Frequently Asked Questions

An MOT Bay is a place where vehicles can be tested for their MOT requirements. The garage will usually have a vehicle lift or inspection pit where vehicles can be fully inspected and have their MOT requirements checked to ensure they comply.

Some of the MOT tests for vehicles in the UK include testing the wheels, brakes, vehicle emissions and headlight adjustments for example.
MOT garages are a great place to have your vehicle checked and repaired if it needs it. They are also a good place to get information about the MOT regulations and keep up to date with current MOT laws also.

However not all garages are qualified to perform MOT tests and as a vehicle user, it is important to check that the garage you choose has all of the required equipment and training to do the MOT test correctly.
Any garage who have the experience, training and equipment to perform vehicle MOT inspections, naturally gets more work, as cars, motorcycles and other vehicles are being checked more frequently on their premises.
MOT bays were originally designed to provide motor vehicle testing and repair services. They are now used primarily as car repair shops, and often advertise their services as MOT bays. Most of the largest MOT bays in the UK are franchised dealerships, although some independent garages and small chains also offer MOT testing. The majority of smaller MOT bays can be found in local independent garages.

Over the years, MOT bays have evolved into a one-stop shop for all your vehicle needs. Whether you need a full service, a diagnostic, or a simple tyre rotation, you can pop into an MOT bay and get everything you need under one roof. No need to call out different specialists for different jobs, just head to an MOT bay and get all the vehicle services you need in one place.

MOT bays, also known as MOT testing stations or car servicing stations, are the locations where vehicles are inspected for roadworthiness—also known as an MOT test.

Learn More about MOT Bays and Equipment

The Automated Test Lane, or ATL, is an automated testing facility.

An ATL bay can perform multiple vehicle tests, such as a full vehicle inspection, a vehicle diagnostic and a vehicle service and is a great option for large vehicle services, such as oil changes, where it makes sense to have multiple services performed on a single vehicle.

An ATL bay can save time and money compared to having multiple services performed on multiple vehicles.

MOT Bays can be created in various configurations and lengths. The most fundamental part of planning to open a new MOT station is to ensure the premises are suitable for the class or classes of vehicle you wish to test.

The length of the MOT bay will be dependent on your choice of equipment and the premises. For example, an MOT bay has a standard configuration of the Headlamp Beam Tester, then the MOT Lift / Ramp, and then the Roller Brake Tester (RBT).

Another important factor to consider will be is whether your MOT ramp is surface mounted or recessed. Again, this is dependent on the space available within your premises.

To get the full answer to this question, please click to read our full blog article "How long is an MOT Bay?"

Learn More about MOT Bay Lengths and Dimensions

The class of MOT Bay depends on the type of vehicles your garage intend to work on, as per the gov.uk website, and shown in the table below.

You will need to make sure that you have the correct training and qualifications to become an MOT tester in the first instance. Without the correct qualifications, you will not be approved by the Drivers and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA). You will also need to decide who should become the AEDM (Authorised Examiner Designated Manager).

If you have one site, then this would need to be a director or sole trader of the business. This person would also need additional training to carry out the role of AEDM.

The DVSA paperwork including the DVSA VT01 form needs to be completed to apply to set up or change an MOT test station, including becoming an Authorised Examiner (the person or business that runs it).

You will also require premises that comply with the Drivers and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) regulations. For example, you will need the height, length and width required for the classes of vehicles you would be testing. Also that the door and any openings to the MOT bay in and out meet the minimum width and height required.

There is a lot to think about before taking on any commitment with premises. You are strongly advised to have these important dimensions checked by a qualified competent person before deciding on any premises.

Once you have decided on the training and the premises meet the required dimensions you will need to think about the range of equipment you would like to become an approved MOT test Centre. The range of equipment can be…

• Vehicle MOT lift, Ramps or Inspection Pit
• Headlamp Beam Tester
• Roller Brake Tester
• Emissions Tester
• Decelerometer
• Various hand-held tools
• Tool board and signage

This is not a list of every possible piece of MOT Bay Equipment you may need, as every MOT Bay is different, but please call us today to discuss how we can help you set up or upgrade your MOT Bay 0113 469 0572.

From 1st October 2019, The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA), in association with the Garage Equipment Association (GEA) announced they would be enforcing the use of Connected Equipment for MOT testing across the UK, meaning that all new or replacement MOT testing equipment must be able to connect to this new electronic recording service.

However, due to the number of garages, manufacturers and pieces of equipment involved, the rollout of this new legislation was to be phased in over several years, from the proof of concept in Q3 2018, the first piece of equipment this applies to in a live environment was roller brake testers (RBTs). The rule applied to all new or replaced RBTs from 1 October 2019.

Learn More about MOT Connected Equipment

No!

If your company already has an MOT bay and is simply adding a new director to their company then they do not need to upgrade to connected equipment.

However if in any doubt, please contact us at 0113 469 0572 today or post your question on either our contact form or even one of our social media channels we will be happy to answer all of your questions, to ensure you are kept legal, and safe in your garage or MOT business.

DVSA VT01 form must be completed to apply to set up or change an MOT test station, including becoming an Authorised Examiner (the person or business that runs it).

You can download the VT01 form from the gov.uk website publications section regarding the VT01 application process following.

There are a number of things you must do, before completing the VT01 form itself:

• Choose your MOT Equipment Supplier
• Gain the MOT Bays dimensions
• Decide who will be your Authorised Examiner Designated Manager (AEDM)
• Complete an MOT tester (AEDM) or manager training course
• Set up an account on the DVSA MOT Testing Service System (MTS)
• Collect additional information, plans and solicitor's letter

Following these steps, you will be in a position to complete the DVSA VT01 Document and then move to install your MOT Garage Equipment.

To get more detailed information about each of these steps towards completing the VT01 form, and an example of the form itself, see read our full blog post "VT01 Form – Setting Up an MOT Test Station".

Need help with the VT01 Form?

Call us today on 0113 469 0572 or use the website contact form today, we are here to help.

An MOT ramp or MOT lift as they are called in the motor industry are in fact the same thing. The ramp or lift is a piece of equipment within a workshop or garage environment and allows the MOT tester to raise the vehicle from the floor to allow for access to the underside of the vehicle. The MOT ramp or MOT lift can come in different styles, for example, there are four post lifts or scissor lifts within an MOT bay.

The class of MOT lift (Bay) is dependent on what type of vehicles you wish to test.

For example, if your garage or workshop work on cars, you will be a class 4 MOT station.

If you work on cars and light commercials, then you would require class 7.

Installing any class MOT lift is dependent on the space available. You need to have the correct height, width, and length to determine which lift is the correct fit for your business.

There are different options when it comes to MOT ramps and what is the best one.

This all depends on if you are a working on a TPTL (Two Person Test Lane), ATL (Automated Test Lane) or OPTL (One Person Test Lane).

