Tyres & Wheels: The knowledge you need to keep your customers’ tyres and wheels safe

WHEEL AND TYRE CARE TRIPS

Courtesy of ‘shine authority’ Meguiar’s

Meguiar’s has been cleaning and caring for wheels and tyres on the world’s planes, trains and automobiles since 1901. It says the below is what it has learnt in those 120plus years: 1. Wheels must be cool to the touch for cleaning.

If they’re hot or even warm, you run the risk of damaging their finish. 2. Wash your wheels first – otherwise there’s a good chance crud from cleaning the wheels and tyres will splash all over your freshly washed paintwork. 3. Clean your wheels regularly. Brake dust left for too long will etch into the wheel’s surfaces – at which point it will be almost impossible to ever get them looking new again. 4. Avoid highly acidic wheel cleaners, when used incorrectly they have the potential to ruin your wheel’s finish. If in doubt, test on a small inconspicuous area. 5. If your wheels are heavily soiled, you’ll need a powerful wheel cleaner – like Meguiar’s Factory

Equipped Wheel and Tyre Cleaner. Even then,

Meguiar’s only recommend it for OEM wheels that are clear-coated or chromed. 6. For regular wheel cleaning, as well as for polished/billet wheels, Meguiar’s says its

Ultimate All Wheel Cleaner is its safest, most gentle wheel cleaner. It also has a colouractivated formula to help with the cleaning process. *Note: Wheel cleaning only removes contamination, therefore billet and/or uncoated wheels will need to be periodically polished to keep them shining. 7. Wheel and tyre cleaning is always more effective with agitation. Meguiar’s says its Wheel Face

Brush and Universal Wheel Brush are ideal for getting into every surface and into all those fine detail areas. 8. Use an old chamois or drying towel to dry your wheels. This is especially important with polished/billet/un-coated wheels, as they’re quite prone to water spotting. Compressed air, or an electric leaf blower are also great for drying wheels. 9. After scrubbing the tyres clean, apply a tyre dressing to improve appearance. A premium dressing will also protect against UV attack, cracking, browning and premature ageing.

Beware of cheap dressings, they wash off at the first sight of water and have a horrible tendency to sling residue up the side of your car. 10.Meguiar’s has three different dressings for a few different looks. Long lasting Endurance Tire

Gel will give your tyres that ‘new’ look through to moderately shiny. Whereas, Insane Shine (aerosol) and Hot Shine (pump pack) deliver a deep, dark, ultra wet-look that Meguiar’s says lasts for weeks. For more information, visit www.meguiars.com.au

MEGABUS SOFTWARE DELIVERS DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION

Megabus Software’s Marlin Blue is said to be transforming the Tyre and Auto industry

For many years, Tyre and Auto Workshops have relied on Megabus software to manage day-to-day operations like estimating, invoicing, workshop planning, stock control, accounts receivable, accounts payable, general ledger, STP compliant payroll and eCommerce. “The product mix, service offerings and sourcing of customers for your workshop have changed – prepare for the future with one solution - Marlin Blue,” Megabus Software Sales Executive, Gary Garner, said. “Digital transformation is the integration of digital technology into all areas of your business. It fundamentally changes how you operate, deliver value and interact with your customers.” “In the Tyre and Auto industry, what we are describing is elimination of paper, manual entry, double handling, and the use of mobile technology.” “Using technology such as SMS, e-mail, eCommerce, online vehicle look-up, online parts catalogues and web carts, website integration, tyre fitment finder, visual business planner – we are on the road to digitally transforming the way we work, setting new experiences for your staff and customers.” So what does digital transformation look like? Megabus Software says an element of digital transformation is the transition to SaaS and cloud platforms. Overhauls of process, operations and customer experience are all essential components of a digital transformation. Transforming processes

