Getting the Most from a Dealer
by Jack
(Villarrica, Chile)
There's not much I can say to compare with real adventurers, but I can offer some suggestions as to how to get the most out of your tire dealer.
I believe you'd prefer to keep your adventures to the time when you get off the beaten trail and not starting when you buy your tires.
Choose your dealer carefully. Find one who specializes in off-road equipment. Look for staff who are avid off-roaders.
Use your dealer's knowledge and experience. Tell him what you want to do the results you want. Think about what you like to do and where you'll go. The kind of tire you're going to get best service from when you're planning to climb the side of a snow-covered volcano in Iceland is far different from what you'd need if you're traveling through the scorching desert in Baja California or slogging through some bog in a tropical jungle.
Plan out the terrain, weather, time, speed, distance and other conditions you'll experience. Discuss your traveling habits -- do you usually travel alone or do you travel in a group? Are you prepared to change tires in mid-journey or do you expect to make it from start to finish with the same wheels?
All of these things influence what would be the best tire for you. Ask for names of people who have tried the tires recommended and get in touch with them. Compare notes. See if their experiences match up with what you plan to do, if their vehicle, driving skills and other characteristics are similar or different from your own.
What will you do if you need to replace only one or two tires? If you stick with major brands with wide distribution you might find it easier to make a quick replacement, but if you choose a specialty tire, you may want to consider purchasing an extra spare.
Finally, if you want to get the very best service from any dealer, don't try to squeeze the last nickel out of the guy. If you want to increase your value, try asking for some additional services without cost -or at a discount- rather than getting the lowest price for the tires.
And when you're done with your installation and services, consider a nice tip for the guys who did the work ... they'll be falling all over themselves to help you then next time you visit.
I hope this brief discussion has raised some useful points for you, as an off-roader. If you'd like to see more of the information which I have available about tires in general, please visit www.tire-information-world.com .
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