18 minute read
BFG advances its Advantage T/A ‘powerline
from Modern Tire Dealer - November 2017
by EndeavorBusinessMedia-VehicleRepairGroup
It offers one solution for drivers and dealers, says Michelin
By Lori L. Mavrigian
Michelin North America Inc. is powering-up its BFGoodrich tire lines with two tires, the next generation Advantage T/A and the new Advantage T/A LT. They boost what the company is calling its “powerline,” which offers consumers all-season/all-purpose tires with advanced mileage and agile handling.
The BFG Advantage T/A is for cars, CUVs and minivans, while the BFG Advantage T/A LT is for CUVs, SUVs and some light trucks.
The tires fall within the BFGoodrich portfolio which also includes:
• the Mud-Terrain T/A and All-Terrain T/A KO2 for off-road performance; • the Advantage T/A LT and Advantage T/A for daily fun; and • the g-Force Comp-2 A/S and g-Force Sport Comp-2 for ultra-high performance.
According to Matthew Cabe, senior country operations marketing manager for Michelin, “We are really attacking the powerline concept. What that means to us is being able to provide our dealers with options, whether it’s the Advantage T/A or the Advantage T/A LT. We don’t have any overlapping sizes; they’re very much one continuous entity.”
Advantage light truck
The Advantage T/A LT has what the company describes as a “raptor claw” tread design which has earned the three peak mountain snowflake symbol for winter driving. “In tests,” says Cabe, “the tires had 30% better snow traction than the leading competitors.”
The Advantage T/A LT is going to replace the company’s Long Trail T/A Tour, which is being phased out. The new tire is also 9% better in preventing hydroplaning than the Long Trail and 10% better in handling, notes Cabe. It also offers a “much more competitive warranty. We’re 60,000 miles on the V-rated tire and 65,000 miles on the T and H.
“The Long Trail was getting a bit long in the tooth,” says Cabe. “We had the opportunity to take advantage of putting in some better technology than what we had before.” Both tires incorporate the company’s 3D Active Sipe and Aqua-Flume technology.
Michelin also is touting the tire’s full-depth tread feature,
The full-depth, “raptor claw” tread on the Advantage T/A LT is designed to look the same when worn as it does new, therefore retaining its performance characteristics.
which means the tread looks the same when worn as it does when new. Cabe says, “The tagline we’re using is ‘Bald isn’t always beautiful.’ We feel like we’re bringing value to the consumer and thereby value to our dealers.
“They can stand by their tires and tell customers, ‘We’re providing you with something that’s top shelf. You’re getting a lot of benefits through the entire tire life, not just surface level, but full depth.’
“I feel like we’re able to bring a tire to market that’s not a one-trick pony,” Cabe says. “Some of our competitors’ tires are one dimensional. We’re bringing something to market that serves the needs of the majority of consumers, and because of the additional handling and snow performance, people can have fun with it.”
Thirty-three sizes are currently available ranging from 16-inch to 20-inch. Six more sizes will be released in March 2018, including one 22-inch size: 285/45R22.
“This is the evolution of the market,” Cabe points out. “This points to the growth of SUVs now and in the future. We’re looking at ahead to 2024. SUVs are going up, passenger vehicles are going down. Light trucks are stable. Currently, light trucks are the number-one and number-two-selling vehicles in the market. The Ford F-150 and Chevy Silverado own a huge share of the segment. The LT line plays well with this trend and it looks good on them.”
With the addition of the two tires, the company is also phasing out: • the previous generation Advantage T/A; • the g-Force Super Sport (H – and V-rated); and • the Touring T/A (a Sam’s Club-specific tire).
Sensor initiation varies for automatic and manual models
SUBJECT VEHICLES: 2011-2017 Hyundai Elantra, 2014 Elantra Coupe and 2009-2012 Elantra Touring. RELEARN PROCEDURE? Yes. SPECIAL TOOLS NEEDED? Yes, a Hyundai GDS (Global Diagnostic System) with the TPMS module.
The tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) of the 2011-2017 Hyundai Elantra, 2014 Elantra Coupe and 2009-2012 Elantra Touring monitors the air pressure in the four road tires with wheel-mounted tire pressure sensors. To do this, the system uses a receiver, four radio frequency (RF) tire pressure sensors, two warning indicators on the instrument cluster, and a data circuit to perform system functions.
