“Tyres are a unique and necessary invention for any form of transportation. Tyres are an essential component that help you get from place to place. Flat tyres disrupt plans, while inferior tyres or damaged wheels impact your vehicle’s control and performance. While the average person may not think about their car’s tyres unless there’s an issue, or something goes wrong, they can be a fascinating topic of discussion.

Chris Lett, Australian Tyre expert, and owner of Branigans Tyres, is happy to talk tyres and blows the minds of readers with some intriguing tyre statistics and facts.

Air-filled or pneumatic tyres are used on many types of vehicles, including cars, bicycles, motorcycles, buses, trucks, heavy equipment and aircraft. Pneumatic tyres provide a flexible cushion that absorbs shock as the tyre rolls over rough surfaces. John Boyd Dunlop, an Irish inventor, invented the pneumatic tyre in 1888 primarily for his child’s tricycle. The invention caught on quickly and soon bicycles all over the world were being fitted with Dunlop’s pneumatic tyres.  However, Dunlop was unaware that the pneumatic tyre had in fact been patented 43 years earlier, in 1846, by Robert William Thomson, a Scottish inventor.

Winter tyres were invented in the mid 1930’s in Nokia, Finland to combat the harsh weather prevalent in Nordic countries. Winter tyres have a different tread pattern that features wider and deeper grooves than summer tyres. They also contain a larger amount of natural rubber and silica in the compound that doesn’t harden as much as the synthetic rubber found in summer tyres when the temperatures drop.

White tyres – In the early days, tyre manufacturers used zinc oxide as an addition to the tyre rubber for strength, that produced the side effect of turning tyres white. After 1900, carbon black was used to increase the longevity and durability of the tyre. This addition also changed the tyre colour to black.

Modern tyres are made up of a number of materials including, steel, rubber, kevlar and nylon. Tyres also consist of metals like titanium and cobalt to help the compound bond to the steel belts. Silica and saline are also used to help enhance performance. Citrus oil and other “green” materials are also used.

The World’s Largest Tyre was built as a Uniroyal promotional icon. It’s a ‘car tyre’ that stands 24.4 metres tall and weighs 12 tons. It was originally built as a giant Ferris wheel at the 1964-65 New York World Fair. After the fair, it was transported to Detroit Motor Town.

“Tyres are a unique invention and there are many interesting facts about them but perhaps the most surprising fact about tyres is that LEGO is the world’s largest tyre manufacturer,” says Lett.

 LEGO, renowned toy manufacturing company, holds the coveted title of being the world’s largest tyre manufacturer, producing over 320 million mini tyres each year. This is over 50 per cent more than any other tyre company worldwide.

Branigans Tyres has well-established workshops in Burleigh Heads and Southport in the Gold Coast region. Check out their full range of services or current featured promotions. Branigans award-winning affordable tyre subscriptions package starts at $7.97 and helps motorists budget for their ongoing tyre needs.

Vehicle owners are encouraged to drive in at their convenience as no pre-bookings or appointments are required. The branches are Burleigh Heads: (07) 5535 2660 situated at 13 Flagstone Drive or Southport: (07) 5591 8633 located at 1/277 Southport-Nerang Rd.

Written and syndicated by YDMA Group.

In the tyre industry, carbon black is used to strengthen and colour rubber. Made from a fine carbon powder produced from the incomplete combustion of heavy petroleum products, carbon black is used to reinforce tyres, making them more resistant against ultraviolet rays and prolonging their life span.

Chris Lett, Australian Tyre Recycler, and owner of Branigans Tyres, explains the vital role carbon black has played in the production of tyres.

Historically, the use of carbon black, as black pigment for paints and inks dates back to early civilisation. With the invention of book printing, in the fifteenth century, the demand for strong black pigment increased. Lamp black, a permanent and opaque pigment, was traditionally used for these colouring purposes.

In the first manufacturing processes of lamp black, wood was burnt under low air supply, and the smoke passed into a cone-like soot chamber where the carbon black settled on the walls of metal, wool, or linen. This was known as the channel black process. The charred wood was then sold as charcoal.

Since the 1950s, the channel black process has been replaced in the main by the furnace black process. Nearly all carbon black used in today’s tyres is produced by the furnace black process. Modern tyres are composed of several different rubber compounds, each containing special elastomers – elastic materials that retain their shape, after distortion – and special carbon black grades are needed for peak performance.

“Apart from the stabilising of chemical compounds within rubber, carbon black provides other benefits,” says Lett. “For example, carbon black improves the longevity of a tyre. Tyres can heat, particularly around the tread and belt areas. Should the heat become trapped, and not dispersed, the tyres can overheat and cause wear-and-tear. Luckily, carbon black is proven to help control the temperature of the tyres which can prolong the life of the tyre,” adds Lett.

Carbon black also prevents tyre damage from harsh Ultraviolet (UV) rays. Similar to leaving rubber bands or an eraser out in the harsh sun, rubber tires made without carbon black, can be prone to hardening, and will deteriorate due to the harsh UV rays from the sun, ultimately, decreasing the performance of a tyre. Simply put, carbon black deters the hardening of the tyres.

“Carbon black plays a huge role when it comes to tyre strength, performance, and durability,” says Lett. “Tyres are the most critical part of a vehicle, so, keep in mind that the sturdier and stronger the tyre, the smoother and safer the drive,” says Lett.

Branigans Tyres has well-established workshops in Burleigh Heads and Southport in the Gold Coast region. Check out their full range of services or current featured promotions. Branigans award-winning affordable tyre subscriptions package starts at $7.97 and helps motorists budget for their ongoing tyre needs.

Vehicle owners are encouraged to drive in at their convenience as no pre-bookings or appointments are required. The branches are Burleigh Heads: (07) 5535 2660 situated at 13 Flagstone Drive or Southport: (07) 5591 8633 located at 1/277 Southport-Nerang Rd.

Written and syndicated by YDMA Group.

As the year comes to a close, families are preparing to hit the roads and bask in the holiday season fun. With the open road ahead, it is paramount that road users anticipate the unexpected while on the roads. A brief, yet comprehensive tyre inspection will definitely be of assistance and could prevent on-road interruptions.

“Preparing for a road trip provides a great level of excitement and fun,” says Chris Lett, Australian tyre recycler, and owner of Branigans Tyres. “Road users should undertake a good vehicle check-up well before the trip,” Lett adds. Follow his tips below to ensure you are holiday ready!

Check the state of your tyres. The tyre experts at Branigans Tyres Burleigh Heads or Southport branches are always happy to assist you and ensure your tyres are in A1 condition. To be legal, the tyre tread depth should be a minimum of 1.6mm. Tyre pressure should be checked and meet the requirements of the vehicle’s manufacturer.

Check the state of your spare tyre and ensure it is also in good condition and not showing signs of wear and tear. Also check that you have the necessary tools to change a tyre should you find yourself in that position.

Tyre rotations should also be done before trips to attain more uniform wear on the tyres and extend the life of them. Most manufacturers recommend tyre rotation at approximately every 8,000 – 13,000 kilometres. However, if you identify uneven wear, imbalance or misalignment on one or more of the tyres before the recommended kilometerage, ensure you undertake a tyre rotation as soon as possible.

Chris Lett adds a few other tips to ensure you are ready for that holiday trip. “Don’t overload the car, check the load capacity of your vehicle. Understanding the vehicle’s maximum load capacity is important. It is fun to pack everything desired to make the holidays a memorable experience, but keep in mind that for every 90kg of additional weight, fuel economy can be reduced by 0.42 km per litre. This can drastically affect the life span of the vehicle’s tyres. Pack only what is needed, and anything excessive will have to be left at home,” says Lett.

Lastly, never drive while tired, and take regular rest breaks on long journeys,” says Lett.  “Keep a bottle of water and a couple of snacks handy to ensure you are not dehydrated or hungry while driving. There are lots of roadside rest areas in all Australian states, and often free refreshments are offered, especially in the holiday season,” adds Lett.

At Branigans Tyres, Chris Lett and his team ‘go green’ and are experts in the recycled tyre business. Branigans Tyres has well-established workshops in Burleigh Heads and Southport in the Gold Coast region. Check out their full range of services or current featured promotions. Branigans award-winning affordable tyre subscriptions package start at $7.97 and help motorists budget for their ongoing tyre needs.

Vehicle owners are encouraged to drive in at their convenience as no pre-bookings or appointments are required. Branches are situated at 13 Flagstone Drive, Burleigh Heads, contact number (07) 5535 2660 or 1/277 Southport-Nerang Rd, Southport contact number, (07) 5591 8633.

Written and Syndicated by: YDMA News

Vehicle brakes provide a great deal of control and security for all vehicle owners. They perform the extraordinary role of keeping you safe and possibly saving your life on the road. It’s time they deserved the respect and break they need!

From emergency stops, to sharp turns, brakes are at the forefront of life-threatening preventions and uncertainties that accompany the on-road experience. “Vehicle owners should understand how their brakes work and how they can be maintained and even improved,” says Chris Lett, Australian tyre recycler and owner of Branigans Tyres. He discusses major ways in which vehicle owners can improve their brake’s performance.

Fitting new brake pads: Brake performance and overall safety can be improved by fitting new brake pads,” says Lett. “This should be done at least once a year or more often if covering more than the average kilometres a year,” he adds.

Upgrading the brake kit: Large brake kits are both the fastest and best ways to improve the braking performance. “The heat takes slightly longer to accumulate on larger disc surfaces, at the same time helping them cool down much faster,” says Lett. “Through cross-drilled and well-ventilated discs, the cooling down process is more effective,” adds Lett.

Keeping the brakes cool: Should new brake pads overheat, this can alter the underlying structure of the brake pad material. “Until brakes are fully bedded down, vehicle owners should prevent heavy braking that could lead to potential overheating. This can include any circumstances, from towing heavy loads, to stopping immediately after high speeds,” says Lett.

Braking properly and often: More braking is better than less, and braking gently is better than heavy braking overall. “For the first 300km, each time the brake pads establish contact with the discs, it increases the contact area surface between the two parts, allowing better braking in the future. Therefore, braking more often and lightly is recommended for the first 300km, after the new pads have been fitted,” says Lett. “Driving slower provides vehicle owners with an opportunity to brake lightly. Braking faster and harder wears out the brakes more quickly. Another precautionary measure is to keep an ideal distance between vehicles, which will also provide you with quicker reaction time, and prevent the unnecessary slamming of the brakes,” adds Lett.

Maintaining the condition of the brakes: A routine maintenance check up should be done every year. At Branigans Tyres, experts will check the condition of the brake pads, the disc and the brake fluid and give you peace of mind.

At Branigans Tyres, Chris Lett and his team ‘go green’ and are experts in the recycled tyre business. Branigans Tyres has well-established workshops in Burleigh Heads and Southport in the Gold Coast region. Check out their full range of services or current featured promotions. Branigans award-winning affordable tyre subscriptions package start at $7.97 and help motorists budget for their ongoing tyre needs.