If you work on a TPTL you will have a ramp with radius turn plates on top of the platform.

If you work on a OPTL you will have radius turn plates plus a play detector within your platform.

To be an ATL test centre you will have the required ATL brake tester which makes your MOT bay fully automated (ATL).

An MOT Bay Package is a range of equipment approved by the Drivers and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) and is located normally within a workshop or garage setting. It allows a qualified ministry of transport (MOT) tester to carry out the MOT test on a vehicle. This ensures vehicles on UK roads meet the legal standards set by the DVSA to drive on UK roads. If the vehicle doesn’t meet these standards, then the MOT tester will fail the vehicle giving the motorist the opportunity to rectify the problem and bring the vehicle back to MOT standards and allowing the MOT tester to issue a pass certificate.

The MOT Bay Packages supplied and fitted by Concept Garage Equipment can either be purchased online from our range of Class 1, Class 2, Class 4, Class 5 or Class 7 MOT Bay Packages or can be specifically designed to your specific MOT Bay requirements.

To design your MOT Bay Packages or to discuss your MOT Bay needs please call us today on 0113 469 0572.

The equipment on the MOT bay allows the MOT tester to test each part of the vehicle, and this can be supplied as an MOT Package, which can consist of one or more of the following pieces of MOT Equipment:

MOT headlamp beam tester

The MOT bay is equipped with a headlamp beam tester. The headlamp beam test ensures that the headlights of the vehicle are in the correct alignment whilst the vehicle is in motion. This part of the MOT test is to make sure that when the vehicle is been driven that its headlights don’t dazzle oncoming vehicles which could impair the vision of another motorist.

MOT Roller Brake Tester (RBT)

Other parts of the MOT test include testing the brakes using a roller brake tester (RBT). This piece of equipment tests the vehicle brakes whilst in motion. The tester will place the vehicle in the rollers and the RBT will spin at around 7mph giving the MOT tester the opportunity to test the brakes by using the equipment within the workshop setting.

MOT emissions analyser

Another piece of equipment used to carry out an MOT test is the emissions analyser. This test determines the level of air pollutants emitted from the exhaust of a motor vehicle. The goal of an emission test is to help reduce the number of pollutants that are harmful to the environment.

MOT Ramps

The vehicle lift or MOT ramp as it’s sometimes called allows the MOT tester to raise the vehicle from the floor to allow them to see under the vehicle to check joints, bushes and the exhaust system etc.

This is not an extensive list of every possible MOT Bay package we offer, as each one is different, but please call us today to discuss how we can help you set up or upgrade your MOT Testing Station on 0113 469 0572.

If you are ready to take your garage to the next level, increase your vehicle repair income and supply this essential service to your local car, van and motorcycle owners, then Concept Garage Equipment can supply the DVSA Approved MOT Bay Package to meet your needs.

Our vehicle MOT Bay Packages are designed to give you the maximum impact MOT Bay build in the minimum amount of time, as we will work with you from beginning to end, whether you have an existing garage business or are just starting out from an empty unit, we will help you to design, build, supply all the MOT Equipment and tools that you need to get your business giving you the biggest return on your investment before you know it.

If you need any advice on MOT Bay Packages or to discuss your garage needs please call us today on 0113 469 0572.

The MOT Bay itself consists of a number of pieces of essential MOT Equipment, however, there are also a number of ancillary tools that are used by MOT test centres to make the MOT test fast and efficient.

Some of these tools, include the following:

• MOT tool board (tool storage shadow panel boards)
• Tyre Depth Gauge
• Corrosion Assessment Tool (CAT), also known as the MOT hammer
• Lever and Pry bars
• Hand Lamps
• Brake Pipe Corrosion Tool
• Wire Brushes
• Turning radius plates
• Tapley or Bowmonk electronic brake efficiency test meters
• 13-pin Trailer Towing Socket tester
• MOT Notice Boards,
• Windscreen Damage Template
• Tyre Tread Width Gauge
• Brake Pedal Depressor
• MOT information posters
• MOT signs

Yes, an MOT tester will have a small hammer tool called a 'Corrosion Assessment Tool' or CAT for short, a VOSA-approved MOT test hammer.

The CAT is a VOSA-approved MOT test hammer that is used by MOT testers. It is a small tool that is used to check for corrosion on the car's surface. The CAT is used to check for signs of rust and corrosion on vehicle bodywork, including windows, bumpers, skirting and exhausts.

The actual head of this hammer is made out of a type of hard-wearing plastic which can be used only on suspect corroded and weakened areas of the vehicle. By using this type of MOT tool, you can avoid causing unnecessary damage to the surrounding surface adjacent to which you are using the Corrosion Assessment Tool (CAT).

Needless to say, a standard hammer cannot be used during an MOT test, and the tester cannot intentionally damage the chassis or vehicle bodywork, but only discover if there are hidden problems otherwise not seen to the naked eye, that may cause serious vehicle failure or danger in the coming year.

A wheel aligner is a mechanical device or machine used to align the wheels of a vehicle.  Some wheel aligners are simple lasers that are bolted to a vehicle wheel and shine a straight laser line to the other wheel on that side of the vehicle to assess whether the wheels are in line.  Other more advanced wheel aligners, often called CCD aligners, use a combination of lasers, cameras and computer-controlled software to make accurate measurements of the wheel positions both against each other and to the manufacturer's recommendations, usually stored in a database as part of the wheel aligner software program.

The correct wheel aligner depends on a number of factors:

• what kind and size of vehicle do you intend to align the wheels on?
• how accurate you would like the alignment of the wheels to be?
• what space do you have for the aligner?
• what budget do you have to spend on a wheel alignment machine?
• how many wheel alignments will you be doing per day?

If you wish to discuss your wheel aligner requirements we can help you decide on the best wheel aligner for your garage or MOT Bay, please contact us on 0113 469 0572.

In this video by Topdon, you will be shown how to perform ADAS (Advanced Driver Assist Systems) Calibration on 2017 Toyota Highlander. The Phoenix Mobile ADAS is compatible with most of Topdon's Phoenix Series diagnostic scanners.

Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) refers to systems that use various sensors, including cameras and radar, to help the driver with safety-critical functions.

ADAS can provide a variety of benefits to the driver, such as warning him or her of impending collisions, adjusting speed, automated braking, changing lanes for him, and providing directions. ADAS also forms part of the key systems in cars with autonomous driving capability.

Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) calibration is a process that adjusts the performance of a vehicle's electronic systems and aligns the sensors to match the surrounding environment. The purpose of an ADAS calibration is to ensure the vehicle operates within the specified parameters set by the manufacturer.

Play detectors or Shaker Plates are hydraulically operated devices that are fitted to a vehicle lift or inspection pit.

