0 Tyres in Brisbane – Tyre development to rival Star Wars science fiction

Tyres in Brisbane –  Self-inflating and self-grooving tyres are around the corner

I sometimes sit and wonder about the future of driving, cars, commercial vehicles, and, of course, tyres in Brisbane. The way that the automotive market has changed in even the last twenty years or so has been remarkable.

Cars used to be big and square. They’re now smaller and sleeker, and yet have more space for passengers and luggage. Steering commercial vehicles used to require Popeye-sized muscles. The dashboard used to consist of only a speedometer and a temperature gauge. Sit at the steering wheel of a modern vehicle, and you could be in the cockpit of a Jedi starfighter.

Now, companies are racing to be the first mass-producer of driverless vehicles. Though I have to confess the latest ‘no-hands parking’ functionality will be a godsend to many, I do wonder if such automation will remove the enjoyment of driving for many. Will there be a point when drivers say “enough is enough”, or will technology continue to shape our driving experience? And what is the future for the car and commercial vehicle tyres (especially here in Brisbane)?

In this article, I look at what the automotive and tyre industry might have in store for all of us.

The digital age is going to deliver better performance

Vehicles are going to get faster. They’re going to become greener, deliver more kilometres per litre and become more interactive, but with less driver interaction.

The digital age has already delivered engines that are monitored by a hundred and one sensors. A mechanic no longer pops the bonnet and spends ten minutes looking around your engine and listening to it in physical examination. He plugs it into an all-knowing digital analyser, which pinpoints an issue in seconds.

When you’re driving, you benefit from external sensors that help you reverse in tight spaces, alert you if you get too close to the vehicle ahead, and ring alarms the moment your tyres touch a white line. Like I’ve already said, car dashboards are like something out of Star Wars.

There’s a lot more to come, and developments are going to come thick and fast.

The new age of the supercar is here

Auto magazines are already predicting that supercars that can travel at more than 300 km per hour will be in production within four years. These cars will have just four cylinders as standard. Ford’s EcoBoost Mustang reaches around 230 km per hour, costs around US$25,000, and is already helping Mustang break sales records in the United States.

Supercars with smaller engines, offering better fuel consumption and faster top speeds will be standard in a few years. Perhaps not everything the average petrolhead wants to hear, but definitely the direction of the market.

Lighter cars equal lower fuel bills

The world is going green and lean, and this philosophy is the direction in which vehicle manufacturing is travelling. Carbon emissions are reducing, but the use of carbon fibre is increasing in the production of cars and commercial vehicles. It’s robust and stiff, and it’s lightweight, too. This weight advantage is going to help fuel consumption and performance. Manufacturers are developing carbon fibre parts to replace steel and aluminium used today. By 2020, the automotive industry will be the world’s largest consumer of carbon fibre, which will help to further reduce carbon emissions.

Hybrid cars will become the norm

Battery and engine management advances have helped manufacturers produce hybrid engine cars that will soon be the norm. Fuel economy is going to sprint forward, and roads are going to become quieter – I drove a hybrid recently and thought the engine had cut out at every light!

Reduced driver interaction

We’re already starting to get used to cars that make decisions for us. Cruise control has been around for a while now, and newer technology like distance control is becoming more common. How far can this technology take us? Self-driving vehicles are around the corner, and cars like the Tesla Model S and BMW 7 Series already have technology that self-corrects performance for different road and weather conditions – drivers don’t even know their decisions are being made for them.

Greater vehicle interaction

Where drivers will be relieved of much of their current in-vehicle responsibilities, vehicles themselves will become more interactive. They’ll start talking to each other.

There’ll come a time, and it could be very soon, that vehicles alert other vehicles in bad road conditions, heavy traffic, bad weather, and so on. Your vehicle’s Sat Nav system will update its route in real time, as all this information from other road users is downloaded and crunched at superfast speeds.

The future for tyres in the new age of driving

If you think all the above is exciting stuff, then listen to what could be in store for the rubber between you and Brisbane’s roads.

A few weeks ago, I wrote about how commercial vehicle tyres just took a giant leap forward. We can expect more advances over the next few years. You’ll see new tyre compounds, and tread patterns will evolve for greater safety. Road handling capability will increase, but that’s not all. Here’s what tyre manufacturers have got up their sleeves:

• Chips located inside the tyre will connect the tyre to the engine like never before. Just like vehicles will talk to each other, tyres will talk to the vehicle.
• The Tyres will evolve with the road conditions underneath, altering their air pressures to give better traction.
• Tyres that renew their tread grooves – retreading could be a thing of the past.
• Tyres that self-inflate.
• Airless tyres that offer a smoother and safer drive.

Within a decade, the tyres we use on the roads in Brisbane could be a galaxy away from today’s models. It might sound a little science fiction, but we really could be driving on tyres that are safer, greener, perform better, and last longer. Or maybe we won’t be driving on them, but merely sitting in a car that transports us from A to B without the need for driver interaction.

Whatever the future for cars and commercial vehicles, tyres will evolve, too. Tyre manufacturers are spending billions of dollars every year to bring tomorrow’s tyres to you today.

Whatever your tyre needs – high performance, better handling, longer life – contact us today (by Skype, or on our contact form) or phone us on 3333 5510 and book an appointment to have your tyres checked in Brisbane. You’ll find the latest tyres with the most modern technology are on our shelves.

Keeping your family and fleet safely on the road,

Kevin Wood

0 Commercial Vehicle Tyres – How to avoid a tyre blowout on your truck

Commercial vehicle tyres –  What causes a commercial vehicle tyre blowout

If you’ve ever suffered a blowout while driving your car, you’ll know how scary it can be. If a blowout happens to a commercial vehicle tyre, the result could be fatal.