Digital transformation means using digital technologies in reshaping processes to gain efficiency. An example is eCommerce – a process sending information between trading partners. Here you generate a purchase order, which travels instantly to the supplier’s eCommerce system. The supplier then sends a Delivery Docket or Invoice back then accepted with one click on delivery, updating inventories and general ledger immeaditely. Employees no longer spend time drafting and submitting purchase orders; and your inventory is accurate, you know what you owe your suppliers, and your Back office will be in better shape, flowing through to your P&L. Transforming operations

An example here can be found in your online parts portal. Here, your customer needs brake pads. From Marlin Blue you move to your portal, find the correct parts, understand how long the job takes – and order whilst there. Parts will be returned to your customer quote, and your supplier sends a document via eCommerce – eliminating errors and delays, ensuring the customer experience is best as possible. Transforming the customer experience

Digital transformations change the way that we interact with customers. Digital interactions with customers include: • accepting enquiries and bookings into your

Business Planner via website; • emailing quotes and setting follow ups; • sending SMS to confirm booking and pick up times; • sending real-time information while a vehicle is in the workshop and gaining instant approval for additional work if required; • emailing your Invoice and accept payment via popular payment platforms; • staying in touch with your customer for maintenance; • sharing special offers to bring them back for regular checks and repairs; and • selling via online market places such as your website, Amazon, Facebook, EBay and Catch For more information, contact Megabus Software on info@megabus.com.au - quote AAA Magazine promo for implementation savings.

TYRES FROM ROCKET INDUSTRIES

Rocket Industries has a range of tyres available, including “record breaking” Mickey Thompson Tyres

Mickey Thompson manufactures a large range of tyres for street and racing applications to suit all styles of vehicles. ET Street Street R Rocket Industries says Mickey Thompson Tyres are synonymous with breaking records and are one of the most trusted motorsport tyre brands in the world. Amongst the range available from Rocket Industries are the following. ET Street S/S

A street tyre that can be driven on the track, the ET Street S/S from Mickey Thompson is a high performance street to strip tyre with radial construction, R2 compound and more; offering 15- to 20-inch fitments. It has an equivalent tread void as the ET Street Radial II, redistributed for improved hydroplane resistance while providing plenty of tread contact for excellent dry traction. Rocket Industries says the proven R2 compound is the same proven compound used on the quickest “drag radials” on the planet and provides superior traction at the strip with little or no burnout required; while the tyre’s tubeless construction provides leak-free seal without the expense and hassle of tubes. ET Street R

A drag tyre that can be driven on the street, the ET Street R from Mickey Thompson is a D.O.T street legal (in America) drag tyre with proven race compounds and incredible traction. Rocket Industries explains that the minimal tread void of this tyre provides excellent tread-contact. It is available in most popular sizes and its tubeless construction provides leak-free seal without the expense and hassle of tubes. Sportsman S/T

Mickey Thompson Sportsman S/T tyres are designed for original muscle car owners demanding performance, quality and style. Available with optional raised white letters or a black sidewall with a low-profile look, the tyre provides the wide all season performance handling muscle car drivers demand. It is available in popular sizes for muscle cars and features a flat tread profile for both handling and long tread life as well as radial construction for a smooth ride and long mileage. Sportsman S/R

Rocket Industries says the Mickey Thompson Sportsman S/R is the “undisputed classic hot rod tyre.” The Sportsman S/R radial is built in Mickey Thompson’s unique “flamed” tread pattern which provides improved wet traction, and the extra wide rears with matching skinny fronts reportedly make for the best combination available. The matching front and rear tread pattern allows for staggered fitments. Rocket Industries explains that the radial construction of these tyres provides higher mileage and a smooth ride. Custom sizes are available for street rods and muscle cars, as are tyres for 15-, 17-, 18-, and 20-inch wheel diameters. For more information, please contact Rocket Industries on 02 8825 1900 or visit www.rocketind.com

SR S/T

BRIDGESTONE RECOGNISES LEADING STORES

Bridgestone Names Hendra, Broome and Warrnambool as Top Performing Stores in Annual DRIVE program