Vehicle owners are encouraged to drive in at their convenience as no pre-bookings or appointments are required. Branches are situated at 13 Flagstone Drive, Burleigh Heads, contact number (07) 5535 2660 or 1/277 Southport-Nerang Rd, Southport contact number, (07) 5591 8633.

Written and Syndicated by: YDMA News

Torque is basically the unit of measurement for the twisting force that’s applied to a wheel nut. Wheel nuts are torqued for each wheel by mechanics to ensure that they meet the vehicle manufacturer’s standards when fitting the wheel for the first time. However, a second check-up is also necessary.

Chris Lett, Australian tyre recycler and owner of Branigans Tyres gives vehicle owners a lesson on retourquing wheel nuts.

When new, or substituted wheels are fitted for the first time, the individual responsible must torque all wheel nuts according to the vehicle manufacturers’ specifications as seen in the vehicle owner’s handbook and vehicle documentation. “After 50 kilometres of driving on the new tyres, wheel nuts must be checked once again, and if needed, be retourqued to restore initial value,” says Lett.

Each vehicle make will be subjected to different amounts of torque to tighten up the wheel nuts, as well as to avoid causing any damage in the process.

“In terms of the correct order for wheel nut torquing, loosening or tightening wheel nuts properly, requires a particular tool known as a tool wrench,” says Lett. “The vehicle owner, or mechanic will start by setting the torque wrench to half of the expected torque, tightening each nut according to that setting,” Lett adds.

The setting is then adjusted on the wrench to tighten all the wheel nuts to the correct torque. Wheel nuts are tightened in a particular sequence to allow thorough torque. The proper order for any wheel with five or ten nuts is a star-shaped pattern. A wheel with four wheel nuts, on the other hand, is tightened in the shape of a cross.

Should wheel nuts be placed too tightly, they can cause intense issues such as wheel stud stretching, as well as fastener threads being stripped. Brake drums can also become warped, along with the wheel hubs. If wheel nuts are placed loosely, they can lead to wheels potentially coming off while driving. Therefore, it is important to find the right balance when torquing the wheel nuts.

Dirt, sand and rust between the threads of a nut can create false torques during the first fitting, where the force applied, outdoes the friction, but does not result in a clamping force. It is important to take note of this and keep a close eye on all wheel nuts to ensure they’re well maintained and solidly torqued.

Wheel nuts sustain strains and stresses during daily road use, so regular wheel nut retourquing should be conducted to ensure the strength, quality and safety standards are reaffirmed. Wheel nut retourquing is a priority that must be attended to every year.

At Branigans Tyres, Chris Lett and his team ‘go green’ and are experts in the recycled tyre business. Branigans Tyres has well-established workshops in Burleigh Heads and Southport in the Gold Coast region. Checkout their full range of services or current featured promotions. Branigans award-winning affordable tyre subscriptions package start at $7.97 and help motorists budget for their ongoing tyre needs.

Vehicle owners are encouraged to drive in at their convenience as no pre-bookings or appointments are required. Branches are situated at 13 Flagstone Drive, Burleigh Heads, contact number (07) 5535 2660 or 1/277 Southport-Nerang Rd, Southport contact number, (07) 5591 8633.

Written and Syndicated by: YDMA News

The Australian weather can take an extreme toll on both the interior and exterior of your vehicle. Now that Spring has arrived, it’s time to get those tyres scrubbed and rims shined, interiors deep cleaned and vacuumed, and that exterior washed and waxed. It’s time for some serious spring-cleaning.

Australian tyre recycler and owner of Branigans Tyres, Chris Lett provides some expert spring-cleaning advice to spring into full vehicle-vibrancy.

“There are five important steps to spring-cleaning: undercarriage washing, exterior washing and waxing, tyre cleaning, replacing wiper blades, and interior cleanup,” says Lett.

Undercarriage washing: “The initial step to preparing one’s vehicle for the freshness and radiance of spring is to remove road salt and grime from the vehicle’s undercarriage. Using either a high-pressured or garden hose, try and reach every nook and cranny of the underneath with water,” says Lett.  Should one utilise a high-pressured hose, use diluted detergent and mix with water to wash the undercarriage thoroughly.

Exterior washing and waxing: Start with an initial hose down to weaken the dirt before the actual and thorough wash. Select the most effective car wash liquid, mix with water and wash with a soft sponge. “Avoid any abrasive materials like steel wool when cleaning the outer body of the vehicle. Once the vehicle is soapy and touch stains are neutralised, hose the vehicle down, and wipe the vehicle dry with a chamois cloth,” says Lett.

It’s time to start waxing. Get the ideal waxing product out and apply with a micro fibre cloth. Remember to apply wax in circular motions to get full surface coverage. Allow to dry. After that, polish the vehicle with a good waxing machine.

Tyre cleaning: Hose down tyres to weaken any soft dirt. Then apply a tyre and wheel cleaner to the outer surface and then brush with strength using a tyre brush. “One can also use an unused paintbrush to remove any debris. Rinse tyres with water, then dry with a micro fibre cloth,” says Lett.

Replacing wiper blades: “Remove any cracked wiper blades. If one notices that blades are skipping and streaking, it’s time to replace the wiper blades,” says Lett. Before refitting the new blades, use a standard window cleaning solution and thoroughly clean the front and rear windows to remove built up dirt and grime.

Interior Cleanup: Get vacuuming and remove all the fine dirt in the nooks and crannies in and around the seats and on the floor. “Vacuum car seats thoroughly, or use a wet vacuum on the car seats for better results. Based on the material of your interior, utilise the correct products to wipe down arm rests, headrests, dashboards and side areas of the interior,” says Lett. The same applies to the boot, wet or dry vacuum it and lay a plastic tarpaulin across the floor of the boot to keep it as clean as possible. For an extra boost to a clean and fresh interior, place a scented air freshener on the rear view mirror.

At Branigans Tyres, Chris Lett and his team ‘go green’ and are experts in the recycled tyre business. Branigans Tyres has well-established workshops in Burleigh Heads and Southport in the Gold Coast region. Check out their full range of services or current featured promotions. Branigans award-winning affordable tyre subscriptions package start at $7.97 and help motorists budget for their ongoing tyre needs.

Vehicle owners are encouraged to drive in at their convenience as no pre-bookings or appointments are required. Branches are situated at 13 Flagstone Drive, Burleigh Heads, contact number (07) 5535 2660 or 1/277 Southport-Nerang Rd, Southport contact number, (07) 5591 8633.

Written and Syndicated by: YDMA News

Vehicles that display fuel efficiency run with lower carbon-emitting fuels that are pivotal in meeting both climate and energy security. Additionally, improved aerodynamics in vehicles, materials and drive train efficiency, among other qualities, influence a vehicle’s coherence. Technological growth continues steadily in the automotive industry, improving vehicle efficiency as new energy sources are developed.

Owner of Branigans Tyres, and renowned Australian tyre recycling specialist, Chris Lett discusses vehicle efficiency, what it is, and how it can be measured to ensure environmental preservation.

“Vehicle efficiency is measured holistically and takes into account the vehicle’s design and performance, and how that directly influences it’s on-road capabilities,” says Lett. “More notably, driving behaviour also impacts fuel consumption, which ultimately leads to greater efficiency. Smooth acceleration and deceleration, gear-changing at higher speeds, idle reduction and removing clunky accessories that weigh down the vehicle support improved efficiency,” Lett adds.

Idle reduction is important as it heavily influences vehicle and fuel efficiency. “The longer a vehicle is left to idle, the more fuel is wasted, additionally posing a health risk to people, both in and around the vehicle. Idling also reduces a vehicle’s fuel economy, costing the owner money to recuperate that lost fuel. Luckily, diesel engines are mostly calibrated to optimum performance at travelling speeds, combusting fuel less efficiently when idling,” says Lett.

There are many vehicle and fuel efficiency techniques that promote vehicle efficiency. “The most notable techniques are: an integrated starter/generator, variable valve timing and lift, continuous variable transmission, and direct fuel injection,” says Lett.

An Integrated starter/generator allows engines to shut down and immediately restart for short stops (e.g. at a red traffic light), rather that idling at the light. Variable timing and lift enables the intake and exhaust valves to react according to the engine speed, which supports improved fuel economy and emissions. Continuous variable transmission limits the revolutions per minute (rpm) for any speed, reducing vehicle fuel consumption. Direct fuel injection is when fuel is injected directly into the cylinder barrel, allowing more efficient combustion than when fuel and air are mixed outside of the cylinder.

Accompanying these, are a few aerodynamic and weight reduction techniques that support improved efficiency. Lighter materials like carbon fibres and lighter metals allow manufacturers to reduce vehicle weight and promote engine efficiency. Vortex generators are small, triangular shaped roof mounted devices in front of the rear window.  Properly shaped, sized and positioned vortex generators reduce drag by causing air flow along the rear windshield and boot lid. Lastly, and very importantly are wheels. “Thinner, smaller wheels and low rolling resistant tyres reduce road friction and air drag, thus increasing fuel efficiency. Concave rims that are fully closed are much more dynamic than open rims,” says Lett.

Understanding vehicle efficiency does not need to be a tedious experience. It can be practical and beneficial if one takes the time to best understand their vehicle. Researching professional vehicle efficiency methods can benefit a vehicle’s performance in the long run.

At Branigans Tyres, Chris Lett and his team ‘go green’ and are experts in the recycled tyre business. Branigans Tyres has well-established workshops in Burleigh Heads and Southport in the Gold Coast region. Check out their full range of services or current featured promotions. Branigans award-winning affordable tyre subscriptions package start at $7.97 and help motorists budget for their ongoing tyre needs.

Vehicle owners are encouraged to drive in at their convenience as no pre-bookings or appointments are required. Branches are situated at 13 Flagstone Drive, Burleigh Heads, contact number (07) 5535 2660 or 1/277 Southport-Nerang Rd, Southport contact number, (07) 5591 8633.

Written and Syndicated by: YDMA News

It is true that fuel-efficient driving can save one a great deal of money. Preventing wear and tear on one’s vehicle, improving road safety and, ultimately, curbing carbon dioxide emissions through lowering a vehicle’s fuel consumption, all support greater fuel efficiency.

Chris Lett, Australian tyre recycler and owner of Branigans Tyres, provides some great fuel-saving tips to equip drivers to reduce fuel consumption, and increase economical awareness.

“Planning ahead helps; listen to traffic reports and avoid accidents, and other trouble spots. Mapping out one’s road journey before starting out is wise,” says Lett. “It is also important that road-users adopt the following fuel-efficient techniques and tips,” Lett adds.

Maintain a steady speed: When one’s speed begins to dip and burst inconsistently, more fuel is consumed. As a result, drivers end up filling their cars more often, which becomes costly. Where it is permitted, consider using cruise control for highway driving. Note, however, that the small variations in speed can be good when gravity assists. Also, if possible, decrease the speed when travelling uphill, as the motor will regain momentum as it rolls downhill. Fluctuating one’s speed between 75 and 85 km per hour every 18 seconds can increase fuel consumption by 20%, therefore, consistent speed regularly practiced on the roads will reduce this.