In this article, I’ll look at why commercial vehicle tyres might suffer a blowout and how you can reduce your risk of accidents while on the road.

Why do commercial vehicle tyres blowout?

Commercial vehicle blowouts mostly happen for one of four reasons:

• Excessive speed
• Poor tyre maintenance
• Defective tyres
• Wrong tyre placement

Driving speed is a factor that only you can regulate while you’re on the road. If you plan to drive long distances at high speed, then always make sure your tyres are inflated correctly. Of course, if you’re driving at excessive speed, an accident caused by a blowout will be deemed to be your fault.

A good tyre maintenance regime will help you detect tread wear, incorrectly inflated tyres, and damage to sidewalls. These are the major factors that contribute to blowouts of commercial vehicle tyres. Poor maintenance equals an increased risk of a blowout. And poor tyre maintenance that leads to an accident is your fault.

With a good tyre buying and maintenance programme in place, you’re more likely to notice tyre defects. We’d all like to think that we’d never get sold a defective tyre, but like all products, there is always a risk of a batch being produced with defects. The manufacturer might recall a particular model. It’s your responsibility to return the defective tyres and replace with the correct ones. If there hasn’t been a recall, any accident that has been caused by the tyre will be the responsibility of the tyre manufacturer.

If you’ve placed the wrong tyre in the wrong position on your truck, or if the tread depths aren’t correct, or the tyres are mismatched, the chances of a blowout are increased – and any accident is most definitely your fault.

As you can see, responsibility is dictated by negligence. When you’re on the road, don’t be negligent about your tyres and your truck.

The five-minute truck stop check

Whenever you take a break from driving, whether for a bite to eat or other reason, before you pull away and get back on the road, take five minutes to do a quick safety check. It should include your tyres, brakes, under the cab, and lights:

·      Lights and reflectors

Turn on the lights, walk around your truck and make sure that all your lights are in working order – including your trailer lights and indicators.

·      Under the cab

Use a torch and get close to the ground. Look right underneath the truck and check for signs of any leaks. A drip could be the sign of a big problem further down the road.

·      Brakes

Check the airlines and brakes before you pull away. Look for rust and oil. If you’ve made this check a regular habit, you’ll know exactly what to look for. What looks out of the ordinary usually is. Don’t ignore your sense of hearing, either. Often the first warning of failing brakes is the one you hear.

·      Tyres

Run a gloved hand over each tyre. Use the torchlight to make a closer inspection if you feel anything unusual. Make sure you check the sidewalls for tears and balding. If you’re in any doubt about the state of your tyres, call us here at Darra Tyres (07 3333 5510). Our mission is to keep you safe on the roads. You won’t find a more committed tyre service in West Brisbane.

Don’t become the next victim of a tyre blowout

This simple five-minute truck stop check could be the five minutes that save your life, and the lives of other road users. You never know what has happened to your tyres on the roads in the time between your pre-trip check and the first stop, and between stops.

If your truck tyre does blow out, especially on a big rig, you’re likely to lose control of the vehicle – if only for a few seconds. A tyre blowout and the few seconds immediately after is all it takes for a dangerous incident to evolve into a serious accident. When an accident involves a big truck, the probability of serious injury and death is magnified. Five minutes is all it takes to reduce the chance of this happening to you. Of all the good habits that I know, the five-minute truck stop check might just be the best.

Whatever your tyre needs, contact us today (by Skype, telephone, or on our contact form) and book an appointment to have your tyres checked in Brisbane.

Keeping your family and fleet safely on the road,

Kevin Wood

0 Commercial Vehicle Tyres – It’s time to profit from the benefits of tyre sensors

Commercial Vehicle Tyres – How a TPMS (Tyre Pressure Monitoring system) decreases fuel costs and increases safety

In 2012, one of the world’s top tyre manufacturers, GT Radial, announced the findings of a survey that opened the lid on the real cost of underinflated tyres. It found that Australian motorists driving with underinflated tyres are wasting around 20c per litre of fuel.

In the mining, industrial and fleet industries, commercial vehicle tyre and fuel costs are the two highest costs. Helping your tyres last longer and cutting fuel costs will directly improve your bottom line.

In this article, you’ll learn why manual tyre checks aren’t enough to ensure fleet safety and reduce costs. I’ll examine the benefits of a tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS). Finally, I’ll tell you how a TPMS works.

The five disadvantages of relying on manual tyre checks on commercial vehicle tyres

As I discussed in my last article, “How to avoid a tyre blowout on your truck”, maintenance and manual checks at each stop are essential. These checks will detect damage to the tyre. But they won’t ensure that a tyre is working at its peak while you’re driving. Here are five reasons why manual checks aren’t enough to ensure your commercial vehicle tyres are performing at their peak, increasing safety, and minimising fuel consumption:

1.     Manual checks only confirm tyre pressure when parked

When a truck is parked, especially if it’s for an extended break, the tyre pressure will not be the same as when it’s running on the road. Unsafe tyre pressures could be missed.

2.     Manual checks can be inaccurate

Mistakes in manual pressure readings are not uncommon. And manual checks don’t take internal air temperatures into consideration. The result is that the tyre could be incorrectly inflated.

3.     Manual checks are infrequent

Despite advice from tyre experts, commercial vehicle tyre pressures are not checked as frequently as they should be. It leads to increased wear and tear and decreased tyre life. The result is higher tyre costs.

4.     Manual checks miss slow leaks

A damaged tyre or valve could produce a slow leak that goes undetected during manual checks. On the road, this could prove fatal.