Bridgestone Select Hendra in Brisbane continues to set the benchmark for Bridgestone with backto-back National Franchise of the Year titles for the store owned by Caleb Sos. National honours also went to James and Lynda Hagan’s Bridgestone Service Centre Broome for the Service Centre of the Year category, Peter Baulch and Bridgestone Service Centre Warrnambool for the Truck Store of the year accolade, while Garth and Leanne Pettersen and Bridgestone Select Keperra in Brisbane claimed New Store of the Year. According to National Franchise of the Year store owner, Caleb Sos, the back-to-back wins were a surprise to him, but a team-wide effort. “Our focus at Bridgestone Select Hendra has always been to go above and beyond – putting our customers first and ensuring that we have a safe and healthy environment for our staff, and clearly that is a formula that is working,” Caleb said. “It’s a huge honour to win store of the year once, but to win two years in a row is amazing and reflects the incredible commitment from the team, led by store manager Darren Proctor.” DRIVE is the national recognition program for Bridgestone Select and Bridgestone Service Centres around the country. Launched in 2020, DRIVE sees stores benchmarked in line with Bridgestone values of customer centricity, delivering a leading customer experience and exceptional value for tyre and auto services. The program recognises the top stores nationally and by region across three main categories: Franchise of the Year for Bridgestone Select stores, Store of the Year for Bridgestone Service Centres, and Truck Store of the Year for the best performing store for Bridgestone truck, bus and retread sales. A dedicated New Store of the Year Award is also awarded amongst Bridgestone Select locations in their first three years of trading – contested between 17 stores in 2021. Bridgestone Australia and New Zealand Managing Director Heath Barclay is proud that the focus of the Bridgestone network remained on the customer despite the challenges of 2021. “We’re delighted to recognise our DRIVE program winners and showcase their commitment to customers – especially our national winners: Bridgestone Select Hendra, Bridgestone Service Centre Broome, Bridgestone Service Centre Warrnambool, and Bridgestone Select Keperra,” Heath said. “The DRIVE program highlights the effort our network makes in delivering exceptional service, value for money and continuing to build trust with customers. Despite lockdowns and a continually changing business landscape, our stores have remained fixed on these core values and continue to do our brand proud.” The following stores were recognised as part of the DRIVE Program: • Franchise of the Year - National Winner/QLD – Bridgestone Select Hendra - NSW/ACT – Bridgestone Select Rutherford - VIC/TAS – Bridgestone Select Hobart - SA/NT – Bridgestone Select Norwood - WA – Bridgestone Select Busselton

PUNCTURE REPAIR

A convenience product can help keep you driving

Holts Tyreweld Emergency Puncture Repair requires no tools and has a unique twist button, automatic transfer system. By simply attaching the end of the tube to the tyre valve and twisting the red button, the driver can move away from the roadside, whilst the Holts Tyreweld goes to work, dispersing into the tyre in seconds and working instantly by coating the inside of the tyre to seal the puncture. The gas inside the can inflates the tyre, making it possible to drive on immediately. The temporary repair system is sufficient in getting the vehicle to the tyre shop for a full repair; withstanding a maximum speed of 80kph. Holts Tyreweld is a water-based rubber solution that can repair punctures up to 5mm in diameter, which accounts for approximately 95 percent of punctures. It is not toxic; easily washed or wiped away and is non-damaging to rims and tyres; and can easily be disposed of by tyre repair shops, as it is not hazardous or flammable. Holts Tyreweld can be safely stored inside the vehicle in both hot and cold weather, as the Tyreweld cans are made from one piece of aluminium, and can withstand temperatures of up to 97°C. When cold weather is at play, Tyreweld will work in temperatures as low as -10°C.

Bridgestone Select Hendra manager Darren Proctor and store owner Caleb Sos have won back to back DRIVE titles.