The wheel play detectors are used by mechanics to check for wear and play in suspension and steering joint components.  To do this, they move the wheel in different directions.

Play detectors are used for use in one-man testing. Shaker Plates test the vehicle steering and suspension and are available as standalone items, which can be used with pit-based ATL bays, or you have the option of adding it to your current lift.

Play detectors are an essential part of automated testing.

A wheel play detector can detect when the car is out of alignment and shake the wheel to correct it.

Emissions testers are machines responsible for ensuring that vehicles meet emissions standards. They test the emissions of vehicles, collect data, and report the results to the garage and DVLA as part of the MOT. They are used by garage mechanics and MOT Bay engineers, vehicle manufacturers, and vehicle testing facilities.

As part of the DVSA rollout of connected MOT equipment, from 1 May 2021, exhaust gas analysers and diesel smoke meters have been able to connect directly to the MOT testing service, and for any new MOT Bay or an MOT Bay under new ownership, the Emissions Tester has to be connected.

The goal of an emission test is to help reduce the number of harmful pollutants in the environment, in order to lower the overall impact humans have on the planet.

An emission test is an important measure in determining the number of air pollutants that are emitted from the exhaust of a motor vehicle. The pollutants are measured against standards set by the government to ensure that they are within acceptable limits. If the levels of pollutants are too high, the vehicle may be required to undergo repairs or retrofitting in order to reduce the emissions. The emission test is important to help keep the air clean and protect the environment.

Most vehicles have their exhaust emissions tested as part of the annual MOT in the UK.

Usually, the emissions are tested using an emissions tester also known as a gas analyser.

According to the DVSA, petrol vehicles used before August 1975 and diesel vehicles used before January 1980 are tested by sight only.

If a vehicle fails the emission test as part of the MOT then it is deemed to be unroadworthy. The problem must be rectified before the test can be re-done, and upon passing, the valud MOT certificate can be issued.

The only vehicles that do not have an emissions test as part of the MOT are:
vehicles with fewer than 4 wheels
vehicles with 2-stroke engines
hybrid vehicles
quadricycles
hydrogen fuel cell vehicles
electric vehicles

Headlight beam testers are specialized instruments used by vehicle headlights and taillights manufacturers, as well as by garages during MOT tests, to test the intensity, quality and angle of the light produced by vehicle headlights.

They are also used to test the shape, size, and colour of the light produced by the headlights and taillights, which is useful for product design and for making sure that the lighting output is uniform and does not cause glare. Headlight beam testers have become a standard industry instrument, with many vehicle manufacturers requiring their suppliers to use them when testing the headlights and taillights, as well as these being a necessity to any MOT Bay, as correct headlight adjustment is part of the UK MOT test.

Headlight Beam Testers work by projecting a beam of light into a headlight testing chamber. The headlight testing chamber is a box-like device that allows you to adjust the angle of the headlamp beam without affecting its output

The pattern of light is projected at a specific angle, which is measured by the headlight beam tester. The headlight beam tester will then measure the angle of the projected pattern of light, which is measured in either degrees or radians.

In March 2021, the DVSA issued a special notice: MOT special notice 01-21: headlamp conversions. This detailed changes to MOT testing rules for headlight conversions using high-intensity discharge (HID) or light-emitting diode (LED) bulbs.

This notice states that Class 1 and 2 motorcycles must not be failed for the defect ‘Light source and lamp not compatible’. Headlamps must comply with all other requirements of the test and headlamp aim. For class 3,4,5 and 7 vehicles, the defect ‘Light source and lamp not compatible’ only applies to vehicles first used on or after 1 April 1986. Should a vehicle be presented for an MOT test with conversions before 1 April 1986 they must not be failed with immediate effect. Vehicles presented with converted halogen headlamp units first used on or after 1 April 1986 will continue to be failed. Headlamps must comply with all other requirements of the test and headlamp aim.

There are three main types of roller brake testers:

• roller brake testers
• plate brake testers
• decelerometers

Plate brake testers are less popular but can be used for vehicles with permanent 4-wheel-drive systems, and consist of a moveable plate on each of 2 platforms, that the vehicle is driven onto, and then the braking motion allows the plates to move slightly to record the stopping ability of each of the vehicle wheels.

Roller brake testers are embedded into the ground such that they sit at the same level as the floor, they are equipped with rollers that rotate as the vehicle wheels are rotated on them, allowing for a more realistic simulation of driving and braking conditions.

Deceleromters are handheld electronic devices that can be taken in a vehicle during a test drive and brake test, and they will test the braking efficiency by calculating the rate of deceleration. This should be used where a plate brake tester or roller brake tester is unavailable or unsuitable.

Roller brake testers, also known as RBTs, are tools that measure how much braking force is being applied to a vehicle's wheels when they are being used.

Mechanics and Bodyshop engineers use these brake testers to test the brakes on vehicles and also by car manufacturers and brake manufacturers to test the performance of their products before they are shipped. Roller brake testers are also used in MOT Bays to try and ensure the vehicle brakes work to a suitable degree to pass the MOT Test.  A failure of the brakes can be fatal to the driver of a vehicle and therefore is one of the most important tests in the MOT.

To use a roller brake tester, the vehicle is driven over the rollers at a specific speed, and the tester measures the braking force applied by the vehicle’s brakes. This information is then used to calculate the braking efficiency of the vehicle and determine if it meets the necessary safety standards.

For more information please see our full blog post about Roller Brake Testers
https://concept-ge.co.uk/learn-earn-from-roller-brake-testers/

We have a range of garage equipment tyre changing packages online for you to view and purchase today.

Each garage equipment package comes with a tyre changer and wheel balancer, perfectly matched to suit your budget, giving quality equipment at a price that you can afford.  We also offer garage equipment finance for tyre changing packages, so that you can pay in regular instalments, but benefit from getting the tyre changing equipment as soon as possible, hence being able to start earning from the garage equipment, which effectively pays for itself, once paid for it's all profit for your garage, workshop or MOT Bay.

If you are in need of a tyre changer and wheel balancer, perhaps one of our comparative prices garage equipment packages is perfect for you, but if you are looking for something else, simply call us today on 0113 469 0572 and we guarantee we can create a tyre changing, garage equipment or MOT Bay package ideally suited to your needs and budget.

Our garage equipment packages all consist of tyre changers, wheel balancers and other garage equipment that can also be purchased individually, other online or by calling us directly on 0113 469 0572, we would be happy to help you.

As a garage owner of a new or existing garage or MOT Bay, the biggest and best investment you will make is the garage equipment that resides within your workshop.  Choosing the best equipment and the most suitable for the vehicle maintenance you intend to perform, the volume of vehicles you will be working on, and the number of tyres you are likely to be changing can be the difference between the success or failure of your garage business.