When tire pressure is below the allowed threshold or a rapid leak is detected, the low pressure warning light on the instrument cluster will be illuminated. If the system detects a receiver or sensor fault, or if it detects a fault that is external to the receiver or sensor, the TPMS warning indicator will be illuminated. If the fault is considered “critical,” the light will stay on throughout the entire ignition cycle.
The tire pressure sensor operates in two modes: stationary/ rolling mode and sleep mode. In the stationary/rolling mode,
the sensor will measure pressure and temperature every four
Figure 1: Registering the tire pressure sensor (one of two).
Artwork courtesy of Hyundai Motor Co.
seconds, and measure acceleration every 60 seconds. In sleep mode, the sensor enters a low current consumption state where no measurements are made in order to conserve battery power. All sensors are in this state when new. The sensor will not transmit unless requested to do so by the initiate command or when the vehicle accelerates to 20 mph (32 km/h). Tire pressure monitor warning indicators
When the low tire pressure warning light comes on the air pressure of all tires needs checked and adjusted to the specified cold pressure listed on the vehicle certification label (found on the driver’s door or door pillar). If the tire is damaged, repair as necessary. Ensure the warning light goes off (this may take up to four minutes if the tire is not rapidly re-inflated). If the warning light stays on, recheck tire pressure. If tire pressure is OK, turn the wheel a quarter turn and wait another four minutes (the sensor may be in an RF null). If the warning light is still on or if the TPMS warning indicator is lit, there is a malfunction in the TPMS. Reset procedures
NOTE: If the tire pressure sensor is replaced, it will need to be initiated. The TPMS is not affected by wheel and tire rotation. When the low tire pressure pressure of all tires and adjust to the specified cold pressure listed on vehicle certification label (found on driver’s door or door pillar). Ensure the warning light goes off (this may take up to four minutes Tire pressure sensor initiation once per ignition cycle. On successful completion, four road wheel sensor
IDs, together with their respective road wheel positions, are latched into memory for monitoring. • Until Auto-Learn completes, pre• Auto-location / learning only functions when speed is more than 15 mph (20 kph). a Hyundai GDS (Global Diagnostic System) with the TPMS module must be used. NOTE: When four sensors have been learned as road wheels, it is not possible to learn new road wheel sensors on the same ignition cycle. 1) Condition – Ignition ON and Engine OFF 2) Hold the TPMS module within 3 inches (76 mm) of the sensor valve, read each tire pressure sensor ID in the following order: front left, front right, rear left, then rear right. 3) Press the ENTER button as each tire is illuminated on
warning light comes on, check the air if the tire is not rapidly re-inflated). (automatic) • Auto-locate/learn takes place only
viously learned sensors (together with their respective locations) are monitored for under-inflation / leak warnings. the screen.
• It takes less than 10 minutes at 15 mph (20 kph). Tire pressure sensor initiation (manual)
NOTE: In the following procedure,
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4) Press the WRITE button after reading all of the sensor IDs. 5) Connect GDS to Data Link Connector (DLC) located under the left side of the instrument panel. Register the four sensor IDs to the receiver (see Figures 1 and 2). NOTE: The TPMS receiver will complete the learn procedure of the new sensor after the vehicle is driven up to 20 minutes at speeds over 20 mph (32 km/h). NOTE: For the system to correctly monitor the tires for underinflation, there should be a total of exactly four sensors, one on each of the four road wheel positions. There should be no other sensors in the vehicle since this could cause the system to monitor the wrong sensors or fail to lean a new sensor. 6) Modify any sensor ID and press the [OK] button.
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. Ensure that the wheel to be fitted is designed for the sensor mount. There should normally be a mark to indicate this.
NOTE: Tire pressure is also dependent on temperature of the tire. For every 18 degrees Fahrenheit (10 degrees Celsius) increase in tire temperature, tire pressure increases about 1.5 psi (10 kPa). Tire pressure should only be adjusted when tires are cold (about the same as ambient air temperature). CAUTION: Do not use puncture repair fluid, as this can cause sensor pressure port to block and an incorrect warning to occur.
Removal 1) Remove the wheel and tire assembly. CAUTION: Avoid tire/tool contact with the valve while demounting the tire. 2) Deflate the tire and remove the balance weights. The tire bead should be broken about 180 degrees from the valve side of the wheel. The bead breaker should not be set too deep. Demount should end near the valve. CAUTION: The valve nut should not be re-used. 3) While handling the sensor with care, remove the valve nut. 4) Discard the valve stem assembly.