• New Store of the Year: Bridgestone Select

Keperra (QLD) • Service Centre of the Year - National/WA – Bridgestone Service Centre Broome - QLD – Bridgestone Service Centre Charters Towers - NSW/ACT – Bridgestone Service Centre Laurieton - VIC/TAS – Bridgestone Service Centre Warrnambool - SA/NT – Bridgestone Service Centre Mount Gambier • Truck Store of the Year - National/VIC – Bridgestone Service Centre Warrnambool - QLD – Bridgestone Service Centre Gladstone - NSW/ACT – Bridgestone Service Centre Kempsey - SA/NT – Bridgestone Service Centre Ceduna - WA – Bridgestone Service Centre Wedgefield (Port Hedland) For more information, visit www.bridgestone.com.au

Holts says it is compatible with all Tyre Pressure Monitoring Systems and will not cause damage. It covers tyre sizes for small cars, 2WD and 4WD vehicles, with three different sized cans. For further information, contact Filpro Automotive Australia on 08 8193 9675 or info@filpro.com.au

THE “MOVABLE MOBILE” AUTOALIGN VH8 3D WHEEL ALIGNER

Available from Interequip

Interequip says the new VH8 3D aligner is made with unique and cutting-edge technology, a market leader for wheel aligners based on years of development of manufacturing since 1998. Interequip says the VH8 is thirty percent less in price than Italian-made 3D aligners, and is reliable, easy to use/maintain, and being mobile, can be moved between alignment bays for busy workshops.

Key features and benefits:

• Automatic camera beam movement allows the technician to fit plates and measure from the base lift position to full height while having the camera beam track the whole procedure. • The mobile base with movable cabinet makes the VH8 an ideal and unique 3D aligner for the busy workshop, able to move within the workshop with precision and accurate work. • Attractive 32-inch LED TV display and DELL

PC, printer. • Autodata licensed AUS full vehicle database free updates for two years. • Advanced Alignment Functions: Wheel

Deviation, Axis Deviation, Vehicle Lifting adjustment, Tire Removing adjustment,

Steering wheel Level adjustment, Body

Dimension, Engine Bracket adjustment, Lock

Toe, Toe Curvature, Zero Toe Camber, Scrub

Radius, Body Height. • Self Centering Three Point Clamps and water and oil prof targets • 6.2 Megapixel cameras for higher accuracy For more details, visit www.interequip.com.au or call 18000EQUIP (1800 037 847).

RACING WHEEL NUTS

Aeroflow has landed a “huge” shipment of wheel nuts, both black and chrome

Aeroflow Performance Products has continued to increase its already 11500-part numbers range, to now include a range of wheel nuts. The Aeroflow Performance range of racing wheel nuts are designed to keep your wheels on your car, but also add some class at the same time. These wheel nuts have been designed and constructed to strict engineering quality standards, explains Aeroflow. Made from Grade 6 steel for structural integrity, then hardened and tempered, the nuts have reportedly reached the depth of hardness needed for their unsurpassed level of safety. They are treated with high corrosion resistance to combat rust in any environment, and then nickel plated in chrome or black for lasting beauty, says Aeroflow. The range of Aeroflow Performance wheel nuts are available in a variety of thread sizes, shank lengths, seat or conical styles in both open and closed to suit all wheels available in today’s market. With convenient packaging of five x pieces per pack, Aeroflow says these wheel nuts are a great option for both retail and trade sales, and wholesale bulk enquiries are also welcomed. The Aeroflow wheel nut range is available now in stock at Rocket Industries. The Rocket Industries team invites you to get in touch to discuss availability and pricing at any time. For more information, contact Rocket Industries on 02 8825 1900 or sales@rocketind.com or visit www.rocketind.com

