The Tire Industry Association (TIA) has announced seven educational sessions for the Global Tire Expo – Powered by TIA at the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show, which runs Nov. 1 through Nov. 4, 2016, at the Las Vegas Convention Center.
The tentative schedule is as follows:
Tuesday, Nov. 1
TPMS: Next Step in TPMS Diagnostics, 10 a.m.–11 a.m.
Join TIA and guest speakers for the next step in tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) diagnostics. TIA will be showcasing OBDII Scan Tools and their role in TPMS diagnostics. We will be focusing on indirect TPMS diagnostics through the use of OBDII scan tools and live data. Whether you’re in the market for a new scan tool, or just want to learn how to use the one you have to its full potential, then this seminar is for you. Learn how to fix the vehicles the “other guy” had to turn away.
Truck Tires: Reinforced Shoulder Repairs in the Field, 10 a.m.–11 a.m.
For the past few decades, small punctures in the shoulder area have been sent in for a section repair because the dealer couldn't repair them in the field. The recently released reinforced shoulder repair (RSR) guidelines from the Tread Rubber and Repair Manufacturers Group (TRMG) make it possible for commercial retailers to repair small injuries in the shoulder with standard tire repair tools. This session will explain the limits for an RSR repair, the additional materials required, and the procedures for positioning the repair unit.
Successful Tire Dealers Share their Secrets, 2 p.m.–3:30 p.m.
Each year, tire dealers are honored by the tire industry trade publications for their contributions to the industry and their communities. The Modern Tire Dealer Tire Dealer of the Year, and the Tire Business Humanitarian Award winner, and Tire Review Top Shop winner are invited to share their thoughts on what has made them successful. It's the longest-running session in the history of TIA, ITRA, TANA, ARA, and NTDRA because tire dealers love to hear what works from other tire dealers. The question and answer session has helped a lot of attendees over the years, so it's developed a following.
Wednesday, Nov. 2
Automotive Tire Service (ATS) Training Program, 10 a.m.–11 a.m.
TIA has updated its Automotive Tire Service (ATS) training program. This program trains instructors and technicians on all aspects of automotive tire service in the shop. It takes them through basic tire construction all way up to advanced TPMS diagnostics. This new update shows newer vehicle systems, relays the advances in shop technology, and provides those who compete the program the understanding they need in order to fulfill their role as an industry professional. A panel of TIA trainers will highlight the ATS update to seminar attendees and give a sneak peek of the new program.
Truck Tires: The Facts about Torquing Wheels, 10 a.m.–11 a.m.
More and more fleets are asking commercial truck tire dealers to torque the wheels when the tires are serviced. While there are a lot of different methods for applying that torque, the factors associated with the RIST procedure are still going to determine whether the assemblies remain attached to the axle or come loose. This session will explain each step of the RIST procedure before taking an in-depth look at how torque results in the level of clamping force that is created between the wheel and the hub. Everything from impact tools to torque sticks and torque wrenches will be discussed along with the pros and cons of each approach. If installing truck tire and wheel assemblies is part of your business, don't miss these facts about torquing wheels.
TIA’s 2016 Legislative Review: The Issues that Affect You and How to Protect your Bottom Line, Noon-1 p.m.
With increased fines, penalties, enforcement, laws, and guidelines, the tire industry should be concerned with the legislative and regulatory climate. With an ever-changing industry, there are more questions now than ever before on what the future holds for your business. A variety of pending issues and legislation will be addressed in this session including tire recall recovery reform (tire registration), LIFO repeal, Estate Tax repeal efforts, Marketplace Fairness (internet sales), Obamacare, proposed overtime changes, working families social legislation (paid leave, minimum wage), OSHA inspections, IRS audits, used tire sales, tire aging, Chinese tariffs, and annual safety inspections. At the session, TIA will distribute legislative materials, answer questions, and provide an overview of the legislative climate moving forward and the opportunities TIA members have to stay informed and get involved with issues that will affect their bottom line.
Management: Improving Sales and Profits, 2 p.m.–3 p.m.
Tire retailing is a competitive business and price is always a factor. The key to success is learning to sell value so price becomes secondary. This session will focus on techniques and ideas that retail tire dealers can use to help them increase car count and total sales. Every business is looking for higher sales and more profits, the key to success is often related to small adjustments that lead to bigger and better opportunities. It's always good to step outside your business and look at it from another point of view. This is your chance to learn and apply that knowledge to your balance sheet.
For more information, visit www.tireindustry.org.