5.     Manual checks don’t adjust tyre pressures accurately

The correct tyre pressure is dependent upon the internal temperature of the tyre. Manual checks can’t measure this. The outcome is that tyres could be inflated incorrectly.

The five benefits of TPMSs

A TPMS works on the move, providing real-time information about tyre pressures and temperatures. It adds to the effectiveness of regular manual tyre checks. It also provides the driver with an immediate warning of running problems that could also lead to engine damage.

A TPMS reduces fuel costs, increases tyre life, and reduces the time that vehicles spend in maintenance.

Automated tyre pressure and temperature checks made by a TPMS will:

1.     Reduce poor performance of manual checks

A TPMS is continuous, automated, and accurate. Human error is reduced, and the scans made by TPMSs are accurate to within 1% or 2%.

2.     Decrease fuel consumption

Every tyre which is underinflated will increase fuel consumption. GT Radial research concluded that a tyre running at a pressure just 5PSI below its recommendation could use 10% more fuel. Proper tyre inflation minimises fuel consumption.

3.     Increase tyre life

Improper inflation is a direct cause of increased wear and tear on tyres. A TPMS monitors tyres efficiently and effectively, helping to make sure they don’t fail before their next service.

4.     Reduce downtime

A TPMS eliminates errors and reduces the time it takes for manual tyre checks to be made. Because your tyres are working at the correct pressures, you’ll suffer fewer problems. The result is that downtime will be hammered.

5.     Improve road safety

Drivers will operate more safely, responding to tyre pressure changes as they occur. It reduces the risk of blowouts and accidents.

How does a TPMS work?

A TPMS is easy to install. A sensor is screwed into the wheel or rim or sometimes screwed directly into the valve. This sensor measures tyre pressure and internal air temperature.

The measurements are constantly made, and transmitted wirelessly to an in-cab monitor. The monitor can be configured to signal alerts at pre-specified ranges.

Fleet managers can then download data to the management PC. The software is used to produce charts and graphs. It enables easily identifiable tyre performance issues, which can be used in driver education as well as informing about tyre maintenance schedules. This information can also be used to make better commercial vehicle tyre purchasing decisions.

Isn’t it time you invested in a TPMS?

If you haven’t already, it may be time to invest in a TPMS. Tyre and fuel costs aren’t going down in the long term. A TPMS is easy to install, easy to use, and provides real benefits to commercial fleets. Automatic, real-time data helps your driver adjust driving style and increase tyre life.

Tyre problems are identified immediately, instead of at the end of a long-haul trip.

A TPMS doesn’t negate the need for manual tyre checks. But it does add an extra level of commercial vehicle tyre security that will help fleet managers achieve important aims:

• Improve road safety
• Increase tyre life
• Decrease fuel consumption

Whatever your fleet tyre needs, contact us today (by Skype, telephone, or on our contact form) and book an appointment to have your tyres checked in Brisbane.

Cheers,

Kevin Wood

0 Tyres in Brisbane – Is it safe to drive with mismatched tyres?

Tyres in Brisbane – Make sure your tyre change is made for safe driving

When your vehicle’s tyres in Brisbane are replaced, it pays to go to a tyre specialist. That’s what the following story shows – a nightmare that I wouldn’t have thought could be true. Unfortunately, it is, and it makes me wonder how many other cars are in a similar dangerous state.

Even car dealerships make mistakes with tyres in Brisbane

I was discussing tyres at a barbie a couple of weekends ago when a friend said that she was experiencing poor control. She had twice felt her back-end slip on the camber of a bend that morning before arriving at our place.

As soon as I examined her car, I knew the reason her driving was suffering. She’d had three new tyres recently. That’s three. Not two or four, but three. It turns out that she’d taken her car for a service, and the dealer had replaced the tyres that they said needed replacing. And it turns out that not all car dealerships know that you should never switch out an uneven number of tyres.

Not only had the dealership changed only three tyres, they’d also changed them for a different size! The three new tyres were P195/65/R15, and the one that they left was P195/60/R15. (For an explanation about tyre sizes, see our tyre blog “How to choose the best tyres for Queensland roads and save money”.)

Is it dangerous to drive on mismatched tyres?

As my friend had experienced, mismatched tyres can produce poor vehicle handling. If all your tyres are the same make, model and size, you’ll be able to maintain them for longer with a good tyre rotation policy. Uneven tyres equal uneven steering and uneven braking. By rotating regularly, wear should be evener.

What’s the best strategy for changing tyres?

Ideally, you should replace all four tyres at the same time. It’s also best to replace like with like – the same manufacturer and the same amount of wear. It creates an even balance to your vehicle and improves handling, especially when you most need it – on wet roads, around corners, and in heavy traffic.

For most people, changing all four tyres simultaneously is an expensive proposition. Especially if only one tyre ‘needs’ replacing – for example if you’ve had a blowout. It’s unreasonable to expect you to go to the expense of changing all four tyres for the sake of a single flat.

What if you can’t afford to replace all four tyres?

If you can’t afford to replace all four tyres at the same time, then you should replace in pairs – and on the same axle. Replace with the same style, size and make as your remaining tyres. If this is impossible, speak to us and we’ll suggest a suitable alternative as close to the dimensions and tread design as possible. Most importantly, we’ll match performance, speed and load ratings, and traction characteristics.

And if your remaining tyres have a little wear and tear?

If the remaining tyres haven’t had much wear on them, then you may get away with replacing only the flat. If you do this, then select a tyre that’s the same make, size and type as the tyre on the opposite end of the same axle.

