One of the concerns that I always had in the back of my mind is where to go and what to say to the tire shops to not get your wheels scratched or marked up during the actual tire install. Granted my L still has the factory wheels but they are very nice and almost mint in condition. The last thing I need is to have some careless tire tech just mark the hell of of my wheels.
I haven't had to change my tires yet on my L since it's been in storage but the time is approaching that I have to change all four. Any advice would be appreciated.

 

take close-up pics before and after the install

if one becomes damaged, tell them immediately and document it

-Mike

 

My track record at the local Les Scwabs has not been the best so this is what I do. When they ask for my keys I ask for the manager (he knows me now). I reiterate the fact that my rims are perfect and explain that I would like a little extra assurance that they will take care of my vehicle and I ask him to walk outside and we take some pictures of my wheels. Usually about that point they offer to let me drive it on and off the rack and I stand there and watch. It ticks off some of the younger guys and they refer me to the waiting room at which point I simply state that I'm fine and there is less chance of them messing up my truck if I just stay here and watch. The less they like it the closer I stand.

Two things, they don't mess up the wheels and they get it done as quick as they can.

Scott

 

^^^That's some good advice right there.

 

Removal of the factory weights alone will generally leave marks. As I see the tech heading toward my vehicle, I stop them and ask if they will be providing my service. Then, I hand them a 10 dollar bill and ask if they could pay special attention to not damage the rims. Afterwards, I get out of their workspace, but stand outside the bay and inconspicuously watch them.

 

Typically you get what you pay for. Avoid stores like Sears and WalMart for tire service. In my experience they have the least competent people. If you don't believe me, just ask me how I came to that conclusion.

Look for a reputable shop that has been in business for a long time and stays very busy without lots of obnoxious advertising. The dumber they treat you when screaming at you in their radio ad, the dumber they expect you to be when you walk in the door. Then when you decide on a good shop you can follow the tips mentioned above.

 

As a contractor for Sears I can only assume we may have worked together, Or was it when I was at Wal-mart. j/k around.

Only wanted to comment on my previous post. If the tires are being rebalanced there is very little you/they (tire shop) to avoid scratching the wheel when removing/adding weight to the rim. That part has been unavoidable and isn't worth getting upset at the shop.

 

The fella that manages the tire store where I go owns a Viper and a Turbo Supra. Another of the guys working there has his 70 Nova drag racer with him at work every Friday....straight to the track after work. Both of them took a genuine interest in the old L. I've never had a problem with them.
I would say try to find a place that has at least one "enthusiast" vehicle in the parking lot.

 

Thanks for the great advice. At least I'm not alone in the way I feel about getting the wheels scratched up due to careless behavior. I've always wondered where and how those drivers that spend $2k or even $4k on just their wheels alone go to have their tires put on. That's the place I would much rather go but it will definately take some research. At least I've got some time before my the Goodyears that came with the L start showing some core. They're pretty toasty due to that alignment issue I had on the front drivers side but I have a bit of time. Again, much appreciated!!!

 

I just don't let my wife drive the L anymore after she pretty much ruined my factory rims with all the curbs she has hit. The tire shop is the least of my problems with rims..

 

You shouldnt have to pay EXTRA to make a service tech take care of your wheels...... ITS THEIR JOB not to damage them!

Because you did not disclose your location, i cant recomend anyone to you.. but as a good rule of thumb, whenever bringing your truck for service, tire swap etc etc.., grab the manager and have them do a "walk around inspection." MOST good shops will do this BEFORE you can even ask them.. it's a way to cover their own azz! Especially these days when people (like myself) are getting 24+" wheels mounted and balanced..

 

I don't know. I don't think there is anything wrong with tipping in this situation. These guys for the most part are hard working individuals who could really use the extra cash. What goes around comes around.

 

yes, tip because you want to, NOT to insure a "good job."

 

BEst advice I can give and I live by it.
IF you want it done right do it yourself. All u need is a lug wrench and a jack to change tires. and you can take all the time you need to make sure it is done correctly.

I am pretty lucky though. I have a great rim shop that I have been using for years. They are the only place I 100% trust (ok besides PSP) to work on my truck. I just throw them the keys and leave. I know if something happens it was a pure accident and they will fix the problem to my satisfaction. If you are in NY i can refer you to them. I only let car enthusiast work on my car. If the guy changing your rims is driving a 1980 tercel with a spare tire, do you really think he cares about your car.

 

Hes talking about replacing and remounting and balancing new rubber... not pullin a wheel off.