Installation
CAUTION: Avoid bringing tire pressure sensor in contact with lubricant. Always handle the tire pressure sensor carefully. 1) Assemble the valve to the sensor, making sure the hex nut is in contact with the metal insert in the sensor body (see Figure 3). 2) Tighten the 7 mm nut with a nut driver to the required torque. See “Torque specifications. 3) Ensure that the valve hole and mating face of the wheel are
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Figure 3: Installing the valve to the sensor.
clean. Mount assembly to the wheel using a standard valve stem puller tool. 4) Lubricate the tire bead (not the rim). Do not use excessive lubrication. 5) Start tire mounting at about the 5 o’clock position from the valve. Move the mounting tool away from the valve. Avoid tire/tool contact with the valve. Finish with the mounting tool near the valve. 6) Adjust inflation pressure of all the wheels. Install the valve cap. 7) If installing a new sensor, initiate the tire pressure sensor. ■
Torque specifications Component Wheel nut
Tire pressure sensor valve nut Ft.-lbs. 65-79.6 In.-lbs. 35 (N.m) (88-108) (N.m) (4)
Information for this column comes from 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 www.mitchell1.com. For archived TPMS articles, visit www. moderntiredealer.com.
Sentury Tire introduces Landsail 4-Season
The new Landsail 4-Seasons all-weather passenger car radial tire from Sentury Tire Americas meets the standards of the U.S. Tire Manufacturers Association for winter driving conditions. The company says the tread design, compound and depth meet higher winter performance requirements for harsh driving conditions and earned the mountain/ snowflake symbol designation. Other features include “quiet ride” pitch alignment to reduce road noise resonance and three wide longitudinal drainage grooves to channel water out from under the tire for more optimal control in rain and snow. SENTURY TIRE AMERICAS www.landsailtires.com/tires/4-seasons
Toyo introduces Proxes ST III all-season tire
Toyo Tire U.S.A. Corp. has released the Proxes ST III all-season tire for sport trucks and sport utility vehicles. The company says the Proxes ST III is the perfect balance of dynamic looks and sportoriented performance. Arrowhead tapers help deliver increased tread block stiffness resulting in better straight-line stability. Directional shoulder blocks stabilize the tread blocks for better braking performance and a quieter ride. The Toyo Proxes ST III is available in V- and W-rated sizes to fit 17- to 24-inch wheels. The tire is backed by a 40,000-mile warranty. TOYO TIRE U.S.A. CORP. www.toyotires.com
New five-gas analyzer is designed to monitor engine performance
The new portable F5000-5GAS exhaust analyzer from E Instruments International is designed to monitor the performance of fuel additives and engine catalysts. The gas analyzer features high accuracy NDIR (non-dispersive infrared) sensors to monitor CO, CO2 and HC gases. Electrochemical sensors measure O2 and NO/ NOx gases. The analyzer provides Lambda and AFR calculations. The F5000 includes real-time data-logging PC software with bluetooth connectivity; rechargeable, long life battery; 12-inch probe with s-type fitting and exhaust clamp; optional flexible probe tip; and optional wireless Bluetooth printer for on-site reports. E INSTRUMENTS INTERNATIONAL LLC www.e-inst.com
New Robinair machine services standard and high-voltage systems
The new Robinair AC1234-4 for R-1234yf systems from Bosch Automotive Service Solutions is designed for both standard and high-voltage A/C systems. Technicians can program the AC1234-4 for service and return when complete. Bosch says the Robinair AC1234-4 offers 98.5% recovery efficiency and precise charge accuracy to better than a half-ounce of the programmed charge amount. Features include an automatic internal tank refill and an automatic oil drain to show the amount of oil removed during service. An automatic air purge removes air accumulated in the internal tank while programmable vacuum operation quickly reaches the necessary vacuum level in nearly any condition. BOSCH AUTOMOTIVE SERVICE SOLUTIONS www.robinair.com
CRP Automotive’s new transmission fluid service kits aim to simplify service
CRP Automotive has developed three service kits designed to simplify transmission fluid service on Audi, BMW and Volkswagen vehicles. The kits feature two CRP Automotive brands: Pentosin and Rein Automotive. Pentosin ATF1 is a long-life fully synthetic high performance automatic transmission fluid designed for lifetime application in automatic gearboxes. The kits include Rein Automotive OE-quality transmission fluid filters. CRP AUTOMOTIVE www.crpautomotive.com
Clore adds 12-volt jump starter to Booster Pac line
Clore Automotive Inc. has added the ES580 12 volt jump starter and power supply to its Booster Pac brand product line. Clore says the ES580 is an ideal shop tool, combining robust jump starting power with numerous features that deliver utility and convenience, including preheat capability for improved performance in extreme cold temperatures, USB outlets to power small electronics, 12 volt power supply capability and a high intensity LED work light. With 700 peak amps and 330 start assist amps of starting power, the ES580 can tackle a wide variety of starting tasks, including automotive, marine, light truck, agricultural and fleet starting. CLORE AUTOMOTIVE INC. www.cloreautomotive.com
When you contact one of our advertisers please be sure to mention you saw their ad in Modern Tire Dealer
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Our friend Harvey Brodsky, the voice of retreading, has died. He was 81 (see “In memoriam” on page 17). Following our posting of his obituary on our website, many readers were moved to comment. Here is a sample.