Another solution may be to buy retread tyres – a suggestion that some tyre buyers might consider being preposterous (having been taught by their fathers and grandfathers that retreads are dangerous), but a solution that could save hundreds of dollars on a set of four new tyres.

Always change your tyres with a strategy of safety first. Contact us today on 07 3333 5510 and book an appointment to have your tyres checked in Brisbane.

Keeping your family and fleet safely on the road,

Kevin Wood

0 Tyres in West Brisbane – Here’s how to save your tyres in wet conditions

Tyres in West Brisbane – Safety tips to avoid punctures in the rain

If there’s one thing we can be sure of in Queensland, it’s that tyres in West Brisbane will be put through their paces. They have to contend with long periods of tropical heat, and downpours that make the Niagara Falls look like a dripping tap. These extremes of weather make driving more difficult, and wet roads increase the risk of punctures.

In this blog, you’ll discover why there are more punctures when it’s raining, and I’ll give you my tips for driving safely in wet road conditions.

Wet rubber cuts up more easily

It’s a fact that wet rubber punctures more easily. The big tyre manufacturers have spent millions trying to develop tyres that are puncture proof.

I’ve seen some theories put forward as reasons for poorer tyre performance on wet roads. All of them have merit. For example:

• Rain washes more debris onto roads. Flint, nails and thorns that get blown away in dry conditions stick to wet roads.
• Tyres get sticky on wet roads, and sharp debris sticks more easily, before being forced into the tyre during a couple of revolutions.
• Acid rain degrades rubber.

Whatever the reason, if you watch this video about the effect of water on agricultural tyres you’ll see just how easily rubber can be cut into when it gets wet. The first time I saw this tyre video, I was shocked at the effect so little water can have on tyres in West Brisbane– especially when you consider how often we all drive in wet conditions.

You’ll notice in the video that the rubber being cut into so easily is almost slick. All the tread has gone. Tread depth and patterns don’t only help a tyre disperse water and keep a grip on the road – depth and tread help to avoid punctures.

You’ll find that every millimetre of tread that is worn away increases the chance of having a blowout. It’s been estimated that when your tyre is down to its last 10% of tread depth, the risk of a puncture more than doubles.

Tell me, do you want to be stuck by the side of a road changing a tyre, struggling with the jack and wheel nuts, and discovering your spare tyre is in worse shape than the punctured tyre, in the pouring rain?

Don’t let your tyres in West Brisbane get washed up in the wet

There’s no way to be 100% certain your tyre won’t get punctured, but you can cut down on the risk.  Here are some puncture prevention tips:

·      Don’t spare the spare

The first thing to do is to understand that your spare tyre is like an insurance policy. You hope you never have to use it, but if it is needed it will be the best you can afford. A lot of cars today have spare tyres designed to get you home, and even then they suggest no more than around 50 kilometres.

When I insure my car, I could go for insurance that does the bare minimum. Instead, I make sure that my No Claims is protected, that I’ve got a great cover for passengers, and that I’ve got legal cover, too. The extra few dollars is worth the peace of mind.

When I inspect the spare, I make sure that it’s a real tyre. That way I know that if the worst should happen, I’ve got a tyre that will get me home from wherever I am. Those few extra dollars I’ve spent are worth the peace of mind every time I step into my vehicle.

·      Check your tyres every week

At least weekly, I check my tyres. I look at them, run my fingers across them, and inspect the tread for stones or other debris. (Actually, that last bit – I do that as a force of habit before every journey.) Doing this tyre test makes sure that I watch the tread on my tyres constantly, and I spot any nicks or bulges straight away. If my tyres need changing, I’m the first to know about it.

I also include the spare tyre in my weekly tyre checking routine, making sure that it is inflated correctly, just like the others.

·      Keep your tyres inflated correctly

You’ll find the correct tyre pressure on a placard on the door jamb or the side of the glovebox. It will also be detailed in the owner’s manual. Never inflate to the numbers on the sidewall of the tyre – they are maximums for the tyre, and not necessarily the correct pressure for that tyre on your vehicle. Also, if you’re driving long distances or with heavy loads, you’ll need to inflate your tyres in West Brisbane appropriately.

·      Check the tyre tread depth

Worn tyres in Brisbane use more fuel, make braking more difficult, and decrease the handling capability of your vehicle.

Here in Queensland, the law says you must maintain at least 1.5mm of tread. If you see any signs of uneven wear, bald patches, or notice coloured bars coming through, bring your vehicle into our tyre shop in Darra − you could have a serious problem, or it may be that your wheels need rebalancing or realigning.

How to drive with wet tyres in West Brisbane

Four wet road techniques are essential to keeping you and your passengers safe when driving in the rain:

1.     Watch your speed

Rain makes roads slippery. It mixes with oil and creates skidpan conditions. On wet roads and when it’s raining, slow down. Not only will you have more time to see what is going on ahead of you, but also the science says that slower driving on wet roads makes for better tyre grip, as more of the tyre’s rubber is in contact with the road for longer.

2.     Keep your distance

Drivers that tailgate are a big bugbear of mine. Drivers that tailgate in the wet are ten times more dangerous. Even when you’re driving at a safer speed, there’s still a chance of skidding on wet roads. If you keep a healthy distance between you and the vehicle ahead, you’ll have more time to brake. You won’t have to slam the anchors on. Steady braking helps to avoid skids. Always drive with a distance of at least two car lengths between you and the car in front.

3.     How to recover from a skid

Skids can be pretty scary. If you do start skidding, don’t hit the brakes even harder. Ease back, keep a steady pressure on the brake pedal, and steer in the direction of the skid.