At Concept Garage Equipment we can help you make an informed choice about the garage equipment that you purchase, not only to meet your budget but to give you the best and quickest return on your investment, to make the garage equipment you choose to start working for you and paying your bills as soon as possible.

Choosing the correct garage equipment is only part of the choice you will need to make, how you finance it will be another, and we can help you to make that choice also and guide you step by step through the choices and options available for garage equipment financing.

As well as individual tyre changers, wheel balancers and vehicle lifts, Concept Garage Equipment can offer special deals on garage equipment packages, and can even help you design and build your MOT station from scratch, and see you through every step of the way until you open your doors on your new profitable MOT testing station garage business.

A vehicle lift, often known as a car lift, is the most common way to raise a vehicle to allow the mechanic to work underneath the vehicle.

The vehicle lift is a robust hard standing platform, with one or multiple supporting columns and is a common fixture in garages and MOT bays, and is used to service cars without an inspection pit.

These are not only used for car lifting, but also for lifting motorcycles, vans and commercial vehicles.

While there are many different types of automotive lifts, three of the most common are four-post lifts, two-post lifts and scissor lifts.

As the names suggest, the two and four-post lists have either 2 or 4 supporting columns, within which the edges or corners of the platform are supported, and the hydraulics within the lifting mechanism safely operates to raise or lower the lift.

The scissor lift does not have posts on the edge or side but instead has a scissor-like mechanism which raises and lowers the vehicle from directly beneath the platform upon which it rests.

However, even within these three main types, the specific design and configuration can vary, depending on the type of vehicle to be supported and the weight of the vehicles likely to be lifted.

Another type of vehicle lift is made specifically for motorcycle liftings and is known as a motorcycle lift, and this is a different style of scissor lift specifically made with the size, design and weight of motorcycles in mind.

Four Post Vehicle Lifts are often used in car dealerships, workshops, garages, and MOT stations to raise the vehicle from ground level and enable the car technician to access the underside of the vehicle being worked on with ease.

A 4 Post Lift is a lifting system that consists of four legs that support two platforms. The vehicle drives onto the platforms whilst at ground level. Then the platforms of the vehicle lift can be raised up allowing access to the underside of the vehicle. The 4 metal posts or sometimes called legs contain cables or metal screws that provide stability for the platform and are hydraulically or electronically controlled to raise and lower the platform. The four posts come with in-built safety locks to ensure no harm will come to the technician working under the vehicle in the event of a power outage. 4 post vehicle lifts can be installed into a recess or be surface mounted. This means that if the lift is recessed then the platforms are level with the ground. If the lift is surface mounted, then you have run-up ramps to allow for the vehicle to be driven up onto the platform.

The terms 4 post lift and 4 post ramp are often used interchangeably to mean the same thing, however, the 4-post ramp is a type of automotive lift that is indeed similar to a 4-post lift, but instead of being raised off the ground, the vehicle is driven up onto a ramp that is supported by four posts. The ramp is typically sloped, allowing the vehicle to be driven up onto it, and then the ramp is raised using hydraulic jacks or other lifting mechanisms. This type of lift is often used for vehicles that are too low to fit onto a traditional 4-post lift, or for vehicles that need to be lifted higher off the ground. Some 4-post ramps also have additional features, such as caster wheels or locking mechanisms, to make it easier to move the vehicle around while it is on the ramp.

The minimal concrete depth that we recommend for a 4-post lift installation is between 150mm (6 inches) and 250mm (10 inches).

The thickness of the concrete floor in your garage will depend on the weight of the 4-post lift and the vehicles that will be placed on it, as well as any other factors, such as the type of soil or subgrade beneath the concrete.

A four-post car lift is usually mounted onto an existing concrete surface, though this must be tested and confirmed as both level, and of a suitable depth prior to beginning the lift installation.

On occasions where the depth of concrete is found to be too thin, not structurally sound, or uneven, the existing floor may need to be dug out and relaid with deeper and correctly levelled concrete to meet the minimum requirements.

All four post car lifts must be thoroughly examined by a competent person before they are first used (as per HSE803/69). This could be by the installing garage equipment company for example.

And also a thorough examination of the 4 post car lift is also required following ‘exceptional circumstances’, for example, if a lift is damaged following improper use, failing parts that needed to be repaired or replaced, following a lift failure or fall, and following long periods of use.

Please note, the thorough examination of a four post car lift is not a replacement for the regular routine maintenance of the lift which must be completed regardless of usage or failure of the vehicle lift.

A two-post lift is a versatile, space-saving vehicle lift with 2 columns or posts which act to support the vehicle on arms upon which it can be rested and raised off the ground for garage technicians to work on. It allows for all four-wheel to be off the ground so they can be removed with ease allowing them to carry out the work required and have access all around the vehicle.

The 2 Post vehicle lift is similar to a 4-post lift but has only two columns rather than four, with the added functionality of swivelling legs that can be adjusted to fit the chassis of any size of vehicle and allow for all four wheels of the vehicle to be lifted from the ground.

Vehicle lifts are used to provide access to the underside of a vehicle in order to perform vehicle maintenance or repair. The most common type of car lift is the 2-post lift, which can be used to lift a vehicle from the ground making removing all 4 wheels an easy task. 4-post car lifts are similar to 2-post car lifts but provide greater access to the underside of a vehicle, allowing you to lift a vehicle from the ground on the fully supported platform held at 4 corners.

The benefit of a 4-post vehicle lift over a 2-post vehicle lift is the stability gained by virtue of the 4 metal posts holding the platforms in place distributing the weight over all 4 corners as opposed to just the two posts.

However, the four-post lift is much larger, as the 4 posts and platform must be large enough to support the size of the vehicle you plan to work on, whether a car, van or commercial vehicle. A 4-post car lift has four supports, which allows for extra room to work and is often better suited for larger vehicles.

A 2-post car lift has two supports or posts, and adjustable arms that can be moved to the support area of vehicles of many sizes.

Two-post vehicle lifts are the best option for businesses with a smaller workshop, home garage, or a location where multiple MOT bays, lifts or other workshop equipment is required within a limited space as they don't take up as much room as a 4-post lift.

Vehicle lifts are an excellent tool for lifting vehicles. They are designed to make working on a vehicle as easy as possible but be sure to be clear on your lifting requirements, space limitations and vehicle sizes you plan to be working on before selecting or making a 4-post lift purchase.

The recommended minimum distance between two post car lifts is at least two feet or 600mm of space between the base of your car lift posts, as well as at least this between the vehicles that may be lifted on these vehicle lifts.

This is both for practical purposes, this ensures there is ample space to move around between any vehicles that are on the lifts at the same time for working on these, but more importantly for Health & Safety reasons, 600mm is the minimum clearance that the fire brigade would need to move between vehicles on a lift with full breathing apparatus.

