46 minute read
Commercially viable
from Modern Tire Dealer - August 2015
by EndeavorBusinessMedia-VehicleRepairGroup
Camoplast Solideal has a new name and an all-of-road focus
Camoplast Solideal Inc. has changed its name to Camso. Following a transition period, this name also will become the master brand for its off-the-road tires, tracks and track systems.
Along with the name change, Camso is puting 100% of its efort on 11% of the global tire and track market: the of-the-road market. Its new marketing tagline is “Camso, the road free company.”
Tis focus “creates an in-depth knowledge of the OTR market enabling the company to identify its customers’ very specifc needs and, hence, develop enhanced tires, tracks and track systems for those needs,” according to the Magog, Quebec-based company.
Te new name represents the best of Camoplast and Solideal.
Camso’s sales in this sector went from $95 million to more than $1 billion in seven years. Te company serves four markets: material handling, construction, agriculture and powersports.
Camso designs, manufactures and distributes high-quality tires, wheels tracks and track systems.
It works with major original equipment manufacturers such as Toyota, Caterpillar, John Deere and BRP, as well as several distribution networks. ■
AcuTread earns its frst SmartWay verifcation
AcuTread Alliance Group has received its first SmartWay verification for a mold cure drive retread, the FED 20/32nd Drive Tread. “The precision manufacturing process and operational advantages of mold cure retreading are now available in a SmartWay-verifed drive retread,” says Bob Majewski , technical director. “AcuTread remanufactured retreads are produced under strict processing guidelines by authorized AcuTread licensees.” AcuTread Alliance Group manufactures and distributes tires from locations in Alabama, Arkansas, California, Florida, Illinois, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, Tennessee and Virginia as well as through a network of dealer associates. ACUTREAD ALLIANCE GROUP Quik-Link: (800) 687-1557, ext. 19160 www.mtdquiklink.com/19160
A radial tire for farm implements from BKT
Balkrishna Industries Ltd. (BKT) has introduced a radial tire for farming implements featuring increased fexion (IF) technology. The new RIB 713 tire, size 280/70 R 15, is designed to reduce soil compaction and withstand punctures. BKT says it developed the RIB 713 with IF technology in response to the needs of modern agriculture for reduced soil compaction. IF technology allows for heavier load carrying capacity at the same infation pressures of a standard, samesized tire. This feature provides uniform weight distribution and excellent fotation properties. The tire’s steel belting increases stubble and penetration resistance. In addition, the “D” speed rating ensures that the RIB 713 tire runs up to 40 mph on the road for quick travel from one piece of farm land to another. BALKRISHNA INDUSTRIES LTD. Quik-Link: (800) 687-1557, ext. 19161 www.mtdquiklink.com/19161
A new GT Radial long haul drive tire
North American fleets and owner operators have a new long haul drive tire option, the GT Radial GDL617FS. Manufacturer Giti Tire Group says the tire offers excellent traction, irregular wear resistance and fuel effciency for long haul usage. It features a wider tread and unique compound design for higher mileage. The tire’s central platform and supplementary groove help prevent stone retention. A deeper transversal and dimensional zigzag siping provide good traction and anti-irregular wear. It’s available in the popular 11R22.5, 295/75R22.5, 11R24.5 and 285/75R24.5 sizes, and is backed by a 72-month limited warranty and limited two-retread casing warranty. GITI TIRE (USA) LTD. Quik-Link: (800) 687-1557, ext. 19162 www.mtdquiklink.com/19162
Improvements in Trelleborg forestry tires
The Trelleborg Wheel Systems division of Trelleborg AB has improved the performance of its forestry tires by borrowing innovations from its agricultural tires. The Twin Forestry tires series is available worldwide and includes the company’s ProgressiveTraction and inter-lug terraces technologies. They are self-cleaning, track-compatible tires with superior traction for tough forestry applications. The Twin Forestry tire line consists of the T440 (pictured) and T480, and is complemented by the existing skidder range, T418. The frst size offered is the 710/45-26.5, for both the T440 and T480, and more sizes are in the works. The T440 is ideal for clay, mud, ice and snow and provides a better grip and self-cleaning with less impact on the forest foor. The T480 features a large contact area with low ground pressure, as well as a unique tread design for effective self-cleaning and added pulling power. TRELLEBORG WHEEL SYSTEMS AMERICAS INC. Quik-Link: (800) 687-1557, ext. 19163 www.mtdquiklink.com/19163
Supercar sales boost performance rubber
While defnitions vary, one thing is clear: HP and UHP tires are growing in popularity in Europe
Over the past few years I have noticed for a series of benefts including a high level of that the ultra-high and high perforperformance with exceptional grip and overall mance tire markets have become insports handling. creasingly popular throughout Europe which, However, at the same time there are a lot of when coupled with the fact that most European subtleties and diferent priorities to consider as markets (in particular Italy and Spain) import some consumers expect an HP tire to allow them at least 30% of their tires for sale, leads to a to push their high-powered sports saloon to the highly competitive sector for tire manufaclimits on a track but also remain road legal. In turers that shows no sign of slowing down general, it seems that right from hot hatches to in the future. By John Stone road cruising SUVs and 4x4s, drivers have their However, in some ways it is very difcult own interpretation of what high performance to defne the exact import fgures of high performance really means. tires because to do this you have to take into account In my opinion, although still relatively confusing, the varying degree of opinion by tire manufacturers and what all this means is that the high performance market wholesalers/distributors as to what high performance is incredibly diverse and whether for the OE or replaceactually means. ment market, tire sizes can range from 15 up to 23 inches For example, one theory is that high performance (HP) plus! Although in terms of European sales 18 and 19 means tires with a rim diameter of 18 inches or higher inch remain the most popular sizes, but it seems that coupled with its speed rating while others believe HP larger tires in terms of rim size and width also are steadily starts at 17 inch diameters. Another comment is that tires growing in popularity. need to provide high speed performance