Avoid high-speeds: “Don’t crawl, and also, don’t rush,” says Lett. “Essentially, obey the speed limits and fuel-saving is one step closer,” Lett adds. Excessive speeding uses more fuel, as well as driving slowly using the highest gear. Maintaining a balance can be achieved if one adheres to the speed limit and uses the appropriate gear.

Monitor air-conditioner usage: A startling fact is that using the air-conditioner can increase one’s fuel consumption by 20%. When driving in the city, open the windows. If one does use the air-conditioner, utilise the re-circulate option to minimise the usage.

Accelerate gently: Take about five seconds to accelerate the vehicle up to 20km per hour from a stop. This will assist in fuel-efficiency. Never accelerate hard as that will lead to incurring unwanted costs for fuel.

Track fuel consumption: Evaluate how long one’s vehicle can go without filling the tank, be it a few weeks, maybe a month. Commit to the challenge of refilling only when the tank is close to empty as this may assist in reducing weekly or monthly fuel costs.

Avoid unnecessary idling: Turn off the engine, if the vehicle has stopped for more than a minute, unless one is in traffic,” says Lett.

“Following these steps will show results on both fuel consumption and the pocket,” says Lett. “Vehicle owners should be savvy in terms of fuel management,” adds Lett.

At Branigans Tyres, Chris Lett and his team ‘go green’ and are experts in the recycled tyre business. Branigans Tyres has well-established workshops in Burleigh Heads and Southport in the Gold Coast region. Check out their full range of services or current featured promotions. Branigans award-winning affordable tyre subscriptions package start at $7.97 and help motorists budget for their ongoing tyre needs.

Vehicle owners are encouraged to drive in at their convenience as no pre-bookings or appointments are required. Branches are situated at 13 Flagstone Drive, Burleigh Heads, contact number (07) 5535 2660 or 1/277 Southport-Nerang Rd, Southport contact number, (07) 5591 8633.

Written and Syndicated by: YDMA News

Every vehicle should have an emergency supply kit in the boot of their car. It’s best to check this every six months and expired items should be replaced.

Chris Lett, Australian tyre recycler and owner of Branigans tyres discusses the importance of keeping tools and supplies in the vehicle in the case of an emergency.

“Start with having emergency phone numbers, such as insurance companies, towing companies, and emergency services handy in case of an emergency and immediate assistance is required,” says Lett.

A car charger is a necessary item and is something that is often overlooked. Keeping your phone charged can be vital if there is an emergency.

Having a rain poncho or umbrella in the car can be useful if roadside repairs need to be undertaken or if you need to walk for assistance in heavy rain.

Fires are an issue that require immediate response, and having a fire extinguisher on hand can help douse early flames. However, it is imperative that using a fire extinguisher should only be undertaken if safe. It is better to leave the vehicle quickly and wait for the experts.

A roll of duct tape goes along way if something decides to break or fall out of place. Repair if possible and then make your way to your nearest mechanic.

A reflective vest is a vital addition to the tool kit. There have been many deaths in Australia where someone working on a car on the side of the road has been killed. A reflective vest can help someone to be spotted, especially if it is dark or a dull day. Reflective triangles placed inside the bonnet or boot of the car are also a good idea.

Jumper leads are a necessary item to have in the car. It’s amazing the amount of times someone has a dead battery.

A First Aid kit should always be on hand along with bottles of drinking water and non-perishable foods. These can come in handy if there is an accident or if broken down and help is a few hours away.

A multifaceted tool kit with a large flashlight and batteries and a multipurpose utility tool will definitely be useful in an emergency.

Always ensure the spare tyre, tripod jack and wheel wrench are inside the boot of the car. If a spare tyre has been used, it’s important that it is replaced as soon as possible.

“Some items are more important than others. However, being prepared for an emergency with the above items, will be of benefit should one occur,” says Lett. Keep an emergency tools checklist prepared, keep it updated and checked when required to best ensure one has what they need.

Branigans Tyres has well-established workshops in Burleigh Heads and Southport in the Gold Coast region. Checkout their full range of services or current featured promotions. Branigans award-winning affordable tyre subscriptions package starts at $7.97 and helps motorists budget for their ongoing tyre needs.

Vehicle owners are encouraged to drive in at their convenience as no pre-bookings or appointments are required. The branches are Burleigh Heads: (07) 5535 2660 situated at 13 Flagstone Drive or Southport: (07) 5591 8633 located at 1/277 Southport-Nerang Rd.

Written and syndicated by YDMA News.

With the changing seasons, and depending on where motorists live, it might be necessary to focus on changing tyres. Whether you are switching to summer or winter tyres, it is important to know how to store off-season tyre sets.

Australian tyre recycler and owner of Branigans Tyres, Chris Lett, discusses tyre storage, and how vehicle owners can keep seasonal tyres protected and organised until they’re needed on the roads again.

Proper tyre handling and storage can affect the characteristics of the tyres. “If handled and stored poorly, it can shorten the life span of the tyre, leading to storage deterioration that can result in tyres needing to be replaced. However, if tyres are handled and stored correctly, and the following tips are adhered to, they will provide many years of on road service and save vehicle owners a lot of money,” says Lett.

Clean the tyres: With some detergent, a bucket of water and a tyre brush, clean those tyres before storing them. This will provide a fresher look and feel for stored tyres, along with the necessary removal of the previous season’s dirt. Ensure that after cleaning, tyres are dried and prepared for storage.

Wrap them up in bags: Provide large, yard bags or even leaf bags that are airtight to fit each tyre in. “It is important to ensure that both tyres and bags are free of moisture. This will reduce the evaporation of oils from rubber compounds. Use a vacuum cleaner to remove air from the bag,” says Lett.

Keep stored tyres away from the sunlight: “All stored tyres should be kept out of direct sunlight as UV Rays and the heat of the sun can create issues on the rubber,” says Lett.

Select the ideal location: Tyres should not be stored in the open air even under a covering during cold or warm weather. Dry, cool and well-ventilated areas that are out of the sunlight like garages, basements, attics or even sheds are better storage areas for your tyres. If possible, it is important that these areas are climate-controlled, keeping tyres away from any unwanted heat or inconsistent temperatures.

Keep tyres away from chemicals: Avoid chemicals like Ozone. In particular, electric motors using contact brushes generate ozone. These can include, furnaces, generators, and compressors, among others. Storage areas should not be near lubricants, solvents or fuels either.

White rubber must be secured: Should tyres have white lettering, take note. If you decide not to bag the tyres, then it is crucial that the white areas touch other white areas, and black areas touch the other black areas. This is because the black rubber located on the white side is compounded differently than the black rubber located on the other side. The non-staining black rubber layer is used on the tyre’s white side to prevent oils moving from the black to the white areas of the tyre, leading to discolouration. Thus, storing black to the other black, and whites alike will avoid any marks.

Stand them, stack them or hang them: The options to stand tyres upright, stack them on their sides or hand them up on racks are up for choice in terms of storage. “As long as tyres are placed in ways that provide less stress on each other, prevent damage or unwanted tipping,” says Lett.

“Tyres are prone to ageing, however these tips will assist in extending their lives and performance,” says Lett. Make seasonal tyre storage a priority, and your tyres will be ready to use again for next season’s journeys.

At Branigans Tyres, Chris Lett and his team ‘go green’ and are experts in the recycled tyre business. Branigans Tyres has well-established workshops in Burleigh Heads and Southport in the Gold Coast region. Checkout their full range of services or current featured promotions. Branigans award-winning affordable tyre subscriptions package start at $7.97 and help motorists budget for their ongoing tyre needs.

Vehicle owners are encouraged to drive in at their convenience as no pre-bookings or appointments are required. Branches are situated at 13 Flagstone Drive, Burleigh Heads, contact number (07) 5535 2660 or 1/277 Southport-Nerang Rd, Southport contact number, (07) 5591 8633.

Written and Syndicated by: YDMA News

Braking systems are designed and purposed for safety. Over the years, braking systems have evolved. Branigans Tyres owner, and Australian recycled tyre specialist, Chris Lett, discusses the most common types of vehicle brakes. “The majority of brakes utilise friction on two sides of the wheel, thus the collective press on the wheel converts the kinetic energy to heat to slow the car,” says Lett.

The most common types of braking systems in modern vehicles today are Electromagnetic, Hydraulic, Mechanical and Servo Braking Systems.

Electromagnetic Braking Systems are found in a number of modern, as well as hybrid vehicles. This braking system utilises the principle of electromagnetism in achieving friction-less braking, increasing both the reliability of the brakes, and the life span.

Hydraulic Braking Systems run on friction, cylinders and brake fluid. “Through creating pressure within, diethylene glycol or glycol ethers force the brake pads to stop the wheels from moving,” says Lett. Considered as one of the most important braking systems for modern vehicles, the hydraulic braking system has a lesser chance of brake failure.

Mechanical Braking Systems operate the hand or emergency brake. The brake force applied to the pedal is then transferred to the final brake drum or disc rotor through multiple mechanical links like springs, cylindrical rods, and fulcrums in order to stop the vehicle. “Mechanical Braking Systems were used in a lot of older motor vehicles, however they are less effective nowadays, to the point of being obsolete,” says Lett.

Servo Braking Systems or Vacuum Assisted Braking Systems is when pressure is increasingly applied to the pedal by the driver. Pushing the brake pedal then releases the vacuum on the side of the booster, with the difference in air pressure pushing the diaphragm for braking the vehicle’s wheels.

The types of vehicle brakes include: The Disc Brakes, and The Drum Brakes. The Disc Brakes are normally made of cast iron, but can also be made of ceramic-matrix composites nowadays. This brake is linked to the wheel and/or axle. In order to stop the wheel, friction material in the brake pads is forced onto both sides of the disc.

Drum Brakes are a traditional brake in which friction is caused by a set of pads or shoes that press against a rotating drum-shaped tool called a brake drum.

At Branigans Tyres, Chris Lett and his team can overhaul your braking system and ensure your brakes are in good working order. They are also experts in the environmentally friendly recycled tyre business and can ensure you have the safest tyres on your car.

Branigans Tyres has well-established workshops in Burleigh Heads and Southport in the Gold Coast region. Check out their full range of services or current featured promotions. Branigans award-winning affordable tyre subscriptions package start at $7.97 and help motorists budget for their ongoing tyre needs.

Vehicle owners are encouraged to drive in at their convenience as no pre-bookings or appointments are required. Branches are situated at 13 Flagstone Drive, Burleigh Heads, contact number (07) 5535 2660 or 1/277 Southport-Nerang Rd, Southport contact number, (07) 5591 8633.

Written and Syndicated by: YDMA News

Spring has arrived, and it’s time to welcome the season of freshness with a fresh tyre check up that could potentially improve both the quality of tyres, as well as the on-road experience.