ROH WHEELS

Available from Tough Gear Trading

Tough Gear Trading (TGT) is a Brisbane based, Australian 4 x 4 accessories company and is also a proud distributor of ROH Wheels. “ROH is Australia’s most respected name for alloy and steel wheels that mark the intersection of style, performance, and innovation,” TGT Administration Manager, Rene Turner, said. “The ROH wheels are built extremely tough, ready to handle the harshest of Australian conditions, all while making your vehicle standout from the crowd with premium styling and highly detailed finishes. “We’re so confident with the strength and durability of these wheels, on offer is a lifetime structural warranty on the entire range of wheels, along with a three-year finish guarantee. “At TGT our mission is to provide automotive solutions and offers to clients through high quality products and service. “We believe that building trusting relationships with business partners including suppliers and clients, is the key contributor to a long term and valuable business.” Trading globally and with more than 25 years of business experience in the auto parts sector, TGT says it provides quality 4x4 accessories and products including, but not limited to, camping gear, leisure products, recovery gear, and security auto applications to mining, fleet, retail markets and so on. After many years of international trade, TGT says local business has taken off tremendously whilst realising the need for quality service and top-notch products in the local market. TGT says the quality of its products and its brand is to mention but one aspect of the company’s service. It states there is also exceptional support and service extended to both the customer and supplier. “We take pride in our reputation of commitment to deliver not only a great product but personal service and quality care,” Rene said. “Visit our new showroom opening at the end of September in Brisbane at 134 South Pine Road, Brendale.” For more information, email enquiry@toughgeartrading.com or contact Kiana at 0435 862 436, or visit www.toughgeartrading.com

BILLET WHEELS

From Superformance

Superformance says it has been Australia’s preferred Performance Superstore for more than forty-four years. It states it has the largest self-serve performance showroom outside of the USA and can provide you with all the parts that are required for your exciting new project. If you are searching for something different, or to stand out from the rest – Superformance says it is known for its commitment to custom parts, engines and car builds. Lots of options are available from building from scratch, to turnkey or even supplying the parts only. The Superformance showroom reportedly features “only the best Billet Wheels on display, including Billet Specialties, Intro and Schott.” “But we don’t stop there! We also deal directly with Budnik and Colorado Customs,” Superformance Sales Manager, Clare Maxwell, said. “We offer wheel measuring services to ensure our customers receive the best fit out of their Custom Billet Wheels - assisting with diameter, overall width, backspace and tyre selection that suits your application.” Superformance explains that it deals directly with the American manufacturers to take the stress out of selecting custom wheels. Other wheel options include American Racing, Detroit Steelies, Foose, US Mags, Wheel Vintiques and others. “We can also source the tyres to suit your new Billet Wheel set. From Master Craft Avenger GT for that nostalgic look to Mickey Thompson, M&H Tyres for the Street or Strip,” Clare said. “Some of the other major brands we supply are BF Goodrich, Coker, Firestone, Michelin, Nankang and Pirelli. “Some of the range we have sourced for customers recently includes a 1953-56 Ford F100 Pickup with 15 x 12 Billet Specialties wheels using a 29/15/15 Tyre and a 1960-61 Ford XK Panel Van on Steel wheels running a Front 185/50/15 and Rear 29/15/15 Tyre. “Or our current Mustang build of a 1965 Mustang Coupe with custom made Schott EXL Series Vulcan Wheels: Front Wheel 19 x 10 with a