Generally, to install a standard full-rise 2 post car lift you need a ceiling height of at least 11 feet (or 3400mm).

The symmetrical two post car lift has arms of equal length, and the vehicle sits at the centre equidistant between the 2 arms on each side, and the weight is distributed evenly across the 2 post lifting arms.

The asymmetric 2 post car lift has one arm on each side of the lift slightly longer than the other, and this allows you to position the vehicle slightly further back on the 2 post car lift, meaning that most of the vehicle weight is taken on the rear arm on each side of the car lift, the benefit being that it makes it easier to open the doors to access the interior, without impacting the column on that side of the car.

Whilst using a 2-post car lift in a home garage in the UK is possible, the viability of this depends on several factors. First, you will need to ensure that your garage is assessed for size and compatibility, that the floor is level and the concrete is deep enough and ensure that the lift is installed in compliance with relevant UK regulations and safety standards.

Additionally, you will need to consider whether your garage has adequate ceiling height to accommodate the lift and whether the floor is strong enough to support both the weight of the lift and the vehicle being lifted.

You will also need to assess whether the cost of purchasing and installing a 2-post car lift is worth the investment for your personal use in your home garage. Getting advice from a professional garage equipment supplier or installer and a building inspector can help you determine whether a 2 post car lift is a feasible, sensible and safe option for your home garage in the UK.

Another consideration is that there is no legislative requirement or recommendation on how long a car can stay on a 2 post lift, however, we would recommend that the car only remains on the lift for the duration of any work needed to repair it, and then ideally the car should be removed from the lift to reduce or remove any strain on the lift components, especially the screws, lift nuts and safety nuts. Also, be sure that the lift is correctly maintained in accordance with the manufacturers instructions to ensure it keeps working correctly and safely for many years to come.

An additional word of warning. No vehicle should be parked under a 2 post car lift with either the arms or a vehicle raised above the height of the vehicle, this is preventative to ensure no accidental damage comes to the vehicle below.

Learn More About 2 Post Car Lifts

A scissor lift is a type of hydraulic or electric vehicle lift found in garages, MOT Bays, workshops and body shops, and is a machine made to move vehicles and equipment in a vertical direction. These lifts can handle most jobs that would normally require a two-post car lift or a 4-post vehicle lift.

Scissor lifts, which are typically self-propelled machines, get their name from the design of the beams underneath the platform which do the work to raise and lower the platform.  When viewed from the side, the mechanism appears as a stack of crossed tubes or metal rods that work in a scissor-like fashion when the platform is raised and lowered.

Vehicle Scissor lifts are usually powered by a hydraulic system and operate by raising and lowering the platform.

These kinds of vehicle lifts are a great option for those who have limited space or are unable to use a traditional vehicle 2-post or 4-post lift.

Scissor Lifts work by lifting the weight on the two sets of scissor-shaped arms and pivoting the arms toward the centre to lift the weight. The two sets of scissor arms are connected by a hinge at the centre, allowing the arms to rotate and lift the weight. This hinge makes it possible for the lift to lift both heavy and light vehicles.

There are three main types of garage scissor lifts:

• Recessed scissor lifts
• Surface-mounted scissor lifts
• Mobile Scissor lifts

A scissor lift is a popular model of aerial platform lift which is often used in garages in place of a 2-post or 4-post lift, where the space is limited, however, the scissor lift, depending on the design and weight capacity will often need to be recessed into the floor so this is an additional consideration before choosing this as your garage or MOT Bay lifting solution, some with less lifting capacity can, however, be surface mounted, and yet others can be mobile, but again the weight these types of scissor lifts can support tends to be lower than recessed scissor lifts or surface mounted scissor lifts.

A motorcycle lift is a device used to easily and safely raise a motorcycle off the ground for maintenance or storage. These motorcycle lifts are typically made of steel and powered by air or hydraulic cylinders.

Motorcycle lifts, sometimes called motorcycle lift tables or motorcycle ramps come in a variety of shapes and sizes, depending on the type, engine size and weight of the motorcycle you intend to work on.

The most common type of motorcycle lift is the scissor lift, which is a steel platform which uses a series of hydraulic cylinders to raise the motorcycle from the ground, and this type of motorcycle lift is usually found in garages that service and repair motorcycles, and within Class 1&2 motorcycle MOT Bays, which are capable of MOT testing motorcycles.

However, there are many other variations and styles of motorcycle lifts. Some are small, only designed to handle a simple small engined motorbike, this is the kind you would usually find in a home garage or a Class 1 MOT Bay.  And for Class 2 MOT Bays, for MOT testing larger motorcycles, a more robust motorcycle lift would be necessary.

At the other extreme, some larger motorbike lifts have front and side extensions making them long enough for a chopper and wide enough for an all-terrain vehicle (ATV).

There are several types of tyre changing machines 3 of the main types of tyre changer are:

• Manual Tyre Changer - small, portable and ideal for home tyre repair enthusiasts and DIY mechanics. The manual tyre changer usually has a manual bead breaker and tyre iron. This is a very cost-effective machine for occasional users.
• Mobile tyre changer - This automated tyre changer is usually used by a mobile tyre repair business. They are run from a 12-volt power source and can be mounted in the back of a mobile tyre repair van or truck.
• Semi-automatic Tyre Changer - These semi-automatic tyre changers utilise a combination of manual and automatic controls. On this kind of tyre fitting machine, the mounting head is held in place using a manual locking screw and handle. The mounting head is then pushed down on the hex bar into position by hand and locked in place with a lever
• Fully automatic Tyre Changer - this type of fully-automated tyre changer is similar to a semi-automatic tyre changer, but the setup of the mounting head is more automated and the rear column is operated using a hydraulic piston tilting the rear column backwards and upwards to clear the tyre when not in use. When mounting the tyre, the mounting head is moved into position and locked into place automatically

There are many different types of tyre changers available. Some tyre changing machines are designed for professional use while others are made for smaller applications including domestic use. It all depends on how often you need to do a tyre change and what type of vehicle you are changing the tyres for.

Types of Tyre Changing Machines

The different types of tyre changers are manual tyre changers, mobile tyre changers, there are semi-automatic tyre changing machines and then fully-automatic tyre changers.

The manual tyre changer is the simplest type of changer to use and is the most common for smaller applications and car enthusiasts but still is much better than using simple tyre levers or tyre irons to change a tyre, as the tyre changer turns a very labour-intensive process into a relatively simple one, with less potential damage to both the tyre and the wheel rim or alloys.

The tyre changing machine that is best for you depends on what type of vehicles you plan to work on, the number of tyres you intend to be changing, whether you have a commercial garage, or high-street car MOT Bay or simply tyre sales as well as what both your budget and your personal preferences are.