Australian tyre recycler and owner of Branigans Tyres, Chris Lett, wants Australian motorists to be ready this spring and undertake a tyre check. “It is important to reiterate tyre importance once again, to ensure regular tyre inspections,” says Lett. “As Australia moves into the spring season, road trips are planned and more cars are on the roads.It’s therefore, a good time to have a tyre check up to evaluate tyre performance and safety,” Lett adds.

“Tyre check ups consist of the following: tyre pressure, tyre condition and age, and tread depth,” says Lett. Each aspect of the checklist will be discussed further.

Tyre pressure: Utilise a tyre pressure gauge to ensure tyres are well inflated. After that, fill the tyres with the amount of air as required by the vehicle manufacturer. In terms of checking tyre pressure, remove the valve stem cap, press the gauge head evenly onto the valve stem, apply firmly so that the hissing sound stops. Then remove the gauge and read the pressure. Most importantly, always check tyres when they are cold, or usually after three hours if the vehicle has been driven. Do not bleed pressure from a hot tyre.

Tyre condition and age: Inspect the tyres for damage or conditions that would require a replacement. Inspect the treads and side walls for scrapes, cuts, punctures, bulges, bumps, cracks or wear and tear. “If there are any concerns about the appearance of the tyres or their performance, contact Branigans Tyres Southport or Burleigh Heads, where the tyre specialists will see to the faults and recommend an affordable replacement,” says Lett.

Assess the vehicle’s tyre tread depth to ensure tyre tread attains the adequate amount of traction on the roads. The tread depth in Australia of new tyres is 8.0mm, thus it is recommended that one require new tyres when the tread depth is 3.0mm. Attaining new tyres with more than the legal minimum tread depth (which is 1,6mm) provides great advantages in one’s cornering abilities, vehicle handling abilities and most imperative, one’s breaking abilities.

Once the tyre inspection has been completed, and faults are addressed, one can embark on a safe journey.

Branigans Tyres has well-established workshops in Burleigh Heads and Southport in the Gold Coast region. Checkout their full range of services or current featured promotions. Branigans award-winning affordable tyre subscriptions package starts at $7.97 and helps motorists budget for their ongoing tyre needs.

Vehicle owners are encouraged to drive in at their convenience as no pre-bookings or appointments are required. The branches are Burleigh Heads: (07) 5535 2660 situated at 13 Flagstone Drive or Southport: (07) 5591 8633 located at 1/277 Southport-Nerang Rd.

Written and syndicated by YDMA News.

Brakes stand at the forefront of vehicle and motorist safety. This month, brake safety is highlighted. It’s purpose, characteristics, and performance will inform drivers comprehensively on maintaining safe and top-notch service.

Chris Lett, Branigans Tyres owner and trusted Australian tyre recycler, informs motorists about Brake Safety Awareness, and urges them to create a brake safety checklist.

“It’s time for people to get serious about their brakes; from preparing for long-road family trips, to getting to work, and everything in between,” says Lett. “The increase in vehicle usage should prompt motorists to check their brakes and the condition of them regularly,” Lett adds.

Brake inspections can be carried out by the owner. However, it is best if the inspection is undertaken by a professional mechanic. This can also include regular brake system care, and overall vehicle maintenance. Making sure that braking system functions are properly operational, enables motorists to have peace of mind.

“Start with checking the vehicle’s brake fluid, and ensure there are not any leaks. If the brake fluid is a dark colour, it might have to be flushed out. Inspect the vehicles braking components, push the brake pedal and feel out the performance of the braking. Initially these inspections should be performed when the brakes are working well,” says Lett. “It is best to be prepared and ensure the safety of all road users,” adds Lett.

On the road, it is imperative to acclimatise to the conditions presented. For example: When on a highway, stop safely and with a decent amount of space between one’s vehicle, and the other vehicle. Brake with alertness on wet and slippery roads, and slow down if needed.

“Brakes should be checked at least once a year,” says Lett. Listen for warning signs such as strange brake responses, noises, and an abnormal feeling when the brake pedal is depressed. Along with brake inspections, it is important to ensure that one’s vehicle tyres are also in good condition, with no punctures, tread wear and other potential tyre concerns. Branigans Tyres specialises in tyre maintenance and solutions to best prepare drivers on the road at extremely affordable prices, and provide professional assistance on one’s tyre performance and improvement.

“A brake checklist should incorporate the performance of the brakes, their condition, and the condition of the brake fluid,” says Lett. “Nothing is more important than one’s life, and Brake Safety Awareness emphasises this. So let’s ensure that all road users are safe and undertake thorough and professional brake checks,” adds Lett.

Branigans Tyres has well-established workshops in Burleigh Heads and Southport in the Gold Coast region. Browse through their full range of services or current featured promotions. Branigans award-winning affordable tyre subscriptions package starts at $7.97 and helps motorists budget for their ongoing tyre needs.

Vehicle owners are encouraged to drive in at their convenience as no pre-bookings or appointments are required. The branches are Burleigh Heads: (07) 5535 2660 situated at 13 Flagstone Drive or Southport: (07) 5591 8633 located at 1/277 Southport-Nerang Rd.

Written and syndicated by YDMA News.

Tyre recycling is a very intricate, and unique process. For well over two decades, Branigans Tyres has specialised in tyres, and has integrated quality tyre recycling into their vast range of expertise.

“Tyre recycling is converting worn or damaged tyres to be either repurposed for a new product, or recreating recycled, stronger and environmentally conscious tyres,” says Chris Lett, Australian tyre recycler and owner of Branigans Tyres. “At Branigans, the team instills new life into recycled tyres to ensure customers receive expertly developed recycled tyres,” Lett adds.

Quality enhancement is a major priority, along with safety and masterful features that rival a freshly produced tyre. Thus, second-hand tyres are re-enforced and redeveloped to ensure that performance is equal to, or potentially better than new tyres.

Not only can tyres be recycled and second-hand tyres produced, tyres can also be recycled and the rubber used for a variety of products.Chris Lett discusses the tyre recycling process, and aims to simplify the complex process.

“The tyre recycling process that enables tyre rubber to be repurposed for other products is rather specific and includes the following steps.Waste Tyre Collection, Tyre Shredding, Steel liberation, Screening, Cleaning, and, Packing and Transporting,” says Lett.

Waste tyre collection: Businesses or individuals dealing in tyre recycling, collect tyres which are then sent to points of collection, to which tyre dealers are then remunerated.

Tyre shredding: After collection, tyres are sent to processing plants and are cut into small pieces. The tyre size is then reduced into a material that can be easily handled. With the aid of tyre shredders, tyres are cut up or shredded using the rotating shafts. This phase produces two-inch length shreds.

“At this phase the process takes two forms, Mechanical and Cryogenic systems. Mechanical systems consist of scraping scrap tyres into smaller chips at room temperature. Ideally, one can place rubber shreds into a granulator with screens to monitor the size the shred can be reduced to,” says Lett.

“Cryogenic systems, however, shutter smaller chips by freezing the scrap tyres at lower temperatures. Liquid Nitrogen is used, and cools the tyre shreds. Cold and brittle rubber is passed through hammer mills in this phase, and broken down into tiny particles,” Lett adds.

Steel liberation: All the steel is removed with magnets. Separating fibres from other components through air classifies is also done at this stage. Steel wires are removed and recycled, and these can be sent to roll mills, and can be used in manufacturing new wheels.

Screening: Once the wires have been removed from the tyre rubber, it is then screened in large volumes, with all sized rubbers organised according to size.

Cleaning: Water, and cleaning agents are used to clean screened rubbers.

Packing and Transporting: The clean rubber is then packaged and distributed to processing plants where it can be repurposed into other products.

“Tyre recycling is a phenomenal process that can either re-purpose or recreate. Either are best, through the production of second-hand/ recycled tyres. The finest details are met to ensure that a tyre that was once used, must perform twice as better in promoting both the ideal safety for drivers, as well as well-rounded quality “, says Lett.

Branigans Tyres has well-established workshops in Burleigh Heads and Southport in the Gold Coast region. Checkout their full range of services or current featured promotions. Branigans award-winning affordable tyre subscriptions package starts at $7.97 and helps motorists budget for their ongoing tyre needs.

Vehicle owners are encouraged to drive in at their convenience as no pre-bookings or appointments are required. The branches are Burleigh Heads: (07) 5535 2660 situated at 13 Flagstone Drive or Southport: (07) 5591 8633 located at 1/277 Southport-Nerang Rd.

Written and syndicated by YDMA News.

La Niña has arrived, along with it’s tumultuous and challenging weather conditions. During this period, road safety becomes a top priority, and with that, tyre safety is at the foreground of the discussion. Every few years, weather patterns like La Niña occur, accompanied by increased rainfall, shifts in temperature and earlier monsoon onsets. All factors test both the performance and durability of tyres.

La Niña favours no road user, or anyone in general. Slippery roads due to increased rainfall, and increased wind gusts act against drivers’ abilities, and that is where tyre safety and quality evaluation enters the equation.  Chris Lett, Australian tyre recycler and founder of Branigans Tyres, talks about the effects of La Niña and the importance of tyre safety and standards to best withstand the harsh, wet and windy conditions. “Developing and designing quality-specific tyres should be a testament to tackling rough weather,” says Lett.

When the weather is bad, tyre checks should be a priority. “Tyre checks prove to be equally as important as filling one’s car with fuel,” says Lett. Tyre checks should regularly be undertaken by qualified tyre mechanics who meticulously inspect the tyres and give advice to best equip drivers about the current performance and condition of their tyres.

“In the presence of inclement weather, road-users should highly prioritise their tyre checks,” says Lett. “Creating a tyre checklist is a core benefit, and should include the following assessments on tread tyre depth, tyre rotation and tyre inflation.”

The tyre tread depth is pivotal to the grip of the tyre, and should meet the legal minimum tread depth of 1.5mm in Australia. When it pertains to wet conditions, tyre treads that are worn could pose a detrimental risk to the driver, as there is insufficient traction. “Inspecting and ensuring that tyre tread depths meet the standard of 1.5mm is as crucial as applying one’s safety belt when driving,” says Lett.

Tyre rotation is another element of focus. Rotating tyres ensures even tyre wear and provides an accurate visual on the current conditions of one’s tyres. Tyre rotations are beneficial and can increase the life span of tyres. “When vehicles commence a long distance road trip, it is important that the driver considers a tyre rotation beforehand,” says Lett.

Tyre inflation is equally as important as the other elements discussed. “If road users have tyres that are losing air, or are running flat, they should immediately replace or inflate tyres before continuing with any road activities, ” says Lett. Properly inflated tyres can ensure that the safety and security standards of the vehicle are being met.

“Through creating and practicing the necessary tyre safety checklist, road users are well-informed on their tyre conditions and how to prepare for inclement weather best,” says Lett. Drivers can initiate solutions to maintain their tyres and ensure both their safety and the safety of others using the roads.

Branigans Tyres has well-established workshops in Burleigh Heads and Southport in the Gold Coast region. Check out their full range of services or current featured promotions. Branigans award-winning affordable tyre subscriptions package start at $7.97 and help motorists budget for their ongoing tyre needs.

