The Snap-On balancing machine is computerized and will set the balance weights to align with the rim.

NORTH ADAMS, Mass. — A local auto repair shop is hoping to ease the need caused by the recent closure of Mr. Tire.

T&M Auto on Curran Highway is now offering tire service along with repairs, maintenance, body work and sales.

Glenn Maloney, general manager, said the company had to make a quick decision when it was learned the longtime tire service center was closing.

"We wanted to make sure we could service a real need for our customers and others," he said.
 
Working with its local Snap-On representative, T&M invested about $16,000 in tire changing and balancing equipment. The two pieces of equipment are computer operated and designed to handle most standard and light truck tires.

Maloney said the garage has set up with dealers to access all the major tire brands and can usually get them within a day. T&M is not trying to replace Mr. Tire, he said, but rather ensure that a need is being met.

It would be difficult to replace Mr. Tire, a drive-through, same-day service that engendered such loyalty that customers were willing to wait in long serpentine lines for their winter tires.

Mr. Tire, down the road from T&M, closed on June 4, when owner Larry Davis decided it was time to retire. There has strong interest in the property and Nokian Tires has been contacting local garages indicating it may be buying the tire center.

North Adams Tire & Service Center (Goodyear) on River Street was closed last year and demolished when the property was sold by owner Pittsfield Tire. That leaves few places in North Berkshire for motorists to buy tires or have them changed.

Maloney said there's been a definite uptick in tire-related services, especially for minor repairs: It did 20 tires in two days. Some personnel have been trained on the use of the new equipment and T&M has advertised for another autobody/tire technician.

"We want to make sure we can cater to what people need," he said.