4.     Deal with aquaplaning

On slick, wet roads, aquaplaning is always a possibility. It’s caused by driving too fast through the water. Your speed doesn’t allow the tyre tread to do its job properly, and a film of water is created between the tyre and the tarmac. You lose traction, and instead of gripping the road you glide along it.

Don’t hit the brake! If you do, you will simply stop the wheel rotating, and it will take longer for water to disperse. The aquaplane will last longer.

Instead, take your foot off the accelerator, hold the steering wheel steady, change down a gear and apply the brakes gently. By doing this, the ‘engine brake’ (the way the car naturally slows when you take your foot off the accelerator) will help you to slow down. Once you’ve slowed enough, you’ll feel grip return, and you can continue on your way more safely (and slowly).

If you experience excessive skidding or aquaplaning, it’s likely that your tyres need changing or rotating.  Contact us today (by Skype, telephone, or on our contact form) and book an appointment to have your tyres checked in West Brisbane.

Keeping your family and fleet safely on the road,

Kevin Wood

0 Forklift Tyres – How to Choose and Maintain Forklift Tyres and Cut Costs

Lengthen forklift tyre life to cut your costs

When it comes to forklifts, the forklift tyres might be just about the most crucial moving part. (OK, apart from the forks) They’re also the silent partner in your daily work routine. Your forklift truck tyres must be man enough for the job at hand, but they should also be like a good kid – seen and never heard.

The choice you make for your forklift tyres depends on the work you’ll be doing, the weight your truck lifts, and the environment in which they’re used. When it comes to forklift tyres, there’s a big choice. You’ll have to decide between different types of forklift tyres, different treads, different compounds, and a host of ply ratings.

Here, I’ll run through your forklift truck tyres and the choice you have. I’ll offer some advice on handling and maintenance, getting the right forklift tyres and treating them properly to help make your workplace safer. Your forklift tyres will last longer, and your costs will fall.

How to choose the right forklift tyres

When you come to our Brisbane tyre shop for new forklift tyres, it helps to be prepared to answer a few questions. Simple things like:

• Where do you use your forklift? In a warehouse, or outside? Heat affects tyres.
• What type of surface is the truck driven on? Smooth, cobbled, concrete, etc.
• What weights will the forklift be lifting and moving?
• How about turning and how often will the forklift be making tight turns?

When you know the stresses and strains your forklift tyres are subjected to, we’ll tell you whether you’ll be best buying pneumatic or solid forklift truck tyres.

What type of forklift tyres are available today?

There are several different forklift tyre types, each ideal for different working environments. They include:

·      Solid forklift tyres

These are the most common. They’re good on a level and smooth surfaces, including indoors. That’s because they’re solid, reliable and puncture-proof (why they’re sometimes called ‘puncture-proof tyres’). However, they’re not immune from being damaged nor from daily wear and tear.

You’ll need to consider driver comfort: solid tyres won’t cushion on a bumpy terrain, which could be bad news for your back – and increase the possibility of damaging any goods being moved or your staff over the longer term.

In short, solid foklift tyres are great on smooth, even surfaces either indoors or outdoors. They last a long time but aren’t ideal for heavy loads or drivers that are susceptible to back pain.

·      Pneumatic forklift tyres

Pneumatic tyres offer more comfort and are the best type for use on rough ground. The downside with pneumatic forklift tyres is that they are not puncture proof. There’s always a premium for comfort.

To help protect the tyre from damage – and help with safety – it will have a deep tread and be made from a wear-resistant rubber compound. Because they’re air-filled, they provide a cushioning effect between the ground and the forklift, reducing wear on the forklift.

·      Cushion forklift tyres

A cushion tyre is made with a metal band that has rubber attached to it. They’re smaller than pneumatic tyres, so are better for working in enclosed and tight spaces. The name ‘cushion tyres’ might be somewhat misleading – they shouldn’t be used on rough ground, but are a good option for indoor warehouse work.

·      Polyurethane forklift tyres

You might find that the best tyre choice for you is a polyurethane compound – which could be ideal if all the work is indoors. These are also pressed on to fit. They’re best used indoors, and their small rolling resistance helps to lengthen their useful life.

·      Non-mark forklift tyres

Solid, non-mark tyres are designed to reduce tyre marks on floors. The downside is that they don’t last as long as other forklift tyres. Generally used by food processors.

·      Foam-fill forklift tyres

In many ways, foam fill tyres are like a cross between pneumatics and solids. They’re filled with a resin to make them puncture resistant. They act as a cushion on rough ground, and so are best for use where comfort is a factor, but the possibility of a puncture is high.

Looking after your forklift tyres

Damaged or rapidly worn tyres are costly and inconvenient. The driver who does a few doughnuts at the end of a shift may not understand that his bravado could be costing him a pay rise because of the extra tyres that have to be bought over the year. Apart from reminding forklift operators of the need to be responsible for their machinery, here are a few more things you can do to help your forklift tyres last longer:

Check inflation and loading

• Check your forklift tyres every week, and make sure that they’re inflated to the right pressure for the loads they’ll be supporting
• Make sure that each tyre valve is capped to prevent dirt getting in
• Don’t bleed the tyre of air

Store your forklift tyres correctly

Even when not in use, tyres suffer wear. If you leave them in the heat or in direct sunlight, the rubber will begin to decay.