Vehicle owners are encouraged to drive in at their convenience as no pre-bookings or appointments are required. Branches are situated at 13 Flagstone Drive, Burleigh Heads, contact number (07) 5535 2660 or 1/277 Southport-Nerang Rd, Southport contact number, (07) 5591 8633.

Syndicated by: YDMA News, Your Digital Marketing Agency

Tyres comprise and form the literal foundation of every vehicle and ensure that people reach their destinations safely. In return, tyres should be both designed and tailored in a sustainable and environmentally conscious manner.

Australian tyre recycler and founder of Branigans Tyres, Chris Lett, explains the key principles of developing sustainable tyres and protecting the environment. In addition, Lett highlights the need to reduce the environmental footprint for tyre companies.

The goal to become more environmentally sustainable has led designers to integrate more bio-based or repurposed materials within their designs. These include: natural rubber, silica, dandelion rubber and recycled plastic, among other materials. “The imperatives of the global environment should be at the top of the list when designing or re-purposing tyres and their respective materials” says Lett.

Materials such as Synthetic rubber, stand as one of the initial tools of benefit in the aim to design sustainable tyres. Synthetic rubber proves to be superior to natural rubber in three major aspects: Ageing Resistance, Temperature Resistance and Abrasion Resistance. Additionally, Synthetic Rubber is a cheaper option to produce. Though a formidable substitute, Synthetic rubber cannot replace all the natural rubber in a tyre.

Natural rubber in fact, presents multiple technological benefits including elasticity and shape retention after being stretched. It is possible to sculpt natural rubber by heating, then cooling it to maintain its shape. Natural Rubber is sourced from the highly commercial Pará rubber tree originally from Brazil, and is sourced primarily for its elasticity properties. “Both Natural and Synthetic tyres are a great starting point for companies to embark on a more greener approach” says Lett. Lett adds “Natural Rubber has minimal, to no impact on the environment, and Synthetic Rubber saves energy when produced, as well as reduces vibration and noise. Both types of rubber compliment each other’s flaws, however they both share the same goal, to enhance a greener and more sustainable future”.

Traditional rubber compound mixing and testing has proven to be complex and resource consuming with over 1500 different materials used to make thousands of samples annually. The current dilemma however is that between 5 and 10 gallons of petroleum oil is used on average to produce a single tyre, to which the industry has worked tirelessly on reducing. Including eco-friendly materials like Silica acts a as decent substitute for rubber, and reduces road friction. In addition, plant-derived replacements are at the forefront, replacing petroleum with sunflower oil, as well as oils from orange peels to substitute toxic materials. “Tyre companies are constantly conceptualising and practicing new and environmentally friendly options to reduce the tedious tyre process as well as protect nature at all costs” says Lett.

When tyres are designed, the cardinal properties are safety and performance, however resource conservation and fuel economy are equally as decisive. A large-scale production of Dandelion root natural latex provides an additional alternative to rubber tree plantations. Intriguingly, dandelions thrive in industrial areas. In time, tyre manufacturers may see dandelion plantations farmed to provide dandelion root natural latex, developed in alignment with tyre manufacturing plants. Minimising distances between material growth, harvesting, and processing are ecologically and economically advantageous. Thus, this portion of the tyre manufacturing and production process will use less petroleum and emit less Carbon Dioxide (CO2). “With a wide range of alternatives and materials that work, companies can best assure that their commitment to the environment is met” says Lett.

At Branigans Tyres, Southport and Burleigh Heads, you can go green by purchasing second hand tyres for your vehicle. Some of these tyres have only been driven for a few thousand kilometres!  All tyres at Branigans Tyres go through a thorough safety check. So for safety, quality, and expertise at your fingertips, Branigans Tyres workshops at Burleigh Heads and Southport offer a greener option, cost savings, and a one-stop shop for all things wheel and tyre-related.

Vehicle owners are encouraged to drive in at their convenience as no pre-bookings or appointments are required. Also, check out their full range of services or current featured promotions. Branigans award-winning affordable tyre subscriptions package starts at $7.97 and helps motorists budget for their ongoing tyre needs. Branigan Tyres are situated at 13 Flagstone Drive, Burleigh Heads – (07) 5535 2660 and 1/277 Southport-Nerang Road, Southport – (07) 5591 8633.

Written and syndicated by YDMA News.

When your tyres are fit for purpose, it simply means that the tyres don’t have any lumps, bulges and tears. It also means that the tyres meet the minimum tread depth requirements. Chris Lett , Australian tyre expert and founder of Branigans Tyres shares his tyre knowledge and advice with all consumers.

The right tyre for the job

The aim is to avoid a roadworthy failure. Having the wrong tyres or incorrectly fitted tyres can lead to a roadworthy failure. That’s why you need to not only have the right tyres, but also have the right tyres fitted correctly. Most drivers are advised to replace their tyres in pairs across the axle, or all four at the same time. Lett says, “there is no legal obligation to use the same tyres as the original tyres for your vehicle; the tyres chosen need to be of a specified tread pattern suited for the make and model of the car. What’s not allowed is mixing up tyre sizes and construction types across an axle.”

“If only two tyres are replaced, a close match to the existing tyres should be fitted to the back axle. This is to ensure stability when driving,” Lett said.

So, you’ve purchased new tyres and now you’re unsure of how to fit them correctly

There’s a technique used by tyre specialists to fit tyres the right way to ensure that your vehicle is roadworthy. This is why it’s important to get tyres fitted into a vehicle by a professional. If a tyre is not fitted correctly, the tyre can become damaged or burst easily. “Tyres that aren’t fitted according to the marking on the sidewall mean that the driver won’t benefit from the special design of the tyre,” Lett added.

Steps to remove a tyre the correct way

Firstly, the car should not have any passengers and the engine should be turned off with the handbrake kept engaged. The wheel nuts on all four wheels can then be loosened (not removed yet) with a wheel wrench.

In the second step, the car is lifted using a hydraulic lift, to ensure that all four wheels are off the ground.

In the final step, the wheel nuts are removed to allow for each wheel to be removed.

Fitting new tyres at Branigans Tyres

Fitting one tyre takes about 30 minutes but this varies based on the services required. After every fitting of new tyres, the wheels need to be balanced. This also adds to the total time taken to complete the tyre fitting process.

Lett says, “Branigans Tyres makes use of advanced equipment which helps to make the removing and replacing of tyres quick and easy.” With over 15 years of experience in the tyre business, Branigans Tyres are trusted tyre specialists in the Gold Coast region, offering vehicle owners a wide choice from nearly new quality performance tyres from well-known brands at affordable wholesale prices.

Trust Branigans Tyres when it comes to finding the right tyres for your vehicles and fitting them correctly. There’s no better time than the present to get your tyres fitted by an expert. Save money and stay safe with Branigan’s monthly promotions.

Branigans Tyres has well-established workshops in Burleigh Heads and Southport in the Gold Coast region. Check out their full range of services or current featured promotions. Branigans award-winning affordable tyre subscriptions package starts at $7.97 and helps motorists budget for their ongoing tyre needs.

Vehicle owners are encouraged to drive in at their convenience as no pre-bookings or appointments are required. The branches are Burleigh Heads: (07) 5535 2660 situated at 13 Flagstone Drive or Southport: (07) 5591 8633 located at 1/277 Southport-Nerang Rd.

Written and Syndicated by YDMA News.

Tyre tread sipes are small slits or cuts found on the surface of the tyre tread. They provide great traction in snow, ice, mud, and wet road surfaces. But they sure don’t get enough credit for the level of safety they provide to any driver’s experience. Iconic Australian tyre recycler and founder of Branigans Tyres, Chris Lett, provides more information about sipes.

Regardless of how important tyre sipes are, when it comes to purchasing a new set of tyres, tyre sipes are often overlooked as a possible criterion. “If tyre sipes greatly affects the smoothness of a ride, then it is surely an important factor to consider when comparing tyres,” Said Lett.

It all began in the 1920’s when a man, who worked in a slaughter house, by the name of John Sipes became annoyed by the fact that he’s shoes made him slip on wet floors. This is when the brilliant idea, to cut slits into the soles of his shoes, came to mind. This gave Sipes the traction he needed when walking on wet surfaces.

Thanks to this discovery, more advances were made to the tyre. Today, the types of tyres vary from wet weather tyres, to all-season tyres that can withstand any type of weather.

Besides the obvious and already mentioned, improved traction, tyre sipes have many other advantages. These include “improved surface grip and better control of the wheels,” Lett says. Tyre sipes also improve the lifespan of tyres and contributes to a shortened braking distance.

One disadvantage is that tyres with sipes don’t provide much grip in high-heat conditions. That’s why summer tyres don’t have as many sipes. In the summer, tyres get traction from contact made with the road. Lett says, “if summer tyres had more sipes it would just add pressure between the road surface and the tyre, which would only negatively affect the vehicle’s durability.”

When it comes to finding the right tyres, it can become complex. Speaking to an expert ensures the right decisions are made with regards to tyre maintenance and replacements.

Branigans Tyres has well-established workshops in Burleigh Heads and Southport in the Gold Coast region. Check out their full range of services or current featured promotions. Branigans award-winning affordable tyre subscriptions package starts at $7.97 and helps motorists budget for their ongoing tyre needs.

Vehicle owners are encouraged to drive in at their convenience as no pre-bookings or appointments are required. The branches are Burleigh Heads: (07) 5535 2660 situated at 13 Flagstone Drive or Southport: (07) 5591 8633 located at 1/277 Southport-Nerang Rd.

Written and syndicated by YDMA News.

When a healthy tyre cycle reaches its climax, a recycled tyre begins its journey. Therefore, regular tyre pressure checks will save a driver time and money by preventing premature tyre replacement.

Australian Tyre Recycler and owner of Branigans Tyres Southport, Chris Lett dissects and thoroughly explains Tyre Recycling and the necessary key points.

To boot, driving style, tyre design, the climate, road conditions, and how often the car is driven, all elongate the factor list. The driver is another consideration because tyres on wheels will last longer if a motorist nurtures them, just as one should with the rest of their vehicle.

Yet, when all else fails, one may wonder whether it is the right time to change tyres. It is important to look at the factors that impact the right timing for tyre replacements.

“Many drivers don’t rotate their tyres at all,” says Branigans Tyres founder Chris Lett. He adds that “they could save a substantial amount of money over time if they did.” “Wheel alignment and proper inflation is a quick and important fix,” adds Lett.

By maintaining wheels and aligning axles correctly, drivers can prevent premature tyre changes. Rear and front tyre rotation, depending on the tread pattern, goes a long way.

Lett adds that, “While the tyres are getting moved around, they can be thoroughly inspected for wear and damage and replaced if necessary. It’s also a good opportunity to get wheel balancing done”.

“A vehicle’s tyres should be rotated every 10,000km or so, and for those who drive a fair amount, that will probably coincide with their vehicle’s oil change and service,” adds Lett.

Furthermore, tyre experts advise drivers to inspect tyre tread because it remains important to remember that the legal limit for tyre tread is 1.6mm. Drivers may apply preventative maintenance of tyres by concentrating on vehicle handling while driving.

