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All You Need to Know About Redback

Garage equipment is expensive. Tyre changers, wheel balancers, lifts… you name it, it costs a lot to invest in any of the crucial equipment needed to operate a garage. But there are brands out there that continue to challenge the norm and offer more for less. One of those brands is Redback, which has become the industry’s go-to budget equipment supplier here in the UK.

Redback products first hit the market back in 2005, and have since established themselves as the ideal solution for lower volume users or ‘first-timers’. Today, the factory boasts 870 employees and four production facilities spanning 160,000 square metres. These factories produce between 6,000 and 8,000 products every month and export to 99 countries, of which the UK is (we are proud to say) one of the most successful.

Want to learn more about the brand and what it has to offer? That’s exactly what we’re about to cover.

A proven track record

Redback isn’t just about low prices. It invests heavily in research and development, continually revising its products to ensure they deliver maximum bang for your buck. With a team of over 120 R&D specialists, Redback is serious about the quality of its products.

In 2019, it introduced an upgraded range packed full of new features; the 202 tyre changer featured an improved clamping range, for example, allowing it to support rims up to 24” in diameter.

At Tyre Bay Direct, we’ve stocked Redback products for over a decade now and have had tonnes of positive feedback from customers.

Unbeatable value

No other manufacturer offers such a winning blend of quality, features and affordability. With Redback, you don’t have to forego advanced features; the brand still produces fully automatic tyre changers and two-post lifts with electric locks, for example.

And, although its machinery isn’t as tough and sophisticated as the likes of Atlas Platinum and Hofmann Megaplan, it still stands the test of time. Redback products are ideal for less frequent use. Say you want to begin offering tyre changing and wheel balancing services, but it’s not something you anticipate being your bread and butter. Redback equipment would be the perfect solution.

Comprehensive range

Redback’s range of products is just as vast as many higher-end brands. Its product line ranges from extremely affordable, entry-level models to more advanced, full-featured versions, with tyre changers, wheel balancers, two-post and scissor lifts available.

Order your Redback garage equipment today

In summary, Redback is the nation’s go-to budget garage equipment supplier for a reason. Well, several. Its products are stout, effective and represent exceptional value – and they’re easy to get hold of! We stock the full range here at Tyre Bay Direct, with Pay in 3 available to help you spread out the cost of your order.

Explore the full line up of Redback garage equipment online and place your order today.

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Do electric cars need special tyres?

Thinking of buying an electric car for the first time, or expecting to work on some soon? You might be wondering what kind of rubber they need. Are EV-specific tyres a thing, or can you get away with cheaper brands? To help you decide what to choose for your own car (and how to advise customers), we’re taking a closer look at the subject in this guide.

Not essential, but…

EVs can be fitted with regular tyres, just like a petrol or diesel car, provided they match the OE dimensions.

However, because EVs run so quietly – and because they typically have lower ranges than ICE cars – choosing the right tyre is crucial. They’re also heavier than petrol and diesel models generally, so load ratings become an important consideration.

According to industry experts TyreSafe, choosing the wrong type of tyre could result in reduced range, unpleasant cabin noise, increased wear and – if the load rating isn’t up to scratch – potential failure.

The rubber compound is crucial too, as EVs develop maximum torque from idle. As a result, the tyres need to be both hard-wearing and provide adequate grip – a tricky combination to crack for manufacturers.

So, although it’s not a strict requirement to choose an ‘EV-specific’ tyre, it’s highly recommended that you do so.

The experts’ view

“Tyres are an extremely sophisticated piece of technology, which we all too commonly take for granted,” says TyreSafe Chair Stuart Jackson.

“However, drivers of electric vehicles must be aware of how different they could be to those on other cars, and when it’s time to replace the original tyres, owners need to ensure they are buying the right specification.

“Choosing a like-for-like tyre will allow EV owners to enjoy the full benefit of the electric car revolution and reduce the risks of an incident.”

Tyre changing equipment online

If you’re in the trade and need new tyre changing equipment for your workshop, we’ve got you covered here at Tyre Bay Direct. Browse our full range today and order online!

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Highway code rules

Rules on Self-Driving Vehicles Enter Highway Code

New ground was broken on 1st July when rules relating to self-driving vehicles entered the Highway Code for the first time.

 

Intended to anticipate the availability of level 3, 4 and 5 ‘autonomous’ vehicles – which could become commercially available as early as next year – the new rules also have their own section.

 

Currently, only ‘level 2’ self-driving vehicles are available here in the UK. Tesla’s Autopilot system falls into this category, as it’s only able to take control of the car in specific circumstances. It currently isn’t advanced enough to allow the driver to take their eyes off the road safely.

High Way Code

Although this new breed of autonomous vehicle will be more advanced and capable of handling a variety of situations itself, the Highway Code still states that motorists must be ‘ready to resume control in a timely way if they are prompted to.’

 

It does, however, somewhat controversially stipulate that motorists are allowed to look at built-in screens displaying non-driving-related information or content (like films or videos) while their vehicles are moving.

 

Commenting on the initial announcement earlier this year, Transport Minister Trudy Harrison said: “This is a major milestone in our safe introduction of self-driving vehicles, which will revolutionise the way we travel, making our future journeys greener, safer and more reliable.

 

“This exciting technology is developing at pace right here in Great Britain and we’re ensuring we have strong foundations in place for drivers when it takes to our roads.

 

“In doing so, we can help improve travel for all while boosting economic growth across the nation and securing Britain’s place as a global science superpower.”