For home use by the car enthusiast we would recommend a manual tyre changer, as this type of machine is simple to use, takes up very little space, and can be used for various tyres, both car and motorcycle tyre fitting for example, but at a very low cost.

If you are a small independent local garage doing a few tyre changes a day then a semi-automatic tyre changing machine may be the best option for you, as it will make light work of the tyres you need to change, but still has a small footprint, is simple to use, and is very cost-effective.

Mobile tyre fitting operators would need to invest in a mobile tyre changing machine in order to do tyre fitting on the move, as these are specially adapted 12-volt machines that can be used on a variety of tyres and the machines are small and lightweight making them easy to mount in the back of a van or lorry.

Motorcycle tyre fitting equipment can come in all of the above flavours, some tyre changers are specifically made for motorcycle tyre fitting, whereas many are actually car tyre changing machines that can optionally be fitted with additional motorcycle adapters to allow them to hold the motorcycle wheel rim correctly and change the smaller and differently shaped tyre that is used on a motorcycle.

For larger garages, MOT Bays, and tyre sales places we would recommend a fully-automatic tyre changer, as this will deal with the volumes of tyres you need to change with ease, and will last for many years of continuous service.

There are also commercial tyre changing machines that can be used for larger vehicles such as buses, trucks and lorries, due to the size of the tyres and wheel rims, the standard car and van tyre changer will not be able to be used for these sizes of tyres.

Read our Blog article on What is the Best Tyre Changing Machine

You must take the following steps to change a car tyre using a tyre-changing machine:

Removing the tyre:

• Remove any weights attached to a steel wheel rim
• Remove the valve core to remove all air from the tyre
• Break the bead using the bead breaker on the tyre changer
• Lubricate the tyre wall close to the wheel rim prior to removing the tyre
• Clamp the wheel into position on the tyre changer turntable
• Position and use the Tyre Changer Demount Duck Head and Tyre Irons to remove the upper bead of the tyre, whilst rotating the turntable
• Use the Tyre Changer Demount Duck Head and Tyre Irons to remove the lower bead of the tyre, rotating the turntable

Prep work to re-mount the tyre:

• Inspect the tyre and wheel rim to ensure they are clean and free from damage before mounting the tyre onto the rim.
• Replace the valve and/or valve core as necessary, and check or replace the TPMS valve, TPMS valve core or TPMS sensor if these were damaged during tyre removal or the batteries have expired.

Mounting the tyre onto the wheel rim:

• Lubricate the tyre bead on both sides to aid the mounting of the tyre
• Check that the wheel rim is still securely clamped in place on the tyre changer turntable
• Position and use the Tyre Changer Demount Duck Head and Tyre Irons to mount the lower bead of the tyre, whilst rotating the turntable
• Use the Tyre Changer Demount Duck Head and Tyre Irons to mount the upper bead of the tyre, rotating the turntable
• Inflate the tyre using compressed air to re-seat the tyre bead
• Use a valve core tool to screw a new valve core into the valve on the wheel rim
• Fully inflate the tyre to the recommended tyre pressure

There are 2 main types of automated tyre machines for changing car tyres.

• Semi-automatic Tyre Changer
• Fully automatic Tyre Changer

The process for changing tyres on each of these machines is similar but does differ slightly, read our full article on How to Change a Car Tyre using a Tyre Changing Machine for more information and safety guidance.

Read our Blog article on How to Change a Car Tyre using a Tyre Changing Machine

Often following changing of a tyre on the wheel rim, a wheel balancer is a device used to balance the wheels of a vehicle or other wheeled vehicle so that it stays in place and does not move around on the ground whilst driving. The wheel balancer is used to identify weight differences between the different areas of the spinning wheel and helps to identify where wheel weights can be added or removed to balance the wheel more evenly.

Correctly balanced wheels will help to stop the wheels of a vehicle from spinning unevenly, preventing wheel hop on the tarmac, it will keep the steering wheel within the car from rocking and can help to prevent uneven wear on the vehicle tyres.

Wheel balancing machines are used to keep wheels in good condition, so your car, motorcycle, or truck can keep moving no matter where you take it. This can help extend the life of your wheels, which can help you save money on repairs.

A wheel balancer can be used to balance the wheels of cars, motorcycles and large commercial vehicles and even heavy-duty wheels on machinery. The balanced wheels help improve the stability and manoeuvrability of the vehicle.

A tyre balancing machine, which is commonly known as a wheel balancer or wheel balancing machine, is a specialised machine used in the automotive industry to ensure that the wheels and tyres of a car or other vehicle are properly balanced.

Balancing wheels and tyres play a crucial role in maintaining optimal performance and safety on the roads. When a wheel or tyre is not balanced correctly, it can result in uneven tyre wear, vibrations, and potentially unsafe driving conditions.

A tyre balancing machine utilises advanced technology to detect even the slightest imbalances in a wheel's weight distribution. It achieves balance by attaching the wheel to the machine and spinning it at high speed. The machine then measures the wheel's imbalance and determines the precise counterweight needed to bring it back into balance. This process helps to eliminate vibrations and ensure a smooth and stable ride, enhancing both tyre longevity and overall vehicle performance.

Tyre balancing machines (or wheel balancers) are commonly found in garages, tyre service centres, MOT Bays, and automotive workshops throughout the UK, providing an essential service to maintain the safety and efficiency of vehicles on British roads.

Yes! We have years of experience in the garage equipment industry and we know that every garage, workshop or body shop needs, at the very least a basic tyre changer and wheel balancer to be able to change car tyres and balance the wheels following a tyre change.

At Concept Garage Equipment you can view and buy the wheel balancer of your choice online, and we are also available on the phone to offer advice and recommendations to garage owners to help them make the right choice of garage equipment, ensure they have the correct wheel balancer based on both their customer's needs, as well as the volume of tyre being balanced so that we can provide you maximise the profit within your garage business, have excellent quality reliable wheel balancing machines on hand to get the job done with minimal effort and maximum speed.

View our Tyre Balancing Machines range online or call us on 0113 469 0572.

The three main factors to consider when choosing a wheel balancer machine are price, quality and maintenance. The quality of a wheel balancer depends on the quality of the parts, the design of the assembly, and how easy the balancer is to operate.

• Static Wheel Balancers - these are simple devices for balancing the wheels of a vehicle. After using your tyre changing machine to change the tyre, the wheel with the tyre fitted is placed onto a spindle that is balanced on a suitable vertical supporting device. The spindle is then manually rotated and allowed to come to a standstill, which will do so with the heavier side towards the ground, suggesting that the wheel can be balanced by adding weight to the lighter upper side of the wheel. This type of balancing technique is repeated a number of times, gradually adding small weights to the upper side of the wheel until the wheel spins freely without settling on any one side.
• Dynamic Wheel Balancers - are a more automatic device for balancing the wheels of a vehicle. The wheel and tyre assembly is placed on the wheel balancing machine and it is rotated automatically with several sensors detecting the motion of the wheel. As it spins, the sensors of the machine capture the weight imperfections and indicate where the weights need to be applied, and will tell the user what the weight imbalance is, and therefore what wheel weight to add. This is a much more accurate way to balance a wheel and much faster to use for any busy tyre shop, garage or MOT Bay.