with superior When it comes to the most popular HP tire sizes in grip and a sporty look to be classifed as HP. Tere is even Europe, last year’s statistics indicate that while the largest a belief that the high performance tire market constitutes selling tire in 2014 was the 225/40 R18 92Y the fastest performance at speed across small and mid-range vehicles selling tire was the 215/50 R17 95W. It is also interesting starting at 15-inch diameters. Confusing? You bet it is! to note that the fastest growing high performance size in So to try and get some clarity I contacted a technical terms of the broader defnition of the HP segment was expert at one of Europe’s leading tire producers who the 195/55 R15. Finally, the fastest growing diameter was 21 inches based on year-on-year sales. To be honest it is extremely difcult to get a completely accurate assessment of what the high performance market sector actually means across Europe as there are so many opinions within the industry. What I can be sure of is that over the past couple of years, all countries within the European zone are importing and selling an increasing amount of extremely high powered supercars, and when you combine this fact with an equally rising increase in high performing saloon vehicles, from two-seater sports cars through the top-of-the-range of-road marques, then it becomes obvious that the demand for larger and more high speed tires will be required in the marketplace in the not too distant future. At the moment the largest most popular HP tire is 23 inches, but for how long? Taking everything into Morgan sets the pace when it comes to attractive looking, consideration as 4x4 vehicles get even larger and more sporty models ftted with ultra-high performance tires. powerful, (especially in Germany where the famous explained that the term “high performance” is really made Autobahns impose no top speed limit), I confdently up of a collection of sub-markets which is much greater believe it is only a mater of time before a manufacturer now than it was in the 1980s when high performance tires introduces a 26- to 27-inch high performance tire. Te frst started being fted to vehicles. Te key element in future looks interesting for the performance car and tire this issue is the consumer (driver) who again is looking industries. ■
I worked for a legend
Parnelli Jones partnered with winners, and won
Iworked for Parnelli Jones for 20-plus years in performance was expected. Expectation levels were a variety of capacities. In many ways, Jones is high as a result of his passion for winning, which just an ordinary guy; in other ways, he’s quite was demonstrated by his racing achievements, and extraordinary. (For the younger readers who also as a result of the individuals Jones partnered might not know, Jones is an iconic American with and placed faith in to oversee and run the race car driver and business owner. He owned company. Tis winning atitude permeated all a race tire division, a wholesale tire and wheel divisions of the company: corporate, wholesale, division and a retail tire and service network. He’s retail, and race tire. probably most famous for his accomplishments When you meet Jones, you immediately realize on the race track. He won races in many types By Wayne Williams he’s just an ordinary guy with competitive traits of vehicles and in 1962 at the Indianapolis 500, and great driving skills. He’s very easy to talk he was the frst driver to qualify for the pole position at with, and as a result, you end up feeling drawn to him. over 150 mph. In 1963 he won the race as a driver, and as He’s straightforward and likable. an owner he won back-to-back races in 1970-1971 with What I and others experienced was that the combination driver Al Unser Sr.) of his personality and leadership style was transformational. Many of us who worked for Jones were ordinary Placing faith employees; however, the leadership style demonstrated was
I caught up with Jones during a recent lunch. He told me, transformational, which allowed us to grow. Te company “You can’t grow without placing faith in others.” He also was an early innovator and recognized leader in custom commented, “I couldn’t do anything without my partners.” wheel development and high performance tires. Jones,
As his racing career expanded, so did his business with a transformational leadership style and partners who opportunities. Jones shared a key insight with me years shared his commitment to winning, helped pioneer and ago when he said, “Te key to winning in racing is focus.” shape the industry.
He could not aford to divide his atention between A strong characteristic of the Leader-Member Exchange racing and running retail stores; therefore, he partnered leadership style is that it encourages stronger group members with other winners. as individuals and as collective teams to have high-quality
One leadership theory is the Leader-Member Exchange exchanges with leadership that supports action, progress, Teory. Te interaction here is viewed as a fair exchange collective unity and positive results. whereby the leader provides certain benefts beyond a Personality and leadership style played a big part in paycheck, such as guids guidthe success of Parnelli Jones during the early years and positioned the company for growth in all divisions. I recognize now that structure and style permited the company to grow from a race tire division to a retail network of more than 50 locations and multiple warehouses. I see companies every day that are transactional based vs. transformational. In my mind, it’s clearly a result of leadership choices. Starbucks is a transformational company as a result of transformational thinking and leadership. Tink about it; they transformed a cup of cofee... a cup of cofee! Te opportunities to be transformational in our industry abound. A consumer can buy a tire almost anywhere. Tey can even buy a tire on their cell phone. However, where is the best transformational place in your town for a customer to have a tire installed and mounted and ance, advice and support, and in exchange, ance, advice and support and i h balanced and maintained and serviced and repaired and followers reciprocate by giving the leader respect, cooperaf ll infated and aligned, and have a free cup of great cofee tion, commitment to the task, and good performance. In from a customer/centric team while they are waiting? other words, the relationship and interaction between Winners win! Are you winning? ■ leaders and followers is more transformational than merely transactional. Wayne Williams is president of ExSell Marketing Inc., a
Tis was typical of the relationships at Parnelli Jones, the “counter intelligence” frm based in La Habra, Calif. He can company, as a result of Jones, the man. Winning and great be reached at exsellmkting@gmail.com.