• Don’t keep tyres for more than a few months at the most
• Store in a cool, dark place
• Try to avoid getting oil on your tyres

Forklift driver education

Poor drivers damage tyres. Make sure all your forklift drivers:

• Don’t do doughnuts
• Drive at lower speeds
• Brake gently
• Corner correctly
• Don’t lock wheels to turn
• Don’t go where the tyres aren’t designed for

Get the best forklift tyre advice in Brisbane

Don’t let your loads, drivers, and bottom line suffer from poor forklift tyre choice. If your drivers are off work with aches and pains more than they should be, your forklifts die earlier than they ought to, or your forklift tyres fail at regular intervals, come and speak to us in our Brisbane forklift tyre shop. We’ll help you to get the most out of your forklift tyres from day one.

If you’ve got any questions or queries, call our team on 3333 5510 now. We’re here to help.

Keeping your family and fleet safely on the road, (and warehouse)

Kevin Wood

0 If Ferrari made tractors, who would make the industrial tyres?

Tractor tyre innovation explained

When you think of tractors, you won’t associate them with Ferrari. However, this could change in the next few years. It was about this time last year that Zetor exhibited its Pininfarina-designed concept tractor, a tractor designed for the future. Sleek, modern, and Ferrari red. Not made by Ferrari, but created by the same design house that is behind some of the most iconic Ferraris of all time.

Here I look at the design, and if it is likely to usher in a new age of tractors in Australia.

What was Zetor thinking?

Zetor is a brand name that most non-agricultural people will never have heard. It’s a company that has sold more than a million units in 100 countries. It clearly knows its tractors. Its main manufacturing plant is in the Czech Republic, and its history of success is based upon engineering quality, design, and innovation.

A collaboration with Ferrari designer Pininfarina must be considered to be at the forefront of tractor design innovation. The result was a concept tractor, unveiled at last year’s Agritechnica fair in Hannover, Germany.

When you examine the Pininfarina-designed tractor, it’s easy to imagine the vehicle with a 0 to 60 mph rating on it. That wasn’t the case, but its aerodynamic lines are groundbreaking.

The tractor wasn’t built simply to look good, however. It had to be robust, reliable, and simple to work on. It was also designed to increase brand awareness. The red colour was a given – that’s something that Ferrari and Zetor already had in common. Something else that was evident in the concept model was functionality  (a constant from Zetor tractors) and grace  (a constant in Ferrari cars).

What tractor tyres would a Zetor concept use?

To deliver on its promise, the Zetor concept tractor would need to match its design, grace and functionality with tractor tyres that offer the same qualities. Could this be possible when it comes to tractor tyres?

Maybe. Last year Michelin unveiled a concept tractor tyre tread that could become an industry standard.

How do tractor tyre manufacturers improve performance?

When designing new tractor tyres and tread patterns, manufacturers put their concept tractor tyres through a whole range of tests. Sometimes they develop new tests to validate new findings. Once they’ve produced what they believe is an improved tractor tyre, they test it for functionality and robustness in the field. They have working farms to test the tyres, provide feedback, and then retest after refinements have been made. It could be months or even years before you see a tyre move from concept to production.

When it designed its new concept tractor tyre, Michelin considered soil compaction, ruts and depth of ruts, fuel savings, and length of service.

Soil compaction

Michelin uses a sand track to make systematic comparisons between tyres. It is something that is tough (if not impossible) to do in the field: different soil conditions, weather and humidity make it so. What happens on sand will happen on soil, and to ensure that results are consistent the tractor trye tests are repeated several times.

The improvements that the tractor tyre manufacturers want to see are larger footprints and shallower ruts.

How is the soil rutting test done?

The research boffins dig a ditch (okay, so they have the ditch dug for them) and fill it with soil of different colours. A tractor equipped with the new tyres then drives over the ditch. The impact is measured and analysed by digging out perpendicular to the line of the test drive.

Measuring soil compaction

The researchers use a test called a ‘penetronometer test’ which is used in the field to gauge the impact of soil compaction. Measurements are taken at regular intervals with a penetrometer – this measures how compacted the soil becomes, with more compacted soils leading to stunted crop growth.

Fuel consumption testing

The fuel test is used with maximum tractor output, in a soil preparation situation. The tractor has a tooth plough attached and covers a set distance. Tyre spin is measured, and sometimes an effort sensor is used to measure the traction force for better fuel consumption estimation.

Industrial tyres life

Tractor tyre life is measured by what is known as an ‘accelerated wear test’. It’s rigged to roll in realistic conditions for 24 hours a day. The test is done driverless to negate the effects of driving style. After a pre-set period, the tractor tyre tread is measured. These tests are then consolidated with actual farm use data to give an accurate assessment of tyre life.

What are the latest Michelin tractor tyre innovations?

Using these tests among others, Michelin is constantly innovating their tractor tyres. In fact, the company spends in the region of $450 million every year on tyre research and development.

Michelin’s Ultraflex Technology allows you to run tyres at lower inflated pressures. It increases footprint and reduces soil compaction. You’ll find your fuel consumption falls, the tyres last longer, and your crops grow better.

Just like Zetor developed a concept tractor, Michelin developed a concept tyre based on the Ultraflex Technology. When the concept tyre was first developed, Michelin’s Northern European Commercial Director, Mike Lawton, said:

“Farmers of the future face the substantial challenge of feeding ever-increasing populations with less arable land available to them. As a result, tractor tyre and machinery choice is going to become ever more important to maximise yield. Lawton continues… “Michelin researchers are exploring all avenues to develop the tyres of the future; this latest concept is evidence of this work in practice.”

Zetor’s concept tractor may be some years from coming on to full production, but Michelin’s latest tractor tyres are available now. Contact the team on 3375 3566, and we’ll be glad to discuss all the tyres we stock and our various tyre service options.

