This element focuses on developing the practical skills and knowledge required to safely inspect, repair, and replace tyres, wheels, and tubes on industria
Topic Synopsis
This element focuses on developing the practical skills and knowledge required to safely inspect, repair, and replace tyres, wheels, and tubes on industrial equipment such as forklifts, agricultural machinery, and construction plant. Learners will master safe jacking and support procedures, tyre demounting and mounting techniques using specialised tools, and the identification of common tyre defects and wear patterns. Emphasis is also placed on accurate record-keeping and providing professional recommendations to customers or line managers.
Key Concepts & Core Principles
- Tyre construction: Understanding the layers of a tyre, including tread, sidewall, belts, and beads, and how each contributes to performance and safety.
- Tyre fitting procedures: Correct methods for mounting and demounting tyres, including using tyre changers, balancing machines, and torque wrenches to ensure proper fitment.
- Tyre pressure monitoring: The importance of maintaining correct tyre pressure for vehicle handling, fuel economy, and tyre wear, and how to use pressure gauges accurately.
- Health and safety regulations: Compliance with COSHH (Control of Substances Hazardous to Health) and LOLER (Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations) when handling tyres and equipment.
- Customer service skills: Communicating effectively with customers about tyre choices, maintenance schedules, and safety checks to build trust and ensure repeat business.
Exam Tips & Revision Strategies
- Always verbalise your risk assessment before starting any practical task to demonstrate safety awareness.
- Refer to the vehicle or equipment manual to confirm correct jacking points and torque specifications.
- Photograph damage and retain written records as evidence for a portfolio of competence.
- In written responses, structure answers using P.E.A. (Point, Evidence, Application) to show depth of understanding.
- Practice timed inspections to build speed and accuracy under assessment conditions.
Common Misconceptions & Mistakes to Avoid
- Attempting to remove a tyre without fully deflating it first, risking explosive decompression.
- Using incorrect tools or excessive force, leading to rim or bead damage.
- Overlooking wheel stud condition and forgetting to apply appropriate lubrication where required.
- Failing to check the valve core and valve cap for leaks after repair.
- Not inspecting the inside of the tyre for hidden damage or debris before fitting a new tube.
- Providing vague recommendations (e.g., 'tyre needs replacing soon') instead of specifying 'replace due to sidewall bulge exceeding 5mm'.
Examiner Marking Points
- Correct selection and use of PPE (steel-toe boots, gloves, eye protection) throughout the task.
- Adherence to safe jacking and supporting procedures using appropriate stands and chocks.
- Proper deflation of tyre before any removal attempt to prevent explosive release.
- Correct use of tyre levers and bead breaker to avoid damage to rim or tyre bead.
- Systematic inspection covering tread depth, sidewall cracks, bead area, and wheel corrosion.
- Accurate pressure setting after repair/replacement, verified with a calibrated gauge.
- Torque wrench used to tighten wheel nuts to manufacturer’s specified settings in correct sequence.
- Clear documentation of work carried out, including any recommendations with specific reasons.