Focus on industry Pro-business and p
Tat’s what the Latin American & Caribbean Tyre
By Bob Ulrich
Panama’s importance to global commerce cannot be overstated. It is a free-trade zone to Central and South America, with billions of dollars of products traveling through the Panama Canal every year.
Tat is why Gus Lima calls his Latin American & Caribbean Tyre Expo in Panama a “show and sell” event for suppliers and distributors.
Lima, CEO of Latin Expo Group LLC, says the sixth annual exposition lived up to his expectations. Te show featured 210 exhibitors from around the world; Chinese tire companies dominated the two foors of booth space.
“Tis show’s purpose is to bring together manufacturers and distributors from all over the world into the backyard of the Latin American market,” says Lima. “Tey can meet many tire dealers in Panama who, due to tightening U.S. travel regulations, are not able to get a visa to go to the United States to visit the shows. And Panama has been a business hub for Latin America for the last 40 or 50 years.”
Top: “I’m worried TBR will be the next target for anti-dumping,” says Li Haojie, director, Qingdao Longmax Tyre Co. Ltd. Right: The 2400R35 Triangle TB 526S OTR tire towers over fouryear-old Tomaz Eduardo.
Tornel is a popular Latin American brand manufactured in Mexico by an Indian company. It also is sold in the U.S.
“Any show’s success depends on atracting qualifed visitors, not just people roaming around trying to pick up a free pen or a cap.
“We don’t let anybody in the door who is not veted as a tire dealer or people who want to get into the tire business. And we don’t charge anybody to come into the show.
Lima says the Latin American & Caribbean Tyre Expo and the inaugural North American Tire & Retread Expo, held earlier this year in New Orleans, are separate entities.
“Tey are for diferent audiences. Te audience at the North American Expo is strictly what the title says; that show is geared to the tire business and the tire retreading business for Canadian, U.S. and, hopefully, some Mexican dealers. It has a more intense focus on the North American retread business because there is no show for retreaders to go to in North America since the old Louisville show closed.
“Tis show is about the tire business and anything related to the tire business. Manufacturing equipment, retreading, repairing — anything that has to do with tires, this is it.”
Changes in China David Shaw, head of research for Tire Industry Research and author of “China’s Tire Industry, 2015-2018,” led of the exposition’s series of conferences. He talked about “China’s tire industry and its place in the world of tires.” Tere are more than 400 tire manufacturers in China producing roughly half of the tires in the world, according to Shaw. “China is an incredibly competitive market,” he said. “Price is a major issue in China. Prices are falling like stones because there are a lot of producers. If the prices are falling (so rapidly), you can imagine what those companies will do. Tey’ll try to export.
Shaw said the vast majority of Chinese manufacturers “have no idea about marketing whatsoever.” As a result, they sell based on price, “and that is a major problem around the world.”
Domestically, there is almost no brand awareness in China. “Chinese consumers don’t know what a good or bad brand is,” he said. “Tey don’t really know the diference because there’s no information about that. Te competition is all about price in that country. Tey’re very used to competing on price, and cuting the cost of production. Tat’s just the way they do business.”
Over the next two to fve years, legislation will lead to a lot of changes in China’s tire industry, he said.
China’s leading players make up close to one-third of the total number of manufacturers. “Te aim is to drive consolidation. (Chinese leaders) are aware this fragmentation of the business is a signifcant problem not only for China, but also for the reputation of Chinese tires abroad.
“Tey’re trying to drive consolidation, but there aren’t too many mechanisms within China to allow that consolidation to happen,” said Shaw.
“Although a lot of people say there will be consolidation, and it will start soon in 2015, I’m not totally convinced that’s going to happen in a big way, but we shall see.” ■
Mateer to the rescue
Specialty Tires of America almost didn’t make it to 100 years
By Bob Ulrich
McCreary Tire & Rubber Co. found itself at a crossroads in the early 1980s. Te tire company founded by Harry McCreary in 1915 was in dire straits fnancially afer more than 60 years of success. Bankruptcy was perhaps the most logical course of action.
McCreary’s grandson, also named Harry, chose to go in another direction. On April Fools’ Day in 1982, he named an ex-Marine president in the hopes of saving his family’s legacy. Despite a lack of support from the local union and the community at large, it worked.
New President Don Mateer Jr. used his military background and experience as the company’s former vice president of manufacturing to give McCreary Tire new life. He cut costs,
Plenty of products STA focuses on bias-ply tires
Specialty Tires of America Inc. (STA) produces multiple product lines and brands at its two tire manufacturing plants. The vast majority are bias-ply tires.
• Small off-the road: American Contractor, American
Carrier, Big Jake, American Logger. • Industrial and mining: Specialty Tires of America,
American XD Traxion, Big Jake. • Farm: American Farmer (both replacement and original equipment). • Racing: American Racer.
The company also manufactures military, light truck (including a radial private brand), medium/heavy truck, antique (private brand only) and aircraft tires.
Top: The Indiana, Pa., tire plant has been in operation since May 1915. It supplied Jeep tires to the military during World War II. Left: Ricky Keith operates the presses. A second tire plant was built in Unicoi, Tenn., in 1996.
including his own salary. He eliminated low-margin tire production at the company’s Indiana, Pa., tire plant, and moved industrial product and curing bladder production to Piney Flats, Tenn.
In order to use fewer raw materials, he began to manufacture race tires and transition away from medium truck tires.
Some people lef, but not many, according to Elaine Anderson, who has been with the company in one capacity or another for 40 years. “It was black and white, life or death. We went in every day thinking the doors would be locked and the banks would take over.”