Therefore, tyre replacement is the driver’s responsibility, and it is best to replace vehicle tyres before crossing the legal limit for tread depth (1.6mm).

As soon as the tread depth falls below the legal limit, replacing tyres takes top priority.

Lett says, “unbalanced tyres speed up tyre tread wear and this is why tyre balancing is so important”.

Motorists should therefore remain mindful of the tread depth, pattern design, and rubber compound of the tread of a vehicle’s tyres, to continue safe driving during wet weather.

Lower tread depths, therefore, result in reduced braking performance on slick or snow-covered roads. Reduced tread depths later increase the risk of aquaplaning on wet roads.

To remain on the safe side, check tyres often, drive slower on icy or snowy roads, and plan to have your tyres replaced before they wear out. And like all things in life, tyres have a lifetime.

When planning to dispose of old tyres, one should remain mindful that dumping old tyres in landfills is illegal in many countries. Ask Branigan’s Tyres about their environmentally friendly option to recycle old tyres when investing in a new set.

Recycled tyres get another chance at life. Because cement plays a major role in scrap tyre recycling, its waste is converted into tyre-derived fuel for kilns in the cement-making process. This is because of its high energy content.

The steel and silica found in tyres are then used as subaltern raw materials in other industries. Tyre processors may also re-purpose tyre shreds into tyre-derived products. Shredding separates the steel and textile components, which can be reused singly.

After that, the rubber granules are used to create panels that serve as insulation and sealing for buildings.

Moreover, the elastic filler material on artificial grass sports fields is made from fine-particle granulate. Rubber powder, for example, can be used as a tarmac layer capable of noise absorption in the construction of roads. Get on the green side of road safety with a good-as-new pair of Branigans recycled tyres.

Branigans Tyres has well-established workshops in Burleigh Heads and Southport in the Gold Coast region. Checkout their full range of services or current featured promotions. Branigans award-winning affordable tyre subscriptions package starts at $7.97 and helps motorists budget for their ongoing tyre needs.

Vehicle owners are encouraged to drive in at their convenience as no pre-bookings or appointments are required. The branches are Burleigh Heads: (07) 5535 2660 situated at 13 Flagstone Drive or Southport: (07) 5591 8633 located at 1/277 Southport-Nerang Rd.

Written and syndicated by YDMA News.

Tyres are one of the most overlooked components of a vehicle. Although they can be expensive, they are undoubtedly the most critical component of a vehicle, as they are the only thing that connects the vehicle to the road. That one particular connection in tyres, should provide key safety and security, specifically on wet roads during rainfall.

Chris Lett, Australian tyre recycler and founder of Branigans Tyres advises in detail on how road users can practice imperative safety precautions during rainy weather.

“It is fundamental to remember that drivers should not drive a vehicle with tyres that have worn out tread,” says Lett. Contact and rotation, according to Lett, “influence traction, cornering acceleration and the braking system of a vehicle.”

There is a definite correlation between rain and accidents, even a moderate drizzle of rain, let alone a torrential downpour, may provide a difficult environment for a motorist to deal with.

Rubber patches about the size of a motorist’s palm are all that the vehicle has in contact with the road. When it rains, adding this variable to the equation might result in a disaster. Therefore, it is important to ensure that tyres are in good condition to avoid losing control of one’s vehicle.

Regardless of where a motorist resides, it is highly likely that one will be forced to drive in the rain at some time. Therefore, it is important to know how wet roads and poor visibility can impact the way a car behaves when driving.

Chris Lett has some important tips for drivers when driving in wet weather: Firstly slow down, increase the guideline for a three-second safe distance from the car in front to five to six seconds, use rear vision and side mirrors, use low beam headlights to see and to be seen, and ensure wiper blades are in good order.

Branigans Tyres is committed to environmental friendliness as well as safety. They recommend filling tyres with nitrogen rather than oxygen. “The key benefit of nitrogen is that it can escape through the inner lining of a tyre at a slower rate, allowing it to cool the vehicle’s running temperature” says Lett.

“Furthermore, nitrogen propels low rolling resistance, and grips in wet conditions, allowing motorists improved direction stability.  It also takes up to six months for a tyre to lose its pressure after being filled with nitrogen,” Lett adds.

At every visit, Branigans Tyres will ensure that all tyres on the vehicle, including the spare tyre, have the correct tyre pressure, and that they are inflated properly.

Branigans Tyres has well-established workshops in Burleigh Heads and Southport in the Gold Coast region. Check out their full range of services or current featured promotions. Branigans award-winning affordable tyre subscriptions package starts at $7.97 and helps motorists budget for their ongoing tyre needs.

Vehicle owners are encouraged to drive in at their convenience as no pre-bookings or appointments are required. The branches are Burleigh Heads: (07) 5535 2660 situated at 13 Flagstone Drive or Southport: (07) 5591 8633 located at 1/277 Southport-Nerang Rd.

Written and syndicated by YDMA News.

The tyres on a car are essential for road safety and the safety of others. Their performance and comfort dictate road safety. An eco-friendly tyre meets specific environmental goals without compromising performance or safety.

Chris Lett, renowned tyre recycler and founder of Branigans Tyres Southport discusses key elements on Green Tyres and the science behind Eco-friendly tyres.

“If drivers know that their tyres will only last a couple of months owing to bad road conditions,” says Lett. Chris also adds that “there’s just no point in buying a brand new tyre or one with enough tread to last a year or more.”

Several eco-tyres offer better grip and fuel economy than conventional rubber compounds. There are, therefore, three Rs to remember when choosing environmentally friendly tyres: Reduce, Reuse and Recycle.

Eco-friendly tyres use new synthetic compounds and silica rubber. The resulting tyres combine a lower weight with improved strength to improve performance through the superior grip.

In conventional tyres, silica reduces friction. As carbon molecules disperse rather than clump together and release heat, eco-tyres reduce emissions and extend tyre life.

Manufacturers of tyres have investigated a range of latex substitutes, including the natural latex produced by dandelion plants. This sustainable resource could be the future of e-friendly tyre production. Raw materials, therefore, lay a significant role in eco-friendly tyres.

“It’s great that people are willing to pay more for greener options, but if they follow the principles of ‘reduce, reuse, recycle,’ being green will very often cost less,” said Lett, who added that “Branigans does all three, and the savings are passed on to its clients.”

The second R stands for rolling resistance. This is the force needed to get a tyre rolling. Environmentally friendly tyres have lower rolling resistance, requiring less force and fuel to set them rolling. The advantage of green tyres is the fuel savings of up to 5.7 per cent in their eco-friendly tyres.

“Good quality tyres improve fuel efficiency,” explains Lett, “and if the car is more fuel-efficient, it also produces fewer emissions while being cheaper to run.” This not only reduces the environmental footprint but also saves money.

“Using fewer resources to produce a product maybe environmentally-friendly and cost-saving at once,” says Lett. Lett added that “choosing new or nearly new things that would otherwise have been thrown away is almost always cheaper.”

Premium tyre manufacturers boast about using, the third R, recycled materials. The Australian Southport tyre expert, Lett, said, “There are many ways to recycle old tyres nowadays”.

Therefore, do not be surprised if you see the R-word on the label. Using recycled rubber is a sustainable way to reduce waste, while recycling tyres contributes to closed-loop manufacturing that is environmentally friendly.

Lett added, “Some of the big tyre manufacturing companies are working on improving life span and recyclability through using different designs and materials”.

Worn out tyres are used for everything from roof tiles and rubberised road surfaces to carpet underlay and school playgrounds.

Ask your nearest Branigans Tyres workshop about their environmentally friendly tyre options.

Branigans Tyres has well-established workshops in Burleigh Heads and Southport in the Gold Coast region. Check out their full range of services or current featured promotions. Branigans award-winning affordable tyre subscriptions package starts at $7.97 and helps motorists budget for their ongoing tyre needs.

Vehicle owners are encouraged to drive in at their convenience as no pre-bookings or appointments are required. The branches are Burleigh Heads: (07) 5535 2660 situated at 13 Flagstone Drive or Southport: (07) 5591 8633 located at 1/277 Southport-Nerang Rd.

Written and syndicated by YDMA News.

Your car’s tyres are the most crucial component of its overall health. They support the vehicle’s weight and keep it rolling smoothly. Having the proper tyre maintenance can help keep your car running smoothly.

Australian tyre recycler and founder of Branigans Tyres, Chris Lett, explains the importance of maintaining and inspecting a vehicles wheel alignment and braking system.

A motorist’s steering wheel can also shake if its braking pads are contaminated with oil or dirt. This can happen even if the pads are not damaged. Regular use of brake dust and other debris can also accelerate the deterioration of your tyres. A good-quality tyre-dressing product can help keep them looking their best for longer. “A quick blast with a pressure washer can remove all that grime and prevent your tyres from looking older for longer,” adds Lett.

“Aside from regular mechanical problems, there are also various reasons that can cause a vehicle to shake when braking,” says Lett. In most cases, this issue can make it unsafe to drive. “Fortunately, there are many factors that can help prevent this issue from happening again,” says Lett.

A vehicle’s components should regularly be inspected to prevent issues such as uneven tread wear and faulty brakes.

“It is crucial that motorists inspect the vehicle’s braking system and brake pads,” says Lett. Faulty shocks and brake pads can cause uneven tread wear and flat spots on the road. “Having them regularly inspected can help keep them in working order,” Lett adds.

“An alignment is a process that corrects the angles of tyres so that can come into contact with the roadway in the right way,” says Lett, “it can also prevent tyre wear and improve a smoother ride.

Proper wheel alignment is crucial to prevent premature wear on the inner surfaces of tyres. “Ideally, the wheels should be aligned with the rest of the vehicle,” says Lett, “if the wheels are out of balance, the tyres will eventually suffer”.

“There are many signs to look out for when considering wheel alignment, such as the steering wheel is steering the vehicle to one side of the road as it’s pulling; and worn tyre tread,” says Lett.

Branigans Tyres has well-established workshops in Burleigh Heads and Southport in the Gold Coast region. Check out their full range of services or current featured promotions. Branigans award-winning affordable tyre subscriptions package starts at $7.97 and helps motorists budget for their ongoing tyre needs.

Vehicle owners are encouraged to drive in at their convenience as no pre-bookings or appointments are required. The branches are Burleigh Heads: (07) 5535 2660 situated at 13 Flagstone Drive or Southport: (07) 5591 8633 located at 1/277 Southport-Nerang Rd.

Written and Syndicated by YDMA News.

Tyres can get damaged for a variety of reasons, such as wear that’s irregular or not being able to grip properly. This can happen even without the driver being aware.

Australian tyre recycler and founder of Branigans Tyres, Chris Lett, gives insight into identifying common tyre warning signs to prevent unnecessary accidents.

“Some of the most common kinds of issues include uneven wear, punctures, cracks, and impacts,” says Lett.

Lett explains how irregular wear, some of which are heel and toe wear, centre wear, and one-sided wear, occur.

