales@chancerides.com.

Lightning Run Enters 2014 in the Top 25 Steel Coasters

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Lightning Run, the new Hyper GT-X roller coaster built by Chance Rides has debuted in the Top 25 of the Top 50 Steel Roller Coasters list.  Lightning Run was also nominated for Best New Ride for the 2014 Golden Ticket Awards and was a top 5 finalist.  It was an honor to be a part of bringing Kentucky Kingdom back to life and the Lightning Run roller coaster will continue to delight thrill-seekers for years to come.  Click here to see the full list.

Hyper GTX Coaster

Photo courtesy of Marcus Dorsey flickr – Lightning Run – Kentucky Kingdom

 

Freestyle a Midway Hit

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Ray Cammack Shows wrapped up the carnival at the OC Fair in Costa Mesa, California yesterday.  Did you have a chance to ride the new Freestyle ride?  Freestyle is the new update to the original one-trailer ride the Trabant.  Seats were turned to face outward and the ride lifts to 60 degrees with lots of action both horizontal and vertical.  See for yourself in this video posted by a fan on YouTube.

Your next chance to go Freestyle will be at the LA County Fair, opening on August 29th.  Let us know what you think!

Freestyle Family Riders

 

49 Things you Probably Didn’t Know About Wichita

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We made the list, #22 on the list of 49 Things You Probably Didn’t Know About Wichita, as compiled by Movoto, a local real estate company.

22. Wichita’s Chance Rides (formerly Chance Rides Manufacturing) is the world’s leading manufacturer of amusement rides. Notable rides built by the company include Seattle’s famous Great Wheel and the Eagles Life in the Fast Lane coaster at Hard Rock Park in Myrtle Beach.

Seattle Great Wheel

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Check out the rest of the list to learn more about our humble city here.  http://www.movoto.com/wichita-ks/wichita-facts/