AUTOMATE FOR SAFETY AND PRODUCTIVITY

With Corghi’s Artiglio 50 Tyre Changer

Corghi, which says it is renowned worldwide for innovation, quality and precision, is helping workshops embrace the latest in automated technology. It says its feature packed Artiglio 50 Tyre Changer is the most cost-effective way to introduce automation into your workshop. “This centre post, fully lever-less machine is designed to keep your staff safe, increase productivity and reduce the chance of rim damage,” Corghi Australia General Manager, Andrew Cornwell, said. It is ideal for passenger vehicles, SUVs, and light trucks and suitable for wheels up to 30-inches in diameter. The fully automated Artiglio 50 features Corghi’s lever-less technology that completely removes the risk of damaging particularly delicate or demanding rims and comes standard with a built-in tyre lifter for safe, single-person operation. “The Artiglio 50 comes standard with a huge range of power-assisted arms to make light work of even the toughest tyres,” Andrew said. The Artiglio 50 is fully automated for accuracy, repeatability, and productivity. “From low profile to run-flat tyres, this machine has been designed to slash working time on all latest-generation wheels,” Andrew said. The Artiglio 50 is compact and features a singlearm bead breaker unit with a 180° swing arm that ensures there is absolutely no contact with the rim during the mounting process. “As safe work practices in tyre service workshops are coming under increasing scrutiny,” Andrew said. “There has never been a more critical time to invest in tyre lifting equipment. “With its built-in tyre lifter, the Artiglio 50 is a great investment.” Corghi has a range of Tyre Lifters that can be retrofitted to your existing balancers, tyre changes, aligners and hoists. Andrew encourages you to “keep your staff safe and ask us about a great deal on any of our three most popular models.” “We’re committed to helping tyre service workshop owners reduce risk, improve safety and increase productivity,” Andrew said. For more information, visit www.corghi.com.au or call 1800 CORGHI (267444).

285/30/19 Michelin Pilot Super sport Tyre and Rear Wheel 19 x 12 with a 385/30/19 Michelin Pilot Super Sport Tyre. “Whether it is Retaining Leaf Springs, Coil Overs or on Air Bags, we have the right contacts and experience since 1978 to supply Wheel and Tyre Combinations to suit your ride quality and the style of your build.” For more information, call Superformance on 07 3488 7888 or email info@superformance.com.au

TJM PRO SERIES TWIN AIR COMPRESSOR

Equipped with an industry first, patent-pending convection cooling system

If you’re an outback lover and can’t get enough of exploring all this land has to offer, you can’t be without a high-performance air compressor. The best, non-invasive and most cost-effective way to avoid getting bogged is to air down and reinflate later with an air compressor. Why? It’s all about traction. When tackling loose terrain, lowering your tyre pressure elongates your tyres’ footprints, making it easier for your vehicle to gain traction, keep momentum and avoid getting stuck. But to hit the highway you’ll need to pump those tyres back up again. TJM says it has successfully created an industry leading air compressor that can combat the harsh Australian environment and inflate tyres quicker than ever before through a new, revolutionary design. TJM says the Pro Series Twin Air Compressor has been revered for its best-in class performance when tested against its direct competitors. In tests carried out by the TJM R&D team, the TJM Pro Series Twin Air Compressor reportedly outperformed major competitors for the lowest average critical temperature and for the industry’s fastest single tyre and four tyre inflation. TJM says this “monumental” 12V air compressor can inflate four tyres (from 16 to 40 PSI) in five minutes and 21 seconds with “zero chance” of automatic shut-off caused by overheating and allows a consistent and continuous airflow while operating. Further, it states that the compressor’s multifunctional design can power air suspension systems or air powered tools when combined with TJM’s 5L Air Tank. It can even inflate a single tyre from 0 PSI to 40 PSI in two minutes and 30 seconds – a feat TJM says is “seriously impressive.” Now, for 4WD adventurers being able to deflate and reinflate your tyres at a moment’s notice is an all too real luxury. However, with an air compressor comes an exceptionally high heat output, that can result in many air compressors shutting off completely due to overheating – turning the short inflation time into a couple of hours of waiting for the unit to cool down. Fortunately, through constant innovation, testing and perfecting the design, TJM says the TJM Pro Series Twin Air Compressor has solved this pet hate to minimise time spent sorting your tyres out to get you back on the road faster. While air compressors are nothing new to the aftermarket industry, the technology behind the TJM Pro Series Twin Air Compressor certainly is, with TJM explaining that the TJM Pro Series Twin Air Compressor achieves a 100 percent duty cycle to maximise operation time and prevent the air compressor from shutting off. For more information, visit www.tjm.com.au