To change a car tyre, you will need a few essential pieces of equipment. Firstly, a vehicle lift, ramp or jack is required to lift the vehicle off the ground, allowing you to remove the wheel. A wrench or a socket wrench with the correct size socket is necessary to loosen and remove the wheel nuts that secure the wheel to the vehicle. Additionally, a new or replacement tyre or the correct size and type should be readily available to replace the worn, punctured or damaged one.

To make the process smoother and more efficient, a tyre machine and balancer can be highly beneficial to both speed up the process and make it an effortless task. A tyre machine assists in removing the tyre from the rim and helping to mount the new one, making the task easier and faster. A tyre balancer, on the other hand, ensures that the wheel is balanced with a newly mounted tyre in place to prevent vibrations and ensure a smooth ride. These tyre machine packages are commonly found in MOT Bays, automotive workshops and tyre service centres, enabling professionals to perform tyre changes with precision, speed and accuracy.

Learn How to Change a Car Tyre using a Tyre Changer Learn How to use a Wheel Balancing Machine

In order for an electric vehicle (EV) to charge, a direct current (DC) needs to be supplied to the battery pack. However, as electricity distribution systems supply alternate current (AC) power, a converter is required to change the AC power into DC power to charge the battery. Conductive charging can be AC or DC.

Trickle Charge, AC Charge and DC Charge. The slowest method is Trickle Charge, which uses a standard (three-prong) 220V plug.

Our EV charger installation is a simple safe process, that is fully certified by our Approved Electricians.

We also know your home or business premises may not always be as simple as a standard EV Charger installation, that’s why we offer a free online consultation to discuss any questions you may have.

Give us a no-obligation call today on 0113 469 0572 or head to our contact us page and we will make sure one of our EV Charger experts calls you back to discuss your needs and options.

Standard Installations

What’s Included –

• Installation of your EV charger to a suitable permanent structure
• Up to 10 meters of 6mm cable clipped direct between your distribution board and EV charger
• A cable run through a single wall up to 500mm in thickness
• Commission, test, and certification upon completion

What your home needs –

• Wi-Fi must be available at the charger location (if appropriate depending on which EV charger you choose)
• Appropriate earthing arrangements on site to comply with BS7671 electrical regulations

Additional costs if required –

• Cable over and above 10 meters at £10 per meter including VAT and installation
• If your consumer unit does not meet the required 18^th edition standards, we can install a one-way distribution board for £75.00
• If you require a completely new consumer unit our lead electrician will provide a full quotation before you agree on any work to begin. Not sure if your consumer unit meets the required standard*? Then book a free consultation and we can advise you and let you know your options.

* Visit the Gov.uk site for full details of Regulations for electric vehicle smart charge points.

If you are unsure if your home or business location will be a standard EV Charger install? Visit our contact us page and leave your details or call us today on 0113 469 0572. Be sure to mention that you would like to discuss your EV charging options and we will ensure one of our EV charging experts calls you back.

Home chargers are the preferred method of charging an electric car because they charge the car faster and have safety features built-in. A standard 3-pin plug with an EVSE cable can be used as a last resort.

Tyre Pressure Monitoring System or TPMS is a valuable safety feature and has been required on all passenger cars in the United Kingdom since November 2014, and fitted to all vehicles in the United States since 2008.

A Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) is an electronic system that monitors tyre air pressure and alerts the driver or vehicle user when the pressure is incorrect in the vehicle tyres.  Parts of the TPMS system are usually integrated into the car’s electronic control system.

The main purpose of a TPMS is to warn the driver when tyre pressure is too low, usually, this indicates that the pressure dropped below a minimum tolerance level or by a % deviation from the manufacturer's recommended pressure.  Maintaining the correct tyre pressure helps to prevent uneven tyre wear, and potential tyre blowouts but also helps to improve fuel efficiency and both ride and steering comfort.

A Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) typically uses sensors mounted on each wheel that send data to a central controller.

The TPMS sensor usually forms part of the tyre valve (that is used to inflate the tyre), and the end of the valve that is within the wheel itself tends to have the TPMS monitor, including the embedded battery within.

When the TPMS sensor is initially added or replaced within the wheel, it needs to be taught (often referred to as the relearn procedure) to know which vehicle it has been added to, to enable it to talk correctly to the vehicle TPMS controller system and to identify the pressure of the tyres correctly to which it has been fitted.

The TPMS controller, which is usually part of the vehicle computer then uses the data that is sent from the TPMS valve to determine whether the tyres are properly inflated or not.

If the tyre pressure falls outside of the recommended tolerance, as set by the manufacturer, then the driver or vehicle user will be alerted, usually by a warning light on the dashboard and potentially an audible alarm within the vehicle also.  The warning light will usually stay lit when the ignition is on, until the tyre inflation has been corrected, and often the vehicle has to be driven for a short while for the re-learn procedure to detect the pressure has been adjusted also.

Please note: all information on this website, FAQ and product data that we sell relates only to Direct TPMS Systems.

The TPMS sensors are usually embedded within the wheels and take the form of the inside or embedded end of the valve that is used to inflate the tyre.

The end of the valve that is within the wheel itself has the TPMS monitor, including the embedded battery within.

Please note: all information on this website, FAQ and product data that we sell relates only to Direct TPMS Systems.

A sensor valve can last between 5 and 10 years or up to 100,000 miles and is generally determined by the life expectancy of the lithium-ion batteries inside the TPMS Valve itself, although this can vary depending on vehicle use, tyre damage or replacement, since the valve can be damaged whilst tyres are being changed.

Please note: all information on this website, FAQ and product data that we sell relates only to Direct TPMS Systems.

A jacking beam is an essential piece of equipment for any garage that contains a 4 Post Lift or Scissor Lift.

The jacking beam is a long horizontal hydraulic Jack that is wide enough to span the platforms of a 4 Post Lift or Scissor Lift, that is placed underneath the car, and it can further raise the vehicle while it is already raised up on the 4 Post Lift or Scissor Lift.

Jacking beams are usually roller mounted to run smoothly and safely along the platforms of the 4 Post Lift or Scissor Lift and are positioned low under the vehicle before being adjusted or raised.

The jacking beam is both a safety device, as well as a critical time saver for garages using 4 Post Lifts or Scissor Lifts, as it enables work to be done on cars whilst on the 4 Post Lift or Scissor Lift that would otherwise need the lift to be lowered and the car removed, and either raised separately from the floor, or on to a 1 or 2 Post Lift.