Te privately-held company not only survived but thrived. By 1992, with the company again on a profitable path, a
In 1995, STA produced 1 million tires for the frst time. The company’s two tire plants can manufacture from 5-pound go-kart tires to 1,760-pound OTR tires.
Harry McCreary, third from left, and Donald Mateer Jr., third from right, posed with employees in 1988. Mateer, who died in 2002, was named Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year in 1994.
name change was in order. McCreary Tire & Rubber Co. became Specialty Tires of & R bb C b America Inc. (STA), which beter ft what the company was, and remains, all about.
Mateer III is one of 26 key individuals who oversee the parent company, Polymer Enterprises Inc., and its four subsidiaries. Tey are working on succession planning so STA survives for another 100 years. ■
‘We never left home’ Mateer III emphasized the ‘A’ in STA in 2012
On April 30, 2012, CEO Don Mateer III delivered a shareholders’ address that encapsulated what Specialty Tires of America Inc. (STA) and its parent company, Polymer Enterprises Inc., are all about. And it touched on the one thing unchanged in STA’s now 100-year history. “Regarding the state of manufacturing in the U.S., unquestionably there have been devastating domestic manufacturing job losses in recent years, including the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, where manufacturing employment lost 35% of its jobs over the past decade,” said Mateer.
“However, a recent report commented on companies that had previously moved production outside of the U.S., are now expanding in the U.S., and are bringing jobs back from overseas. Rising foreign-labor costs in emerging-market countries, higher shipping costs, and the need to shorten delivery times due to leaner inventories have made outsourcing less desirable.
“All I can say is we never left home, and for nearly a century have honored a commitment to American-made products, proudly manufactured by Americans. Polymer Enterprises currently provides jobs for nearly 800 employees in Pennsylvania and Tennessee. To them, ‘Made in the USA’ is more than a shared spirit of patriotism. It represents their livelihood, and Don Mateer III, center, is fanked by the means to be able to provide for strip winding technologists Rick Spentheir families.” cer, left, and Jim McGeary.
Michelin replaces the LTX M/S2
Te Defender LTX is a carbon copy of the No. 1 LT tire, built with the stronger EverTread compound
By Joy Kopcha hauling anything at all. But Peters says there’s a common
The newest tire in Michelin North refrain among truck owners America Inc.’s feet isn’t designed to who do put their vehicles to be an original equipment star. But the test. “No mater what we that’s not to say the tire manufacturer isn’t put on my truck it’s not going expecting big things from the Defender LTX to get over 30,000 miles.” M/S. Michelin believes the Defender LTX is Michelin is marketing the destined to become its top selling light truck Defender LTX as the answer tire — in part because it’s replacing the comto that complaint with two pany’s current No. 1 LT tire. key words: “Stronger. Longer.”
Te Defender LTX is a light truck product Peters says the company’s that comes from melding the long-lasting traits test data shows the new comof Michelin’s successful three-year-old Defender For consumers shopping for all-season tires pound alone extends this tire’s passenger line with its most popular light truck with maximum tread life, Michelin’s lineup life by 10% compared to the tire, the LTX M/S2. Using the tread patern now includes the Defender LTX M/S, with LTX M/S2. and depth of the LTX M/S2, amping it up ftments for 1/2- and 3/4-ton pickups, plus Te Defender LTX’s ftwith EverTread compounding, and ensuring crossovers and SUVs. ment reach is expansive, and the long-lasting wear of the Defender line, the new Defender Michelin says it covers 77% of the market — up from the LTX ofers the best of all worlds. 63% for the LTX M/S2, which is being phased out. With 71 “We were commited to making improvements without sizes — 46 P-metric and 25 LT — the tire will ft “a huge range compromise or sacrifces,” says Stephen Peters, Michelin’s of vehicles,” Peters says. light truck brand category manager. And like its passenger tire namesake, the Defender LTX
“Tere’s such a loyal following out there for the LTX M/ focuses on three traits consumers demand: durable tread life, S2. We want to make it beter, but not so unfamiliar to folks all-season confdence and fuel efciency. that it causes some heartburn,” Peters says. Te P-metric sizes, typically for 1/2-ton trucks and SUVs,
Tat’s why the Defender LTX looks like and is built to match come with the same 70,000-mile warranty as the predecessor, its predecessor. Te EverTread compounding is “the toughest and Peters says, “We do think that the tire will last longer.” Te compound that we “huge” spectrum of ftments for this tire is one of Michelin’s have available” in widest oferings, and the company knows “there will be plenty the United States, of consumers who get plenty more miles than that.” and it’s designed Te LT sizes carry a 50,000-mile warranty, and that’s less to handle the evercoverage than the current LTX M/S2 ofers. But Peters says the increasing torque EverTread compound lasts longer than the compound in the demands of today’s LTX M/S2. He’s yet to have a dealer tell him the 50,000-mile trucks. From 2009 promise is a bad deal. to 2011 Michelin “All competitors are at 50,000 miles. Te warranty is a says the average selling tool, but not a real world thing,” Peters says. “Te goal torque of 3/4-ton is to take the Defender promise and extend it to the LT line.” trucks increased Michelin says its EverTread technology increases the 23%. strength without sacrifcing performance. In P-metric sizes “It’s amazing to the Defender LTX stands up beter on gravel to chip and tear me that vehicles, say resistance compared to the LTX M/S2, while tread life, wet a F-150, can pull as traction, snow traction and rolling resistance are unchanged. much as a heavyWith the LT sizes, tread life and chip and tear resistance both duty truck 15 years are improved, while wet traction, snow traction and rolling ago,” Peters says. resistance remain unchanged. Stephen Peters says the Defender LTX is designed to be stronger for Tat doesn’t mean Rollout of the frst 45 sizes of the Defender LTX began Aug. tougher conditions. The tire’s top every truck owner 1 and will continue through November in the United States. prospects are contractors and feets. is hauling more, or Te next 26 sizes are coming in June 2016. ■
Focus on industry Tire Pros University
A marketing lesson: Know when to play your trump card
By Joy Kopcha
Tire Pros is taking its marketing training on the road, meeting with its network of independent tire dealers for eight hours of discussion and data sharing during its Tire Pros University (TPU) summer classes.