Keeping your family and fleet safely on the road (and fields!),

Kevin Wood

0 Truck tyres Brisbane – Tyre management strategies that slash costs

Truck tyres Brisbane – how to reduce fleet operating costs

As a fleet manager, you’ll understand how, whatever the economy is doing, it’s imperative to keep costs to a minimum. Fuel, insurance and labour costs are perhaps the most visible areas for savings to be made, but can you afford to overlook the cost of truck tyres in Brisbane and beyond?

Here, I look at how maintaining control of your truck tyres impacts fleet operating expenses, and what strategies a fleet manager can use to reduce costs.

The fleet market in Australia is alive and kicking

In its state of the Australian Commercial Fleet Market in 2016 report, Automotive Fleet noted that the fleet market was still growing despite some severe conditions in the major markets:

• Fleet sizes in Australia range from fewer than 20 to more than 1,000 vehicles
• Key commercial fleet segments are:
  • mining and construction;
  • telecoms and utilities;
  • daily rental;
  • Governmental (Federal and local).
• SUV sales boomed in 2015, with the segment making up 35% of the market, while light commercial vehicles accounted for 17%.

The major challenge for commercial fleet managers is the total cost of ownership.

Truck tyres Brisbane are assets, not consumable products

Without truck tyres, your commercial fleet in Queensland could not operate. Many fleet managers treat truck tyres as no more than consumable products. If they were regarded as financial assets and selected and managed with the same care as the trucks and trailers to which they are fitted, then their life would be prolonged with costs of repair and replacement falling. With some new tyres costing thousands (or even tens of thousands) of dollars, this strategy makes huge financial sense − especially when you consider that tyres are the third biggest running cost for most commercial fleets.

I’m not suggesting you do what the operators of New Acland Coal Mine did following the global tyre shortage of 2008 (its stockpile of 250 tyres worth more than $7 million has become something of a tourist attraction), but with sensible tyre management initiatives you could see a sizeable positive impact on your operating costs.

A simple strategy for managing your fleet’s truck tyres Brisbane

The 6-step tyre check regime that increases the life of a mining company’s tyres are as follows:

1. Check tyres on a daily basis
2. Look for bubbling or blistering, cuts, or rocks stuck in the tread
3. Signs of uneven wear could be a sign of a worn shock absorber or misalignment, for example
4. Check rims and rim components
5. Never mismatch rim components
6. Finally, ensure that all your tyre maintenance technicians are suitably trained and qualified

A few days later, the manager of a commercial fleet here in Brisbane (and one of our customers) told me of the strategy he uses to keep a lid on truck tyre costs. He operates a cradle-to-grave truck tyre management process, which includes the inspection and maintenance check above. Since putting this plan into action, tyre life is up and associated tyre costs have fallen.

The 7-step fleet tyre management strategy that cuts costs

Step 1: Purchase the best tyres that fit the purpose required

Whatever they are needed for, buy the best tyres that you can afford for the need. A little extra spending now is usually rewarded during the life of the tyre. Decisions about brand and tyre type should be reviewed regularly, and selected with consideration of the application, terrain and weather.

Step 2: Track truck tyres from day one

It is essential. Modern technology, such as advanced computer software and tyre pressure monitoring systems, has improved tracking effectiveness. However, if such equipment isn’t within the scope of your budget, you can still instigate a programme that measures the effectiveness of tyre brand and maintenance procedures, for example. Pen and paper and excel spreadsheets are incredibly powerful tools themselves.

Some fleet management systems measure individual tyre performance by wheel position – this helps to decide on rotation requirements.

Step 3: Delegate responsibilities

Before setting tyre maintenance policies and procedures, the fleet manager should delegate responsibility for all tasks. For example, will tyre pressure checks be the drivers’ responsibility, or duty for the maintenance section?

Step 4: Create a tyre maintenance policy and set out procedure

Set a timetable for tyre inspection, and establish a system for measurement and recording. Training may have to be given, and there will need to be appropriate tools for recording and communicating information. Checks and maintenance will include:

• Truck tyre pressures
• Tyre damage
• Tyre rotation and alignment

Step 5: Regular tyre cleaning

When dirt builds up on tyres, they become more susceptible to premature wear and tear. Oil, fuel, and other contaminants can deteriorate truck tyre rubber. Regular cleaning with a mix of detergent in warm water, combined with the removal of debris and objects such as nails, will help to prolong tyre life and increase tyre effectiveness.

Step 6: Decide on a tyre replacement and buying policy

You’ll need to decide how, where, and when you will replace your truck tyres and replenish your stock. Will tyres be re-treaded, and if so, at what point?

Step 7: Analyse why tyres have been scrapped

Whenever a tyre is discarded, examine it and its history (from your tracking programme) to discover why it needs scrapping. It will help you to figure out why your tyres are lasting for only the time they are, and put in place new procedures to prolong their life. It may be that a particular vehicle or driver contributes to shorter tyre life.

Cost-effective safety

As a fleet manager, you’ll be able to reduce costs by controlling all the factors within your control:

• Buy the best tyres within your budget for the intended application
• Remember the right tyre will aid performance, driveability and fuel consumption
• Monitor tyre maintenance as well as truck and engine inspections and repairs
• Make sure your drivers and maintenance staff get some training
• Track tyre performance, you’ll recognise shortfalls in maintenance programmes more easily and faster, as well as discover which tyres and treads provide your commercial fleet with the best performance, and your best financial returns.

With the efficiency gains your fleet makes: costs reduce and profits increase. Making your fleet more competitive so you can invest and improve your fleet performance elsewhere.

Call us today on 3333 5510, we’re happy to discuss your fleet requirements and how we can help you get the best from your truck tyres.