Heel and toe wear is a pattern that appears when the tread is worn after normal usage. It’s caused by the forces that distort the treads surface. “Cross-grooves are also used to prevent water from pooling,” says Lett, “these are typically worn by people with low-profile tyres”.

“These components are important because tread grooves and sipes are required to prevent water damage and tread voids are formed to displace the water from the road,” Lett further adds, “a minor amount of heel and toe wear does not affect driving comfort. However, if the wear is more extensive, it could cause problems”.

The wear pattern on the wheels of high-powered cars can be seen in the areas where the vehicle accelerates. It can also be caused by the high levels of torque that can be produced by stopping or accelerating at low speeds.

“One-sided wear is usually caused by incorrect axle geometry, and it can develop over time and is the result of improper mounting,” says Lett. Many motorists do not realise that “lowering the vehicle’s height can also affect its wheel alignment,” says Lett. In addition, having low-profile tires can also cause the wheels to deviate from their intended position

“Ignoring the damage caused by improper maintenance increases the risk of tyre failure in the future,” says Lett, this can usually be caused by either the tread and plies getting damaged or the sidewall getting torn apart”.

A cut on the tyre is not to be ignored. “This is often caused by external factors that have caused it to develop,” says Lett, “such as the road conditions and protruding bodywork components.

Punctures are commonly an obvious tyre failure to take note of. Punctures are often caused because of sharp objects hitting the tyre’s surface. “If they get deep enough, the vehicle could lose its air pressure,” says Lett, “having a tyre specialist inspect and repair it could help prevent this issue”.

“There are many ways to prevent tyre damage,” says Lett. Ideally, the position of the tyres should be rotated at regular intervals to promote even tyre wear. “This ensures that they are positioned correctly to prevent damage,” says Lett.

Lett explains that rotating tyres on a regular basis, will result in a uniform pattern of wear across all tyres. “If possible, avoid an obstacle while driving and approach it slowly. Also, check the tyres for exterior damage,” Lett adds.

Branigans Tyres has well-established workshops in Burleigh Heads and Southport in the Gold Coast region. Check out their full range of services or current featured promotions. Branigans award-winning affordable tyre subscriptions package starts at $7.97 and helps motorists budget for their ongoing tyre needs.

Vehicle owners are encouraged to drive in at their convenience as no pre-bookings or appointments are required. The branches are Burleigh Heads: (07) 5535 2660 situated at 13 Flagstone Drive or Southport: (07) 5591 8633 located at 1/277 Southport-Nerang Rd.

Written and Syndicated by YDMA News.

Tyre guides are designed to help motorists keep up with the latest information about the tyres, and teach motorists to identify potential issues and how to perform repairs efficiently.

Australian tyre recycler and owner of Branigans Tyres, Chris Lett, advises motorists on cost-effective ways to maintain and sustain a vehicle’s tyres.

Having the right tyres can improve the vehicles safety and fuel economy. “It’s also beneficial for overall running costs,” says Lett. Having the proper tyre knowledge can help prevent a blowout.

It is expensive to replace a car’s tyres. In order to avoid experiencing the wear and tear that comes with them, it is important to regularly check the tread depth to ensure that the vehicle can grip in wet conditions.

If you have recently repaired a damaged tyre, this can also affect the type of work that’s performed on it and whether it’s considered legal.

When you buy new tyres, they will have numbers printed on their side walls, which shows the size, type of tread, and what speeds the tyres can reach. “These numbers can help motorists to make an educated choice when it comes to choosing replacement tyres,” says Lett.

Since most cars are front wheel drive, the front tyres tend to wear faster than the rears. “Having the rears replaced sooner can help prevent this issue,” says Lett.

“If vehicle owners decide to change the rears to the front, make sure that the fronts are placed on the rear left and rear right,” says Lett, “this will help the tyres maintain their evenly worn state and prevent premature wear”. It is important to check the tyre pressure of the vehicle at least once a month.

The pressure of the tyres should regularly be inspected to ensure it is properly inflated. Branigans Tyres can help keep the pressure on the tyres at a safe level. “Wheel alignment can also help prevent the sudden wear and damage of tyres,” says Lett. It can also help keep the road balanced and improve fuel efficiency.

When it comes to choosing a new tyre, choosing the right one can be a bit challenging. Branigans Tyres offers a range of advice and assistance to help guide motorists through the process.

The law requires that you have the correct type and size of tyres for your vehicle. “This is because the tread depth is the minimum distance that the tire can cover before it gets damaged,” says Lett.

It is crucial that drivers select the right tyre for their vehicle. Having the proper type of tyre will help prevent tyre wear and improve its longevity. It is also important that the vehicle is regularly checked for its general condition.

Branigans Tyres has well-established workshops in Burleigh Heads and Southport in the Gold Coast region. Check out their full range of services or current featured promotions. Branigans award-winning affordable tyre subscriptions package starts at $7.97 and helps motorists budget for their ongoing tyre needs.

Vehicle owners are encouraged to drive in at their convenience as no pre-bookings or appointments are required. The branches are Burleigh Heads: (07) 5535 2660 situated at 13 Flagstone Drive or Southport: (07) 5591 8633 located at 1/277 Southport-Nerang Rd.

Written and syndicated by YDMA News.

Factors such as your driving style, road conditions and tire design will affect the answer. Also, the more frequently you use a car, the more likely it is to tyre out.

The motorists are responsible for the care and maintenance of the tyres on the vehicle, and to make sure that they are well-equipped to handle the weather and wear.

Australian tyre recycler and owner of Branigans Tyres, Chris Lett, provides input on the importance of tyre maintenance.

Lett provides significant guidelines for motorists to help to determine the maximum service life of tyres. “If motorists have any questions regarding the vehicle’s tyres, or want to speak to a professional, motorists can always contact a local Branigans Tyre centre,” says Lett.

It is important for tyre retailers and service centres to offer a variety of high-quality tyres for different applications. “Tyres are designed to provide long-term protection and are made to last for thousands of miles,” says Lett.

The factors that determine the longevity of the tyres are often interrelated. Aside from the pressures and load, motorists also have to consider the proper storage of these components. The vehicle’s service life is determined by the various conditions that it encounters during its daily use,” says Lett, “these include inflation pressure, road hazard damage, and tyre rotation,”.

“Having proper maintenance done can help extend the longevity of the tyres,” adds Lett. Regular maintenance can help keep the tyres in good condition. “Having these checks done can help prevent the premature purchase of replacement tyres,” says Lett.

Performing regular tyre pressure checks is important to maintain proper tyre life. It is also a good idea to check tread wear to check for signs of wear.

“Ideally, check the tyre pressure regularly and rotate the tyres evenly to keep them in place,” says Lett. Also, keep the wheels aligned and tread wear checked to prevent visible damage.

Although it may appear like a good idea to replace a worn tyre, it is still important to check its condition once a year. “Aside from age, regular maintenance also helps prevent tread and rubber cracking,” says Lett.

Even though a car’s tyres may seem fine for driving, it should still be replaced once the tyres reach the age of ten. “This is because the wear and tear of these tyres can affect the longevity,” says Lett.

Some vehicle manufacturers may suggest a different age at which to replace a tyre. This is because of their understanding of the vehicle’s specific application.

Most of the time, worn tyres will require replacement even if the removal period is stated on the vehicle. “It is still the responsibility of the driver to ensure that the worn tyres are replaced when needed,” says Lett.

Branigans Tyres has well-established workshops in Burleigh Heads and Southport in the Gold Coast region. Check out their full range of services or current featured promotions. Branigans award-winning affordable tyre subscriptions package starts at $7.97 and helps motorists budget for their ongoing tyre needs.

Vehicle owners are encouraged to drive in at their convenience as no pre-bookings or appointments are required. The branches are Burleigh Heads: (07) 5535 2660 situated at 13 Flagstone Drive or Southport: (07) 5591 8633 located at 1/277 Southport-Nerang Rd.

Written and syndicated by YDMA News.

Every tyre has an expiration date, however tyres can be recycled and reused. The quality of recycled tyres can be as good as new, says Australian tyre recycler and owner of Branigans Tyres, Chris Lett.

When buying a new tyre, ask for the manufacturer’s code or 11 characters on the inside of the tyre. This code can tell you the tyre’s lifespan and the date it was manufactured.

Some tyre manufacturers have started to mark the date on the outside of the tyre so that it does not require removing the wheel. This information is essential to know when inspecting a tyre.

Most people who gamble on keeping their vehicles on outdated tires are saving money. Doing so can save them from getting into an accident, and it is also safer for the other drivers.

The expiry date of a vehicle tyre depends on a variety of factors and is not linked to the date of manufacture.

How to read a tyre

A tyre’s sidewall provides a variety of useful information about the vehicle. This includes the model name, the type of tyre, the construction, the speed rating, and many more.

“To find out the tyre size that is suitable for your car, check the tyre’s designation on the sidewall,” says Lett. Further details about the tyre’s size are also listed in the Certification of Conformity (CoC) document. For example, if the tyre has the designation 205/55R16, it will have a nominal width of 205 mm. Its aspect ratio will be calculated as a percentage.

The rim diameter is the distance between the outer rim edge and the rim edge. It is usually calculated by adding the tyre’s designation before the rim diameter is indicated.

These are the radial tyres that are commonly used on the road. They have a radial sidewall and are angled in a radial direction. Due to the angle at which the cords are positioned, they are harder overall. The radial tyre is a type of vehicle tyre that is usually used on our roads,” says Lett. It has a steel and nylon cord that is placed on the right angle to the direction of travel.

Tyre weight index: “A vehicle’s tyre load index shows the maximum carrying capacity of its tyres. It does so by taking into account the weight of the vehicle it is carrying,” says Lett. For example, a tyre with a load index of 91 can weigh approximately 615 kilograms.

The speed rating shows the maximum speed a tyre can achieve while being used under load. It is the letter at the top of the sidewall that indicates the load index number. “When buying new tyres, ensure that the speed rating of the vehicle you are purchasing is the same as the speed capabilities of the tyres,” says Lett.

Branigans Tyres has well-established workshops in Burleigh Heads and Southport in the Gold Coast region. Check out their full range of services or current featured promotions. Branigans award-winning affordable tyre subscriptions package starts at $7.97 and helps motorists budget for their ongoing tyre needs.

Vehicle owners are encouraged to drive in at their convenience as no pre-bookings or appointments are required. The branches are Burleigh Heads: (07) 5535 2660 situated at 13 Flagstone Drive or Southport: (07) 5591 8633 located at 1/277 Southport-Nerang Rd.

Written and syndicated by YDMA News.

Nitrogen gas is a non-combustible gas that does not damage the tyre’s rubber and has been used in race cars and other industrial vehicles for a long time. Aside from the apparent advantages of filling up your vehicle’s tyres with nitrogen, there are other reasons to do so.

Australian tyre recycler and founder of Branigans Tyres, Chris Lett, provides insight into the benefits of nitrogen gas in tyres. It is crucial to consider the safety and benefits of nitrogen gas when it comes to road safety. There is evidence that nitrogen tyre inflation is better for road safety.