Tire Pros says the assistance of its full-service marketing department is the most popular service it ofers to its members. Dealers ofen highlight marketing as a particularly troubling and confusing part of their businesses.
In a TPU registration survey, 36% of the respondents said they understand the importance of marketing and advertising, but are not sure their promotional eforts are working.
Mike Fox says fewer consumers are walking in the door and relying solely on a dealer’s expertise when buying tires. With that in mind, marketing your business is critical.
Tat leaves plenty of room for improvement and education with eforts like the latest round of TPU classes: “Revenuegenerating and impactful marketing concepts.” Two teams of presenters are covering the country during 19 TPU meetings. Tire Pros hosted its eighth session in Akron, Ohio, and allowed Modern Tire Dealer an exclusive seat in the classroom.
Mike Fox, an adjunct professor at Wake Forest University’s School of Business, and Bob Bitner, director of store operations for Tire Pros, are leading the classes in the eastern half of the U.S., including the one in Akron. Te West Coast team is Wayne Williams, MTD’s Counter Intelligence columnist and president of ExSell Marketing Inc., and Wes Stephenson, vice president of operations for Tire Pros.
Tire Pros says TPU is designed to help dealers focus on how to increase the return on their investments in marketing and public relations, and to learn about the best practices of other dealers around the country.
Another huge perk clearly comes from the conversation between dealers siting in the classroom.
Eleven dealers from Pennsylvania, Ohio and West Virginia brought difering degrees of experience to Akron. Jim Federico, the second generation owner of Federico Tire & Service Inc. in Painesville, Ohio, joined Tire Pros this year, while John Skerbetz of Ferguson Tire Pros in Weirton, W.V., joked he’s been in the industry since he was in the second grade. No mater how long the dealers have been in business, they all agreed they’re facing pressure from an increase in competition from online tire sellers.
Tat prompted Fox to ask the group how many of them make it known they’ll install tires bought online. Only a few hands went up. “Is that a business opportunity?” Fox asked. “Buy it wherever, install it here.” Doug Novosel, an owner of Best Buy Tire Pros Automotive & Service LLC in Cleveland, Ohio, says it’s an opportunity. “It gets the car in the door,” he says, and presents him an opportunity to sell other needed services. Skerbetz from West Virginia was of the opposite viewpoint. “We were always combative,” he says, thinking his business would only get the crumbs from what could have been a more proftable deal. But by the end of the two-day session, Skerbetz was changing his tune, and thinking that someone is going to install those tires for those consumers, so it might as well be Ferguson Tire. “I think I’ll try not to run them of, and try to take some of their money,” Skerbetz says. Patrick Stuhldreher, general manager of Tire Source’s fve locations in Akron and Canton, Ohio, says the shops will install those tires, but employees also make a point of showing that customer an invoice of what those tires would have cost if they were purchased from Tire Source, and what added services the purchase would have included.
“Everybody’s got their opinion about whether buying tires online is good or evil,” Bitner says. “But every single one of us are online consumers. We’ve all bought something online, so we’re all dancing with the devil at some point. We’ve just got to understand this is the way marketing is headed and retail is going along with it.”
Te growth of online sales has DD Coley wondering,” Are we missing out?” She’s a second generation owner, with her brothers, of Consumer Tire Inc. in Mentor, Ohio. Coley says the family business does install tires bought online, but not enough to match the growth in those sales in recent years.
“No mater how much people buy tires online, you’ve got to have somebody to install them,” Bitner says. “You’ve got that trump card in your favor.” ■
Subaru Legacy and Outback 2005-2013
Use a new grommet when reusing the transmitter
SUBJECT VEHICLE: 2005 – 2013 Subaru Legacy and Outback. RELEARN PROCEDURE? Yes. SPECIAL TOOLS NEEDED? Yes, the Subaru Select Monitor and Transmiter Registration Tool (TPM-00012 or Kent-Moore Part No. FJ45295).
The tire pressure monitor system (TPMS) on the 2005 – 2013 Subaru Legacy and Outback checks the tire pressures of all four road wheels when the vehicle is driven at speeds above 25 mph (40 km/h), and warns in the event of a loss of pressure by means of a low tire pressure warning light.
A sensor installed in each wheel will indicate when tire pressure is severely low. Te TPMS will activate only when the vehicle is driven.
CAUTION: Te airbag system wiring harness is routed near the TPMS control module. All air bag system wiring harnesses are colored yellow. Do not use electrical test equipment on these circuits. Be careful not to damage the airbag system wiring harness when servicing the TPMS control module.
Under the following conditions, the system may not function properly: • If tire pressures are incorrect. • If tires are damaged or punctured. • Air pressure sensor malfunction. • Air pressure sensor is out of batery power. • Tire pressure monitoring control module is faulty. • Defective vehicle harness. • Defective combination meter. • Defective air pressure sensor. • Defective tire pressure monitoring control module. • If batery fuid, gravity and voltage are out of specifcation (12 volts or more at specifc gravity of 1.260 or more). • Defective combination meter.
