OCTOBER 2023 AFTERMARKET 51 www.aftermarketonline.net proportion of wheel alignment sales were for laser alignment system, representing 41% recorded. CCD and camera system represented 35% and image/3D technology representing 24%. However, as we enter Q4 of 2023, will increased demand for sophisticated wheel alignment services and proven improvements in 3D technology increase sales proportions for these more advanced solutions? “Cost will always be a major consideration when it comes to equipment choice, as the technology advances, typically the costs rise. Weighing up and calculating a likely return on investment will help ensure your decision is the right one. With so many manufacturers and models of wheel alignment systems available on the market, reach out to wheel alignment specialists that can help advise on the right system to your needs.” Julia added: “Straightset are uniquely positioned to offer genuine choice and flexibility to our customers when it comes to wheel alignment technology. With reliable laser and CCD technology from Supertracker, to the latest innovative Q.Lign 3D technology from Beissbarth, Straightset can help navigate the choices and find the right wheel alignment solution for your needs, with reliable aftercare support.” For more information, visit: www.straightset.co.uk Absolute precision Commenting on how MAHA UK’s DUO CM scissor lift can help when working on wheel and tyre-related jobs, MAHA UK Workshop Equipment Specialist Louis Tunmore said: “The DUO CM is available in either 4.2 tonne or 5.5 tonne versions, which means they’re capable of lifting those respective weights. Both are delivered in grey as standard, but customers are able to choose an alternative colour scheme to either complement their own livery or comply with a manufacturer’s dealership CI requirements.” He continued: “MAHA UK will liaise with its customers to discuss what other requirements they may have and if the workshop equipment supplier can fulfil them. Typically, we’ll specify a wheel-free jack, which will lift all four wheels off the platform simultaneously. This would allow a technician to lower a vehicle onto sliding plates and turnplates without any load in its suspension components. A technician could also lower a vehicle onto a set of cornerweight scales, to conduct a precise set-up of the vehicle they’re working on, particularly useful for racing cars. We also advise installing LED illumination for under a vehicle, so a technician can find components without wearing a head torch, holding a torch or placing a lamp under a vehicle – it helps both safety and efficiency. Mechanical locks also ensure a vehicle is secured into an exactly level position – absolute precision.” Louis added: “For an in-ground installation specifically, there is the option of automatic roll-off protection. Instead of having flaps at the end of a lift that hinge up as it comes out of the ground, the lift has an automatic vertical rising end-stop that comes up. When a lift goes all the way down, the plate lowers, and a vehicle can roll on and off. This feature enables the entire length of the platform to be utilised.” For more information, visit: www.maha.co.uk Driving tyre sales Of course, to be fitting tyres, you need a broad stock of tyres, and you need to be looking to take advantage of the market as it shifts through the seasons. Offering tips on how to drive tyre sales through the year, and particularly in the winter months, Bridgestone’s Consumer Sales Director Brett Emerson said: “First, make sure you have the correct tyre available. While this might sound like we’re stating the obvious, there’s huge potential from all-season products, which are a brilliant option for so many motorists at this time of year. An all-season tyre, such as our Turanza All Season 6, is still a hidden secret for some depots.” Brett continued: “Next, offer free tyre checks. We know that we’re hardly reinventing the wheel by advocating these, but for the sake of a few minutes, they can be worth their weight in gold. A visual tyre check can be done in a matter of minutes at no cost, and by providing it as a free offer, it generates huge levels of trust and transparency. A typical check might not lead to business immediately, as we’d like to think that the tyres will be in good working order, but it will give you a much better chance of securing business next time, when tread levels have dropped to their legal limit or the customer has sustained a puncture.” Concluding, Brett said: “Finally, know your market, and don’t sell on price alone. Are you stocking the top selling tyres across the UK? It’s amazing how many garages don’t stop all of or top 10 sellers, leading to some customers buying them from somewhere else. “The best managers and customer-facing staff recommend and sell premium products, having gained an understanding of what tyres motorists require for their specific driving needs. Many garages sell budget and midrange alternatives because the see it as the easiest thing to do, but there is more to a premium tyre than meets the eye, and more relevant recommendations can be given on premium products, which would actually offer significant margins at the same time.” For more information, visit: www.bridgestone.co.uk Wheel bearing hub technology is developing at a rapid pace ” Below: Hofmann Megaplan megamount 813XL Racing Tyre Changer
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