Cheers,

Kevin Wood

0 Brisbane Tyres – How to Change a Car Tyre after a Blowout

Brisbane Tyres – The how, why, and what of tyre blowouts

The chances are that you’ll never suffer a blowout; but if you do, be prepared for a harrowing experience.

In this article you’ll learn:

• What causes a blowout
• What it feels like to have a tyre blowout
• How to handle the car and come to a safe stop if you have a tyre blowout
• How to change a tyre on a car after a blowout
• How to prevent tyre blowouts

Why do blowouts happen on car tyres?

A tyre will only blow out if it is already failing in some way. Most commonly this will be because of a fracture or split in the tyre or one of its components, or a separation of the tyre components. If the tyre is damaged or worn, subjecting it to excessive stress could then cause the blowout – perhaps because of subjecting it to too much weight, driving too fast, or over-inflation.

Will a tyre blow out straight away?

Even if you over-inflate a tyre or ask it to carry too much weight, it’s unlikely to burst suddenly. It will probably take an extra tyre trauma to make it blow. This might be hitting a rock on the road, or bumping over a pothole, or perhaps kerbing the tyre while driving or parking. In the ordinary course of events, a tyre will deal with all of these with ease. When the tyre’s already damaged is when the chances of a blowout are increased.

Tyres are built to be resilient

Tyre manufacturers understand that we’re all human, and know that we’ll make mistakes when inflating tyres and loading cars.

On the tyre wall, you’ll notice a bunch of numbers. One of these indicates the maximum pressure. Let’s say that it states that you shouldn’t inflate to more than 35 psi. If you inflate to a pressure of 36 or 37 psi, it’s not going to blow. That’s a good thing because tyre pressure gauges in service stations are notoriously inaccurate.

Similarly, if you overload your car by a little bit, the car may sit a little lower than it should, but this won’t cause your tyre to blow.

When developing and testing tyres, manufacturers deliberately build in a margin of error. They test rims and flanges, overinflate tyres, and puncture tyres in the tread with a plunger to simulate a protruding bolt or nail.

In other words, tyres are resilient. But they’re not infallible. They do occasionally fail, especially if they have been mistreated or poorly maintained. That’s when you’re most likely to have a blowout.

How do you know you’ve got a blowout?

A blowout usually happens when travelling at speed, and the immediate effect is that your car will start slowing down and the steering will pull either to the left or right. The pull can be violent, almost ripping the steering wheel from your grip.

How to bring the car to a safe standstill

You’ll want to avoid swerving into a neighbouring lane, which can be difficult to do when taken by surprise. Swerve into another lane, and you could hit an oncoming vehicle or cause an accident with a vehicle travelling in the same direction. So you need to take action to avoid departing your lane.

You could also grind to halt, especially if you brake incorrectly, and cause a car from behind to slam into you.

To avoid both these outcomes, you’ll need to do two things:

1. First, keep your foot on the accelerator. This is easier said than done because your natural instinct will be to stop the car as quickly as possible. Keeping your foot on the accelerator will ensure you continue to move forward.
2. Second, steer the opposite way to the direction of your swerve. You need to drive gently, and not yank the steering wheel in the opposite direction to the swerve. This will correct the swerve and set the car straight.

Now that you have the car under control, you can steer to the shoulder taking normal driving precautions.

How to change a tyre after a blowout

Now that you’re safely on the side of the road, you can change your flat tyre. Put out your warning triangle if you have one, and use hazard lights to warn other road users of your presence. Now that you and other road users are safe, follow these instructions to change your tyre:

1. Remove the spare wheel from your boot, together with the jack and wrench.
2. Loosen the wheel nuts, without removing them completely.
3. Place the jack under the chassis and raise the car slowly.
4. Remove the wheel nuts.
5. Remove the wheel, and place to one side.
6. Place the replacement wheel in the vacant wheel space, and tighten the nuts (but not entirely).
7. Lower the car to the road, put the jack to one side, and tighten the wheel nuts thoroughly.
8. Check for safety.
9. Put your tools away, and place the wheel with the faulty tyre in the boot.

Some cars have emergency spare wheels, with tyres that are only designed to travel a short distance of around 50 kilometres. In this case, drive to the nearest tyre shop to get a new tyre fitted as quickly as possible.

As soon as you are home (or when it is practical to do so) call us here at Darra. Bring your car in, and we’ll check all your tyres, including the spare, to make certain that they’re in good shape and don’t need replacing.

If you don’t want a tyre blowout, here’s what to do

In almost every single blowout case I’ve seen, the blowout could have been aided by taking a few simple precautions. Of course, these include driving sensibly for different road conditions, but equally as important is how you treat your tyres:

1. Don’t overinflate your tyres. The tyre will have a maximum pressure stamped on it, but this is not necessarily the maximum you should inflate to. Every car has its own recommended tyre pressures. These are usually found on a label on the inside pillar of the driver’s door.
2. Check your tyre pressures at least once a month – the two minutes it takes could save your life. There are safety risks if you get your tyre pressure wrong.
3. Save your life and your money by proper tyre rotation. Tyre rotation is integral to ensuring even wear and tear, helping your tyres perform better and last longer.
4. Never buy fake tyres. You may save a few dollars, but you will certainly risk your life and the lives of passengers and other road users. (See our article titled How to make sure you don’t buy fake tyres, for tips that could save your life.)
5. Employ driving techniques that will help your car tyres last longer.

Finally, get an annual tyre check. Bring your car to our Darra Tyres shop, and we’ll check your tyres, wheel alignment, and balance. Our job is to make sure you and your passengers are safe on the roads.

Contact Darra Tyres today on (07) 3333 5510. We’re here to serve.

Cheers,

Kevin Wood