Tire pressure monitor warning light
When the low tire pressure warning light illuminates, immediately check air pressure of all tires and adjust to the specifed pressure. Afer adjusting air pressure, drive the vehicle at 25 mph (40 km/h) or more to start TPMS re-checking of the tire infation pressures. Te warning light should turn of in a few minutes. If the warning light is still on afer adjusting tire pressure, check for a damaged tire and repair as necessary. If the warning light blinks 25 times and then illuminates, and there is not a tire without a tire pressure sensor installed, there is a malfunction in the TPMS. See the appropriate manufacturer service information.
Reset procedures
NOTE: When a tire pressure sensor or TPMS control module is replaced, or when wheels are changed, the tire pressure sensor IDs must be registered. NOTE: If tires were rotated, the performance and function of the TPMS is not afected. However, tire positions are not displayed in the Subaru Select Monitor correctly.
When the low tire pressure warning light illuminates, immediately check air pressure of all tires and adjust to the specifed pressure. Afer adjusting air pressure, drive the vehicle at 25 mph (40 km/h) or more to start the TPMS re-checking of the tire infation pressures. Te warning light should turn of in a few minutes.
Tire pressure sensor registration
NOTE: In the following procedure, the Subaru Select Monitor and Transmiter Registration Tool (TPM-00012 or Kent-Moore Part No. FJ45295) must be used.
NOTE: If the ignition switch and power supply of the Subaru Select Monitor are turned of or the registration procedure is not performed within fve minutes, the registration mode is cancelled.
NOTE: If the tires were rotated, the performance and function of the TPMS is not afected. However, tire positions are not displayed in the Subaru Select Monitor correctly. Register transmiter IDs afer rotation if the correct display of tire sensor positions is required.
NOTE: If registration procedure is not successful afer two atempts, replace the TPMS control module. 1) Set the tire pressure of all wheels to specifcation. 2) Connect the Subaru Select Monitor. 3) On the “MAIN MENU” screen, select “EACH SYSTEM CHECK” and press the YES (or OK) key. 4) On the “SYSTEM SELECTION MENU” screen, select “TIRE PRESSURE MONITORING” and press the YES (or OK) key. 5) Press the YES (or OK) key after “TIRE PRESSURE MONITORING” is displayed. 6) On the “TIRE PRESSURE MONITOR DIAGNOSIS” screen, select “TRNSMITER ID REGIST CONFIRM” and press the YES (or OK) key. 7) When “ID REGISTRTION MODE EXECUTE, REGISTERED ID IS DELETED PROCEED?” is displayed, press the YES (or OK) key. 8) Using the Transmiter Registration Tool (TPM-00012 or Kent-Moore Part No. FJ45295), contact the sidewall near the air valve of the front lef tire and press the switch to send the transmiter ID to the TPMS control module (at this time, the tire pressure warning light blinks to start the registration procedure). Register the tire pressure sensors, while noting the following: • Register transmiters in the following order: lef front, right front, right rear, and then lef rear. • Te transmiter registration tool should be in contact with the sidewall near the transmiter. • Afer registration for each tire completes, the hazard light
5) On the “TIRE PRESSURE MONITOR DIAGNOSIS” screen, select “TRNSMITER ID REGIST CONFIRM” and press the YES (or OK) key. 6) Select “TRNSMITER ID DATA MONITOR.” and press the YES (or OK) key to display transmiter IDs.
Demounting/mounting procedures
CAUTION: The tire should be demounted from the wheel using the tire changer manufacturer’s instructions. Use the following information to avoid damage during the demounting/ mounting procedures.
NOTE: It may not be possible to install tire pressure sensors on some types of wheels. Use wheels that have the same part number as the standard equipment wheels.
NOTE: If the tires were rotated, the performance and function of the TPMS is not afected. However, tire positions are not displayed in the Subaru Select Monitor correctly.
NOTE: If adjustment of tire pressure is performed indoors in winter, the diference between indoor and outdoor temperature is large. When the vehicle is out, tire pressure will go down and the tire pressure warning light might operate. To avoid this situation, adjustment of tire pressure needs to be slightly high considering the diference between indoor and outdoor temperature (about 1 psi (7 kPa) for every 10 degrees Fahrenheit (5.6 degrees Celsius) diference.
Tire pressure sensor
CAUTION: Te use of tire sealants is strictly prohibited for vehicles equipped with TPMS. Tire sealants can clog tire pressure sensors.
Removal and Installation (2005-08):
NOTE: For all years, register tire pressure sensor IDs once the wheels have been mounted. See reset procedures.
Always use a new Torx screw and valve when reusing the transmiter body. ■
Information for this column comes fom Mitchell 1’s “Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems Guide” for domestic and import vehicles. Headquartered in Poway, Calif., Mitchell 1 has provided quality repair information solutions to the automotive industry for more than 80 years.
For more information, visit website www.mitchell1.com.
For archived TPMS articles, visit website www.moderntiredealer.com.
Figure 3: Positioning the tire changer boom.
Figure 4: Identifying the wheel, transmitter, screw and valve.
Figure 5: Identifying the transmitter and setting the tire changer boom in position.
TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS
Component Ft.-lbs. (N.m) Wheel nut (aluminum wheels) 74 (100) Wheel nut (steel wheels) 89 (120)
Component Tire pressure sensor nut (2005-08)
Component Torx screw (2009 and later) In.-lbs.(N.m) 66 (7.5)
Ft.-lbs. (N.m) 12.4 (1.4)
Hennessy introduces adjustable pin plates
Hennessy Industries Inc. says its new Coats brand Adjustable Pin Plates provide the most consistent method for accurately mounting tire and wheel assemblies to a balancer. These precision mounting adapters provide the accuracy required to achieve a performance balance. The adjustable design provides fast and easy centering for most tire and wheel assemblies. Additionally, the lug clamping and centering of the tire and wheel assembly helps prevent damage to alloy wheels. HENNESSY INDUSTRIES INC. Quik-Link: (800) 687-1557, ext. 19170 www.mtdquiklink.com/19170
Schrader unveils single-SKU TPMS sensor
Schrader International Inc. has introduced a single-SKU, fully programmable, OE-replacement TPMS sensor that covers a vast majority of TPMS-ftted vehicles in North America. With a programming speed of about 10 seconds, the new EZ-sensor boosts the speed and accuracy of TPMS service and repair. Schrader says this single SKU covers more than 100 million TPMS-equipped vehicles on the road and is designed to be infnitely scalable with additional coverage and without adding new SKUs. EZ-sensor will support evolving OE technologies, such as wireless auto-location, and new consumer-oriented features such as pressure-by-position displays. SCHRADER INTERNATIONAL INC. Quik-Link: (800) 687-1557, ext. 19171 www.mtdquiklink.com/19171
Plasteel wheel weights are easy to install
Plasteel premium wheel weights from Plombco Inc. are an innovative product made of steel with a plastic shell. Among other advantages, Plasteel premium wheel weights are easy to install, have exceptional corrosion resistance, look great and don’t scratch the wheel, according to the company. Learn more, request a free sample, and watch video clips demonstrating the features of Plasteel wheel weights at www.plasteelwheelweights.com. PLOMBCO INC. Quik-Link: (800) 687-1557, ext. 19172 www.mtdquiklink.com/19172
New tabletop tire changers from Hunter
Hunter Engineering Co. has introduced a new generation of TCX57 tabletop tire changers. The company says the new tabletop tire changers include several enhanced features for tremendous power and control. Building on the TCX575 family, the TCX57 and TCX56 add the most powerful side shovel bead breaker and feature a large tabletop with one-touch diameter adjustments, according to Hunter Engineering. The TCX57 also has an enhanced second press arm that is faster and easier to use. The TCX56 is a conventional head version of the leverless TCX57. HUNTER ENGINEERING CO. Quik-Link: (800) 687-1557, ext. 19173 www.mtdquiklink.com/19173
Robert Bosch LLC offers a full range of engine management sensors that monitor the systems on today’s vehicles that control engine performance, fuel economy, vehicle emissions and more. The Bosch engine management sensor program includes: mass air fow, manifold absolute pressure, turbo pressure, crankshaft position, camshaft position, knock and various temperature sensors for domestic, Asian and European applications. ROBERT BOSCH LLC Quik-Link: (800) 687-1557, ext. 19174 www.mtdquiklink.com/19174
Bartec releases TPMS software update
Bartec USA LLC’s latest software update for its TPMS tools enables users to adjust TPMS placard values and program the new EZ-sensor from Schrader International Inc. Release 53 (and current sub-release 53.1) can be downloaded to a technician’s Bartec TPMS tool. Features are specific to each Bartec tool (ranging from the Tech400Pro to the Tech300SD) and are defned in the software release bulletins found by clicking the Tech Support icon in TPMS Desktop. The company says Bartec tools are the frst to offer this programming capability, and by simply updating the tool, technicians can begin using this programmable solution. BARTEC USA LLC Quik-Link: (800) 687-1557, ext. 19175 www.mtdquiklink.com/19175
Cooper adds premium light truck tire
Cooper Tire & Rubber Co. is adding a premium light truck tire to its Discoverer line. The Discoverer STT PRO is replacing the Discoverer STT. The new tire features three-ply construction and a distinctive tread design. Created to deliver superior grip, traction, handling and performance in all off-road conditions, Cooper says the Discoverer STT PRO doesn’t give up on-road capabilities either. With silica in its tread compound, the tread is long-lasting and offers enhanced wet traction in all wet-weather conditions. Cut-and-chip additives help reduce damage to the tread by rocks and other debris. The Discoverer STT PRO is launching with 41 sizes, Q and R speed ratings and C, D and E load ranges. COOPER TIRE & RUBBER CO. Quik-Link: (800) 687-1557, ext. 19176 www.mtdquiklink.com/19176
Centric Parts releases frst chassis catalog
Centric Parts, a North American manufacturer and supplier of aftermarket brake and chassis components and systems, has released its frst chassis component catalog, the 2015 Chassis Catalog (1990-2015). The company says the new catalog has detailed listings for the complete range of Centric premium steering and suspension components including control arms, ball joints, tie rod ends, stabilizer links, sway bar links, pitman and idler arms, bushings and more for import and domestic vehicles from model years 1990-2015. CENTRIC PARTS Quik-Link: (800) 687-1557, ext. 19177 www.mtdquiklink.com/19177
Michelin expands Premier line
Michelin North America Inc. has launched the next member of the Premier family, the Premier LTX. The company says the new Premier LTX fitments signifcantly expand its innovative tread technology, EverGrip, to include light trucks, SUVs and crossovers. Available in 47 sizes ranging from 16-inch to 22-inch diameter rim sizes, the Michelin Premier LTX provides exceptional levels of safety even as tires wear down, making them safe when new and safe when worn, according to the company. MICHELIN NORTH AMERICA INC. Quik-Link: (800) 687-1557, ext. 19178 www.mtdquiklink.com/19178
Ken-Tool: 8 sizes in one wrench
