Tyre supplier sees safe returns using automated tread depth reader
Stone Tyres, the car tyre and wheel alignment specialist, is using a TreadReader DriveOver tyre measurement system which, says the company, is driving up sales and ensuring maximum safety and value for its customers.
Based in St Helens, Merseyside, Stone Tyres provides a wide range of budget, mid-range and premium tyres for cars, 4x4s and vans up to 3.5 tonnes. The company is known for its responsive service and free lifetime tyre repair on every tyre fitted, budget, mid-range or premium, a unique offering in the St Helens area.
“With such a high throughput of vehicles, we decided to invest in the Treadreader DriveOver to reduce manual input and increase tyre measurement accuracy,” says Director, John Stone. “We were the first independent tyre supplier in Europe to fit the system and over the last five years its efficiency has made it seem like an extra member of staff. Indeed, the system has more than paid for itself with an ROI of around 3 years!”
According to John, the DriveOver not only provides 100% accuracy with a full report for each tyre but also reveals where wheels are out of alignment. This, says John Stone, enables the company to offer an alignment service - which is good for driver safety and an added commercial benefit.
“The DriveOver measures each tyre tread depth across its full width, as the vehicle passes over the ramp,” explains John. “A pressure switch automatically triggers the sensors and a laser system captures the tyre data. This is then transferred to the TreadReader management system and displayed in a 3D render of the actual tyre tread, with automated comments on tyre condition and simple tread depth summary with red, green and amber colours to discuss with customers.
“Accurate and easily readable info’ is shown to the customer to provide full transparency and reassurance regarding recommended tyre work or replacement,” says John. “Plus of course, the graphic readouts tell us, and the customer, when a wheel needs balancing or a vehicle requires aligning.”
John added, “The TreadReader system includes automated air-powered shutters and cleaning features that protects the unit from debris and leaves, meaning that physical maintenance by our team is minimal.”
According to TreadReader, each 3D scan uses up to 400,000 measurement points with accuracy to within 0.2mm. Also by scanning the full width of the tyre and 50-60mm around it, the system achieves a level of accuracy and consistency far greater than conventional analogue and digital gauges, or competitor systems which only take a single-line scan.
DriveOver is suitable for all workshops, car dealers and tyre suppliers with a larger footprint or drive-through facility. Plus, advises TreadReader, the DriveOver ramp is surface mounted and requires no groundworks.
Stone Tyres carry over 2000 new tyres in stock, enabling same day fitting. The company also provides TPMS checks, tyre repairs, tyre rotation, winter checks and operates a mobile tyre fitting service under the brand Gorilla Tyres, across the North-West.