What is a tyre changer?
A tyre changer is a machine used to help tyre technicians dismount and mount tyres with automobile wheels. After the wheel and tyre assembly are removed from the automobile, the tyre changer has all the components necessary to remove and replace the tyre from the wheel.
What is the difference between semi-automatic Tyre changer and fully automatic tyre machine?
On a semi-automatic tyre changer, the mounting head is set in place using a locking screw and handle. The mounting head is on an arm that hinges at the top of the back column and allows the arm and mounting head to be swung over to the right to clear the tyre and allow you to remove it from the table.
On a fully automatic tyre changer, there is no difference in the way the turntable and bead breaker operate. It is the difference in set up of the mounting head that defines the difference in the two machines. Instead of locking into place manually and being on a hinge, the locking of the mounting head is controlled by compressed air. The operator manoeuvres the mounting head into place and then, with a single click of the button, pneumatically controlled locking plates ensure the mounting head is frozen in position both horizontally and vertically. The whole arm, including the mounting head is then moved by a press of the pedal, allowing the arm to tilt backwards and forwards. This is why fully automatic machines are often referred to as tilt back tyre changers.
Do I need an Assist Arm?
The Assist arm is helpful when you are dismounting low profile / stiff sidewall tyres and run flats. With the use of the assist arm dismounting the toughest tyres becomes a 1-person job rather than a 3-person job. The assist arm will save time and money while helping to prevent damage.
Should I use tyre lubrication?
Using lubes provides the following:
1) Reduces friction between the tyre beads and the edge of the rim during mounting/demounting.
2) It helps to seal around the bead during initial inflation of the tyre.
3) Friction between the bead seats and the tyre bead will be reduced when inflating the tyre. This is important so that the beads will be all of the way seated and the tyre tread will not be distorted. Remember – safety glasses should always be worn when inflating a tyre.
How do I know how to operate my tyre changer?
Every tyre changer comes with an owners/operation manual that provides the operator instructions. We have also compiled The top tips for tyre changing to help out with the principles of tyre changing and tyre changing safety.
Why is regular maintenance so important on a tyre changer?
Routine maintenance is necessary to operate a machine correctly and to prolong the life of the machine. If the machine is not maintained often, it will affect the operation and reliability of the tyre changer and may cause dangers to the operators or others near the operating area. Make sure to turn off the power supply and pneumatic source before you do maintenance. On a daily basis you will need to empty the water trap and blow away any dust on the machine. Weekly make sure that you clean the turntable by using diesel to remove grim and make sure to lubricate the clamping jaw guide rail. Check and fill oil lubricator. Failure to do maintenance will cause the tyre changer to breakdown, and this will result into loss of business.
How do I know what size wheels the tyre changers will handle?
Wheel size and clamping ranges are 2 different things. It is important to note that wheels vary by the width of the flange, lip of the wheel, type of material the wheel is made of etc. So when using a wheel clamping tyre changer you may need more range to do particular wheels. The clamping range is an accurate measurement but does not always coincide with the actual wheel size for the reasons mentioned above. If the largest wheel you think you will ever need to change is a 22” wheel then you may be safe with a 24” clamping range machine depending on the flange thickness of the rim. If you think you may need to change 24” wheels you may want to consider a 26” clamping range machine to allow proper clearance on different style wheels. Not all wheels are the same and they keep changing.
Motorcycle adapters also available.
What voltage/air do I need to operate a tyre changer?
Tyre changers from Integrated Marketing are single phase (220v) and require 8 – 10 bar or working air pressure. We also offer a manual tyre changer that requires no air or electricity to operate. Ideal for the rural areas in South Africa or where no electricity is available.
Do I need to use a air regulator when using a tyre changer?
YES! In order to keep your business flowing like a well-oiled machine, you need to have a well-oiled machine.
What types of tyres can be changed with a tyre changer?
Tyre changers can be used on a wide variety of tyres, including:
Passenger vehicle tyres
Light commercial vehicle tyres
Low-profile tyres
Run-flat tyres
Motorcycle tyres (with adapters)
Agricultural or off-road tyres (with specialized equipment)
Always ensure the machine you choose supports the tyre type and rim size you’ll work with most often.
Can tyre changers damage alloy wheels?
Yes, if used incorrectly. However, most modern tyre changers come with:
Nylon/plastic protectors for the mounting head
Rubber or plastic clamps on the jaws
Bead pressing tools designed to minimize damage
Using proper tyre lube and taking care during mounting/demounting also helps prevent scratching or marring.
What is a bead blaster and does my tyre changer need one?
A bead blaster is a high-pressure air system that helps seat stubborn tyre beads on the rim quickly and efficiently. It’s especially helpful for:
Wide-profile tyres
Stiff sidewalls
Tyres that don’t seat properly on inflation
Many of the tyre changers sold by Integrated Marketing come with a built-in bead blaster for convenience.
Can tyre changers be used without a compressor?
Only manual tyre changers can operate without compressed air. Standard and automatic changers require a compressor producing at least 8–10 bar to:
Run the bead breaker
Operate the clamping jaws
Control the tilt-back or swing arm functions
If you’re using a powered tyre changer, compressed air is essential.
Does Integrated Marketing offer tyre changer training?
Yes. We provide:
Operation manuals
Tyre changing guides
YouTube demonstration videos
We also offer after-sales support and can refer you to trusted technicians or on-site trainers if needed.