Ken-Tool Corp. has unveiled a patented wrench in SAE and metric versions that provides eight of the most popular wrench sizes in one tool. The company says its new 8-in-1 Wrench delivers strength, versatility and convenience in a 7-1/2 in. (19 cm), 12 oz. (0.3 kg) slim profle tool. The 8-in-1 Wrench is fabricated from cold-forged, highstrength vanadium steel alloy. At the heart of the wrench is the “Slide-Twist-Slide” design to quickly change wrench sizes. To change the size, the user slides the carrier to the center, twists it 180 degrees and slides back to lock in place. KEN-TOOL CORP. Quik-Link: (800) 687-1557, ext. 19179 www.mtdquiklink.com/19179
Kumho releases Road Venture AT51
Kumho Tire Co. Inc. has introduced the all-terrain, severe snow-certified Road Venture AT51 to the U.S. and Canadian markets. Kumho says the Road Venture AT51 is designed for ultimate control on and off the pavement. Kumho’s most aggressive styled tire, the Road Venture AT51 features enhanced tread blocks that bite on ice and frmly grip even the most rugged terrain. The Road Venture AT51 has earned the three-peak mountain snowfake symbol. KUMHO TIRE CO. INC. Quik-Link: (800) 687-1557, ext. 19180 www.mtdquiklink.com/19180
New stainless steel roller cabinet
Beta Tools of Italy has introduced a seven-drawer, stainless steel roller cabinet. The company says its new C04 INOX-7 stainless steel cabinet is perfect for anyone concerned about corrosion or who likes the look of stainless steel instead of traditional painted tool boxes. Seven drawers are 16 inches long by 22 inches wide, the top six drawers are 3.25 inches deep; and the bottom drawer is 6.5 inches deep. All drawers have ball bearing slides. BETA TOOLS OF ITALY Quik-Link: (800) 687-1557, ext. 19181 www.mtdquiklink.com/19181
To request free product information by phone, call 800-687-1557, enter the extension number listed below, and you will be immediately transferred to the company you want to talk with — it takes only seconds.
To request information online, log on to www. mtdquiklink.com/ plus the corresponding Quik-Link number. You’re just a click away from receiving free information on the new products that interest you.
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Tire registration: voluntary or mandatory? Readers respond
Each month we ask members of our National Advisory Council (NAC) a question or questions on a current hot topic. Tis month we asked, “What are your thoughts on tire registration? Do you believe it should be made mandatory or remain voluntary?” Here are some of their responses. 1. I believe tire registration should be voluntary, but the small guys will never do it. 2. Primarily, we are concerned about the specifc wording of any such legislation as it may require a return to mandatory tire registration. Wording in the current S. 1741 legislation skirts this issue and the language in the proposed bill, at least of this date, remains unclear. 3. It should be voluntary and as easy as possible. Some of the top retailers do it for the consumer following a purchase — that’s a value added service! Any method to simplify it for the consumer is good. 4. If there are proper tools to make it streamlined, I am not against making tire registration mandatory. 5. I believe it should be mandatory. 6. I feel the current voluntary registration of tires is fne. 7. I would prefer to keep it voluntary, if for no other reason than we already have more than enough government regulations.
We also asked or NAC, “How do you pay your service techs? By the hour or by the job? And why do you prefer that method of compensation?” Here are a couple of responses. 1. For those technicians who prefer to work slowly and methodically, employment in a flat-rate environment is usually not a good ft. When these same technicians possess a specialty to solve the elusive, difcult problems that plague some vehicles, fat-rate work can also hold litle appeal. In truth, it’s a balancing act. On the other hand, when technicians can do a good job quickly and fnd a shop with ample work that requires their set of skills, they can thrive fnancially in a fat-rate or incentive environment. 2. We pay our technicians by the job using a fat rate.
An association responds to tire registration legislation
Dear Editor,
It is the position of the North Carolina Tire Dealers Association to always protect and deliver critical information to the motoring public in the event of recalled tires. How this will be done is at question. It is our opinion, that (if) legislation is passed to move this away from consumers registering tires, we would recommend the solution of scanning the Tire Identifcation Number (TIN) to the Vehicle Identifcation Number (VIN). Doing this would provide a continued connection of the tires to the vehicle, regardless of the vehicle changing ownership. Bar code scanning would simplify the recording process, in addition to reducing human error of capturing eight to 12 numbers and leters. Uploading TIN-VIN keeps tires with the car and the information can go to a central location.
Tire manufacturers can provide the necessary applications needed in providing these changes if we move away from consumers registering their own tires as they currently do appliances, computers, car seats, etc. Reece Hester, Executive Director North Carolina Tire Dealers Association Raleigh, N.C.
We love feedback! The editors of MTD want to know what you are thinking. We rely on members of our National Advisory Council each month to track sales data (see Your marketplace on page 21), and to keep in touch with the hot topics that are affecting tire dealers. Our monthly survey gives you the chance to sound off. If you’d like to join this group, email bob.ulrich@bobit.com. You also can let us know your thoughts on subjects we write about online. See the “Post a Comment” box following each news item and article on www.moderntiredealer.com. Simply fll in the blanks, write your comment and hit “Submit.” We want to hear from you!
Join Modern Tire Dealer’s National Advisory Council Each month, Modern Tire Dealer is guided and infuenced by a select group of readers — members of our National Advisory Council. Tese members’ opinions are the heart of the monthly Your Marketplace column, compiled by industry analyst Nick Mitchell. If you’d like to join this prestigious group, please let us know. We’d love to hear from you. Contact Editor Bob Ulrich at Bob.Ulrich@bobit.com or call (330) 899-2200, ext. 11.