Lett explains the benefits of nitrogen in tyres. “The key benefit of nitrogen is that it can escape through the inner lining of a tyre at a slow rate, allowing it to cool down the vehicle’s running a temperature,” says Chris. An increase in nitrogen content in a tyre can help prevent its pressure loss.

Nitrogen-inflated tyres have a cooler running temperature than those with air. This benefit can increase their tread life and improve road handling. “It could take up to six months for a tyre to lose its pressure after being filled with nitrogen,” says Chris.

READ: Nitrogen Versus Compressed Air: The Better Option for Tyres

As the temperature rises, the tyre’s footprint gets smaller, reducing the grip they have on the road. In addition, “nitrogen helps reduce road corrosion because it doesn’t contain moisture,” adds Chris.

The most common reasons for a blow-out are poor condition, overloading, and under-inflation. Nitrogen can help retain pressure for a long time.

Having a regular check of tire pressure is also important to prevent excessive wear. “It is also important to maintain the proper tire pressure to prevent the wheel from losing its grip,” says Chris.

Nitrogen tyres are more durable and maintain their pressure for longer. “Nitrogen has a molecular structure that allows it to escape through the tyre’s tubular structure,” says Chris. This allows the nitrogen to maintain its pressure for a long time.

READ: 10 Vital Tyres Facts

When the tyre gets hot, its inflation pressure increases. This causes the part that touches the road to shrink. When the temperature rises, the pressure builds on the tyre. “This causes the tread to get smaller, which can affect the grip of the car,” says Chris.

Availability & Affordability

Until recently, the practice of filling vehicle tyres with nitrogen was not widely practiced. This is mainly due to the cost involved in doing so. Today, machines that are used to store and inflate tyres are becoming more prevalent.

Changing to nitrogen involves taking off all the air that’s already in the tyres and re-inflating them with compressed nitrogen. This procedure is similar to the process of changing tyres.

Branigans Tyres has well-established workshops in Burleigh Heads and Southport in the Gold Coast region. Check out their full range of services or current featured promotions. Branigans award-winning affordable tyre subscriptions package starts at $7.97 and helps motorists budget for their ongoing tyre needs.

Vehicle owners are encouraged to drive in at their convenience as no pre-bookings or appointments are required. The branches are Burleigh Heads: (07) 5535 2660 situated at 13 Flagstone Drive or Southport: (07) 5591 8633 located at 1/277 Southport-Nerang Rd.

Syndicated by: YDMA News.

There are a few things Tyre Service Centres should consider to guarantee excellent client service. Chris Lett, owner of Branigans Tyres and Australian Tyre Recycler, shares his passion and expertise in providing and ensuring excellent service to clients.

Service efficiency

Good customer service involves quality and timely assistance to accommodate clients. A one-stop-shop service centre allows all clients needs to be efficiently and conveniently met. “Customer service ranges from aiding customers with purchases to solving their tyre problems,” says Lett.

By respecting the environment and clients “recycled tyres are offered with the same quality as new tyres, while still offering less” says Lett. “Low cost efficiency does not influence our quality standards, ” says Lett.

Budget friendly services not only improves the relationship with clients, but also guarantees customer loyalty. A benchmark for a successful business. “Monthly promotions are also offered to valuable customers” says Lett.

Client satisfaction

Efficient service guarantees client satisfaction. “Customer satisfaction is of utmost importance,” says Lett, “excellent service for all is guaranteed”.

As a business, “it is exceptionally important to build a relationship with clients, this gives the mission of the work a purpose,” says Lett.

Staff

The passion for tyres is developed through proactive work among hard-working employees who share the same values and principles. “The services offered is 100% proactive as close attention is paid to customer needs,” says Lett, “and  “clients are assured that all work is done properly the first time”.

Hard-working and reliable staff that can solve all problems regarding tyres, ensures an efficient service to clients. “The trusted staff is at the heart of Branigans Tyres,” says Lett, “the staff is reliable, professional and initiates their expertise into the work they enjoy to satisfy customer needs.”

The environment that is created by employees is crucial for the stability and functionality of a service. “The working environment at Branigans Tyres is friendly and stress free, all the staff have everything under control and work coherently with one another,” says Lett, “the customer service professionals are responsible for ensuring customers have a good experience by fulfilling their needs.”

Safety

Tyres is an important feature in maintaining the safety of motorists. Therefore every motorist should leave a Tyre Centre workshop knowing that their safety is in check. Branigans is a trusted family business that prioritises customer safety and wellbeing on the roads. Tyre service centres, like Branigans Tyres that their “responsibility seriously to ensure the safety of the clients and their families,” says Lett.

Branigans Tyres has well-established workshops in Burleigh Heads and Southport in the Gold Coast region. Check out their full range of services or current featured promotions. Branigans award-winning affordable tyre subscriptions package start at $7.97 and help motorists budget for their ongoing tyre needs.

To guarantee customer satisfaction when it comes to tyre servicing and vehicle maintenance, vehicle owners are encouraged to drive in at their convenience as no pre-bookings or appointments are required. The branches are Burleigh Heads: (07) 5535 2660 situated at 13 Flagstone Drive or Southport: (07) 5591 8633 situated at 1/277 Southport-Nerang Rd.

Syndicated by: YDMA News, Your Digital Marketing Agency

Australian tyre recycler and owner of Branigans Tyres, Chris Lett, shares important advice for motorists to take precautionary measures for the safety of their tyres this holiday season.

The tyres optimal performance and safety are heavily impacted by the specific range of tyre pressure. The ideal tyre pressure depends on the make and model of the vehicle. The front and back tyres also require different tyre pressure values.

Vehicles have recommended tyre pressure value to give the car extra mileage and retain the quality and longevity of the tyres, this also saves fuel consumption.

A large amount of fuel consumption is also an important warning sign to the condition of tyres. “If you notice that you are having to refuel your vehicle more often than usual, it may be due to tyre pressure,” says Lett.

Factors that contribute to tyre pressure are the “weight of the load as well as driving speed,” says Lett.

Tyre pressure is exceptionally important as it affects the quality of the vehicles performance, tyre wear and may lead to tyre bursts. Therefore, it “should be inspected on a regular basis,” says Lett.

For the extra long road, it is exceptionally important to check tyre pressure before the long road.

Tyres should be replaced or repaired when “you notice any signs of cuts, cracks, bulges or blisters on the side walls of the tyres,” says Lett. 

To measure the accuracy of the tyre pressure, the tyres should be inspected when the tyres are cooled. Warm tyres, caused by the friction between the road and the tyre, generates heat and increases tyre temperature and air pressure. This provides an inaccurate measurement of the condition of the tyre.

If the tyres are overinflated, it affects the handling of the vehicle. Underinflated tyres, on the other hand, may cause the tyre to wear off prematurely. Either way, the incorrect inflation of the tyre negatively affects the wear and performance of the vehicle.

Tyre pressure can affect braking control as underinflated tyres affects the traction of the tyres. “If you notice that your car is taking longer to come to a complete stop, it is recommended that you check the tyre pressure.

Signs of low tyre pressure also include vibrations. Excessive vibrations is an important indicator and warning sign of damaged tyres. This can be due to misalignment, unbalanced or bent wheels.

Less air in the tyre air chambers, may lead to “a bumpy ride and bumps and ridges can be easily felt,” says Lett. This may feel like the shock absorbers are not working.

Branigans Tyres has well-established workshops in Burleigh Heads and Southport in the Gold Coast region. Check out their full range of services or current featured promotions. Branigans award-winning affordable tyre subscriptions package start at $7.97 and help motorists budget for their ongoing tyre needs.

To guarantee customer satisfaction when it comes to tyre servicing and vehicle maintenance, vehicle owners are encouraged to drive in at their convenience as no pre-bookings or appointments are required. The branches are Burleigh Heads: (07) 5535 2660 situated at 13 Flagstone Drive or Southport: (07) 5591 8633 situated at 1/277 Southport-Nerang Rd.

Syndicated by: YDMA News, Your Digital Marketing Agency

Tyres can be expensive, therefore it is important to maintain the condition of the tyres to ensure their longevity. Australian tyre recycler and owner of Branigans Tyres, Chris Lett, provides interesting tips to maintain and sustain one’s tyres.

Environmentally conscious

Branigans Tyres is an extraordinary tyre service centre as “[they] supply recycled tyres,” says Lett. Recycled tyres offer the same performance and value as a new manufactured and purchased tyre, but at a much more affordable price.

All tyres have to meet the safety requirements to ensure that motorists and their families are safe on the road. “Customers are guaranteed to leave the Branigans Tyres workshops secured and satisfied,” says Lett.

Staff goes the extra mile

It is crucial that tyre servicing centres, like Branigans Tyres, ensures and prioritises the safety of all customer vehicles, and offers sound advice to any customer queries. “The trained and experienced tyre specialists ensures that all customers leave the workshop knowing that they are in safe and reliable hands,” says Lett.

Lett believes, “great customer service means hands-on management and exceeding expectations, that’s why some clients are third-generation supporters of Branigans.” Branigans Tyres thrives on exceeding customer expectations. Such expectations are upheld by the investment in the growth and development of employees to strengthen customer service.

“The staff is at the heart of this family business, and share the same values and passion with customers,” says Lett. “The exceptional customer service is owed to the staff who often propose innovative ideas to customer queries, and have solutions to any problem,” Lett further adds.

Tyre maintenance services

“Branigans Tyre maintenance services ensures that customers receive the best performance and value for money out of their tyres,” says Lett.

In the age of technological development and convenience it is important for businesses to keep up with the development of advanced technology. Tyre specialists at Branigans Tyres are kept up-to-date with the latest tyre technology to ensure that the workshop is fitted with advanced equipment. This guarantees that all customer needs are consistently and exceedingly met.

There are “no limitations to what we are capable of. We solve and fix any problem,” says Lett. Instilling a problem solving attitude improves the growth of the business.

Tyre puncture repairs and free assessment

Branigans Tyres undertakes tyre puncture repairs that demand immediate attention. “We offer free assessments of tyres,” says Lett. If a slow puncture, for instance, is located in the tread area, the damage is relatively quick to fix.

Lett says that there are a few factors that influence the tyre mileage, such as tyre width and over inflation, and tread compound. “Wheel alignment and proper inflation is a quick and important fix,” says Lett.

Branigans Tyres has the solution for you.

Branigans Tyres has well-established workshops in Burleigh Heads and Southport in the Gold Coast region. Check out their full range of services or current featured promotions. Branigans award-winning affordable tyre subscriptions package start at $7.97 and help motorists budget for their ongoing tyre needs.

To guaranteed customer satisfaction when it comes to tyre servicing and vehicle maintenance, vehicle owners are encouraged to drive in at their convenience as no pre-bookings or appointments are required. The branches are Burleigh Heads: (07) 5535 2660 situated at 13 Flagstone Drive or Southport: (07) 5591 8633 situated at 1/277 Southport-Nerang Rd.