Jacking beams are usually roller mounted, and they can be placed on top at the end of the 4 Post Lift or Scissor Lift spanning the 2 platforms and either rolled under the vehicle, or the vehicle can be driven onto the 4 Post Lift or Scissor Lift with the jacking beam already in place.

The jacking beam can be adjusted to meet the jacking points on the car or vehicle and allows the front or rear of the vehicle to be raised from the 4 Post Lift or Scissor Lift itself, the advantage of this can be used, for example, to remove wheels from a car whilst it’s on the 4 Post Lift or Scissor Lift.

You can use 2 jacking beams, one at the front of the vehicle and another at the rear in conjunction with each other to raise both the front and rear of the vehicle whilst on the 4 Post Lift or Scissor Lift, therefore the ability to remove all 4 wheels of the vehicle whilst it is still securely raised to a working height by the 4 Post Lift or Scissor Lift.

Motorcycle tyre changers are used to remove tyres from motorcycle tyres, either for repair or replacement.

They assist the tyre fitter in securely holding the motorcycle wheel, usually by way of a clamp, such that either manual or automated tools can be used to level the tyre off the rim, and subsequently do the reverse to put a new or repaired tyre back onto the wheel rim.  With automated motorcycle tyre changers, they will also rotate the tyre during the removal and re-application process of the tyre.

The main types of motorcycle tyre changers are:

• Manual (using tyre irons)
• Floor-standing Mini tyre changer
• Semi-automatic Tyre Changer
• Fully automatic Tyre Changer

There are many different types of motorcycle tyre changers on the market today. While some are designed for easy use, others are more specialised. It is important to choose the right one for your needs.

Here are a few things to consider when choosing a motorcycle tyre changer:

• Where do you intend to use the motorcycle tyre changer
• The type of motorcycle you plan to work on
• The size of the wheel rims, and of the tyres you will be removing or replacing
• The engine size and therefore weight of the motorcycles you will be changing the tyres of

Motorcycle tyres can be changed manually using tyre irons, and a lot of elbow grease, but due to the construction of the tyres they can be quite hard, and also usually locked very tightly on the motorcycle wheel rims, since these tend to be high-speed vehicles that depend on both wheels staying put, they tend to be tighter and therefore harder to break the bead and remove than car tyres, so removing them manually without a machine or suitable leverage is not a good idea, though certainly the cheapest option.

Next, is a mini, or manual tyre changer, which is a static floor-standing metal device bolted to the ground, often with a built-in manual bead breaker but one which offers some leverage and a correctly shaped shoe or shovel, as well as an upright bar and clamps upon which the wheel can be mounted and held in place whilst you use manual tools or tyre irons to remove and replace the tyres.  This is an ideal device for a home garage small garage or occasional user, as it doesn't take up much space

For a garage or MOT Bay, the best motorcycle tyre changers are those that have the capability to do a quick and easy job, while being able to handle various wheel and tyre sizes, without damage to the wheel rim or tyre rubber.  For this reason, we would recommend one of the below types of motorcycle tyre changers for garages or professionals intending to change more than one or two motorcycle tyres per month.

Semi-automatic Motorcycle Tyre Changer - These semi-automatic tyre changers utilise a combination of manual and automatic controls. On this kind of motorcycle tyre fitting machine, the mounting head is held in place using a manual locking screw and handle. The mounting head is then pushed down on the hex bar into position by hand and locked in place with a lever.  These are larger machines, so need a dedicated area in which to operate.

Fully automatic MotorcycleTyre Changer - this type of fully-automated tyre changer is similar to a semi-automatic tyre changer, but the setup of the mounting head is more automated and the rear column is operated using a hydraulic piston tilting the rear column backwards and upwards to clear the tyre when not in use. When mounting the tyre, the mounting head is moved into position and locked into place automatically. These are the largest types of motorcycle tyre-changing machines, so need a larger area designated in which to operate.

Motorbike tyre changers are a valuable tool for motorcycle owners, garages and MOT Bays. There are many different types of bike tyre changers on the market, so it can be hard to find the best one for your needs.  Whichever one you choose, make sure you get the right size and make sure the motorcycle tyre changer is in good working order before you use it.

A motorcycle wheel balancer is a machine used to spin a motorcycle wheel to assess the weight of the wheel of the motorcycle with the tyre installed to check for uneven weight distribution across the wheel's circumference.

The tyre fitter or user would use the machine to identify the lightest point on the tyre's rotation and apply small metal weights to the tyre's rim to neutralise the weight differences and cause an even weight across the whole wheel circumference.

Yes, you can use a car wheel balancer to balance a motorcycle wheel, though due to the difference in both the size of the wheel rim, as well as the tyre size and shape difference, this will usually need a motorcycle adapter to ensure that the motorcycle tyre fits correctly and centrally on the car tyre changer, therefore converting this into a motorcycle tyre changer.

Also, you must ensure that the wheel balancer that you intend to use for motorcycle wheel balancing has the correct software to balance this size and type of tyre, so check with your garage equipment supplier before making a purchase on this basis.

1-phase power is the standard 240v electrical supply found in most households and smaller commercial facilities. It’s a single alternating current, making it suitable for lighter-duty applications, and smaller or less frequently used garage equipment.

3-phase power consists of three alternating currents at 415v, providing a more stable and powerful source of electricity.

For heavy-duty lifting operations and frequent use, a 3-phase power source is often preferred due to its increased reliability and efficiency. However, the availability of 3-phase power may vary depending on your location and facility, so it’s essential to ensure that your chosen garage equipment matches the power source you have access to.

Decelerometers are handheld electronic devices that can be taken in a vehicle during a test drive and brake test, and they will test the braking efficiency by calculating the rate of deceleration. This should be used where a plate brake tester or roller brake tester is unavailable or unsuitable.

Vehicle air conditioning machines are used to test and refill the refrigerant gas in vehicles, including cars, vans and heavy goods vehicles.

Air conditioner regassing is the process of extracting the old used refrigerant gas from the vehicle air conditioning system and replacing it with new A/C refrigerant such as r134a or r1234yf.

Yes. 1 Phase or 3 Phase electrics must be in place prior to installation, our engineers will then connect to this to test following installation and then disconnect pending a visit from a qualified electrician to complete the final fix and certify the electrical connection.

To get my Network Keys for installation, you need to complete the following instructions:

• Log onto MTS system
• Right hand side click on the VTS number
• Right hand side menu – click request keys
• You need to request Decelerometer, Roller Brake Tester and Combined Emissions
• Click Home at the top of page
• Right hand side click on the VTS number
• View keys – click on "Email me my key" for each separate one
• Click yes to "Is your engineer on site"

These will be sent to you in a zip file via email, please save these and have them ready for the engineer to use during equipment installation.