Harvey not only talked the talk where retreads are concerned, but also walked the walk. He was a thoroughly decent and nice guy who I was privileged to know and who had a wealth of retreading knowledge.
If God didn’t use retreads, he will now! Richard O’Connell, Retired Bandvulc Tyres Ltd. Ivybridge, Devon, UK
Harvey Brodsky has died. This is really sad news. He was an industry icon and one of the best industry proponents I ever encountered.
If someone said one thing bad about retreads, you can bet that minutes later you would have an email rebuttal from Harvey, cc’ing the world.
It is easy to say he will be missed, but he will be MISSED! Mike Antich, Editor and Associate Publisher Automotive Fleet magazine Torrance, Calif.
MTD Editor Bob Ulrich also wrote a blog entitled “Harvey Brodsky made a lasting impression on retreading, the tire industry and me.” Readers left these remarks:
Harvey was a stellar advocate for our industry, but much more importantly, he was truly an excellent human being! Shawn Rasey, Director Global Business Development, Earthmover Tires Continental Tire the Americas LLC Fort Mill, S.C.
Well said, Bob. Harvey was a neat guy and always on duty. A real friend to the tire industry. Dave Redfern, Retired, Formerly Owner/Partner of Redwood General Tire and Former Executive Director of the California Tire Dealers Association Redwood City, Calif.
We are very sorry to hear of Harvey’s passing. I met Harvey way back, probably in l972 at the American Retreaders Association convention in Louisville, Ky., or at the Vegas tire convention. At that time he was on crutches, and flying through the exhibit hall faster than anyone who was walking through the center!
He was a great guy, and we will always remember him.
At that time I was with Topflight Corp., a pressure sensitive label printing company in York, Pa. One time, on his way to Philadelphia, he stopped in to visit with us, and he did a walk through and spoke with our employees. He said the way a company treats its employees is evident in the way it keeps its employee restrooms. Fortunately, ours were fine, but I thought that was a great evaluation! Carolyn Jacobs, Sales Alpha Marketing Associates Bonita Springs, Fla.
Bob, very well said. Harvey was just one of those people who radiated enthusiasm.
In the tire industry, if you mentioned the name “Harvey,” everyone immediately knew who you were talking about — Harvey Brodsky.
I think Harvey Firestone would come in a distant second! Dick Gust, President of National Account Sales, Director of Government Affairs Liberty Tire Recycling Pittsburgh, Pa.
Well done, Bob. Harvey was a good man. George Pehanick, CEO East Bay Tire Co. Fairfield, Calif.
Harvey was a first class gentleman. Rest in peace, my friend. Wayne Croswell, CEO and President WECnology LLC Amherst, N.H.
He has an eye on details
Dear Wayne Williams,
Your article in MTD’s September issue is solid! (See “We are retailers: You must keep an eye on the details in retail.”)
The length is short but it is intelligently focused. Your question toward the end is one that needs to be asked daily, Wayne. “Why would a store offer tires online that they are unlikely to offer at the counter?”
Thanks for doing what you do and being a voice of sanity. Keep it up and KUDOS again, Wayne. Look forward to seeing you at the SEMA Show! Tyson Boyer, Forward Movement Ambassador Dill Air Control Products Oxford, N.C.
Join Modern Tire Dealer’s National Advisory Council Each month, Modern Tire Dealer is guided and influenced by a select group of readers — members of our National Advisory Council. These 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. 2211.