 

Reacting to the changes, RAC’s head of policy Nicholas Lyes said: “Automated vehicle technology has the potential to make our roads safer by eradicating driver-induced errors – a cause of a great many collisions – and could also make lengthier trips a more enjoyable and less tiring experience.

 

“While we’re still some way off truly ‘self-driving’ cars, the journey to get there begins with driver assistance technologies such as automated lane keeping systems, as they’re only focussed on one element of driving.

 

“It’s vital the Highway Code changes covering automated vehicle technology are crystal clear, setting out exactly what drivers can and can’t do when certain features are engaged otherwise there’s a very real risk that drivers will be confused.

 

“This itself could lead to avoidable road traffic collisions – especially if a driver hasn’t taken back control of the vehicle after they’ve been told to. Many people will be highly sceptical and may not trust their vehicles to do some of the driving for them. And even if they’re permitted to take their eyes off the road, just how many drivers will actually choose to, and feel safe doing so?”

 

Garage equipment online

Whatever your garage needs, from lifts and tyre changing equipment to hand tools, we have it in stock and ready to go at Tyre Bay Direct. View our vast range of garage equipment online and order today.

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What are the different types of vehicle lift?

Buying a lift can be a minefield! Single post, 2 post, 4 post, scissor, MOT / ATL, baseless, with base, for tyre work, especially for bodywork, it can become quite a specialist subject.

If you’re looking to invest in a new lift for your workshop, the options can be quite overwhelming so, to help you decide which one to choose for your garage, we’re going to run through some of the key features of each design in this handy guide. First up, two post lifts…

Two post lifts

This is the most common type of vehicle lift, and for a good reason. Two post lifts are versatile, reasonably space-efficient, durable, convenient and cost effective – they pretty much have it all.

Although they’re not as substantial as four post lifts, they can still lift heavier vehicles with ease. If you plan to work on commercial vehicles or trucks, it might be comforting to know that our Atlas ATP10 two post lift has an impressive five-tonne capacity – plenty for most vehicles you’re likely to encounter.

Because they lift vehicles up at the sides, using their jacking points, every mechanical component can be removed and reinstalled on a two post lift. So, whether you’re doing a simple oil change or a full-blown underbody restoration, a two post lift is an essential tool to have in your arsenal.

And, while we’re at it, there’s a common misconception that you cannot offer wheel alignment services unless you have a four post alignment lift. Not true – there are a number of wheel alignment solutions that can be used with two post lifts.

Four post lifts

Take your choice of wheel alignment versions, MOT / ATL versions, Dual Revenue versions (a combination of MOT and alignment in one lift) and straightforward flat platform models for general service work. There’s a huge variety of four-posters which can then be either recessed or surface mounted depending on your preference.

Because all four wheels of the car are supported, you won’t be able to access and remove every component like you can with a two post lift. However, four-posters are extremely safe and easy to use, making them ideal for tasks like exhaust repairs, inspections and servicing. The addition of a jacking beam provides the ability to lift the front or rear off the platform, giving access brakes and suspension.

Scissor lifts

From the popular tyre service or mid-rise, wheel-free scissor lift through to oversized, long-platform scissors with integral auxiliary lifters for wheel-free application, scissor lifts cover a multitude of functions.

If space is really at a premium in your workshop, a scissor lift could be the ideal solution. Even if it’s not, the absence of columns associated with the traditional 4 post lift creates a ‘clean and clinical’ environment. Full height and mid-rise versions are available.

They’re easy to use too, and some models are even portable – allowing you to move them around the workshop with ease.

Which is right for me?

There is no one ‘best’ type of vehicle lift – buying one is all about choosing one that is right for you. Carefully consider the weight capacity and lifting height you require, how much space you have to play with and how much money you have to spend – and don’t forget to take into account the type of work you plan to use the lift for.

At Tyre Bay Direct, you’ll find a variety of vehicle lifts to suit your needs and budget. Explore the full selection and order yours online today.

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Garages planning to increase prices

57% of Garages Plan to Put Prices Up, Study Finds

A study by WhoCanFixMyCar has found that over half of the nation’s garages are planning to increase their prices, adding further fuel to the ongoing cost of living crisis.

Over 15,000 businesses responded to the survey, from mobile mechanics through to independent garages and manufacturer-owned dealerships.

The survey also asked for the reasons behind the planned price increases – a question which received the following responses:

  • 89% of garages said that the cost of living crisis was the only reason why they planned to put prices up
  • 7% said that the price of parts was the main driving factor
  • More than 50% said that both had contributed

Many of the garages surveyed still weren’t sure what to do, though; 25% said they hadn’t decided yet whether to put their prices up or not, meaning the 57% headline figure could grow substantially if the cost of living crisis (and parts prices) fail to settle down.

Founder of WhoCanFixMyCar, Al Preston, said: “Naturally, older vehicles tend to need more repairs, so with prices set to rise over the coming months, drivers should consider booking their cars in for essential work sooner rather than later, as they could find themselves paying considerably more if they wait.

“The supply chain is also under unprecedented pressure, so access to certain components may also become increasingly difficult.”

Garage equipment online

Looking to kit your garage out with new equipment or replace a tired tyre machine? At Tyre Bay Direct, you’ll find thousands of products from top brands to suit all budgets. From amazing value Redback products to cream of the crop machines from the likes of Atlas Platinum, everything is available to order online – and you can even use PayPal Pay in 3 to spread out the cost. Explore our range of garage equipment online today.