[PHOTOSTORY 4: STRUGGLE]: Working through pain

 By: Tyra Redmond

Jerry Sanders, 62, works at EJ Tires. Posed with arms crossed, holding onto an impact wrench.

Sanders directs a customer into the working area. This ensures the vehicle is appropriately balanced and easily lifted off the ground.

Sanders has a  bone fracture in his right knee, which causes him to limp while walking. For support, a knee brace is worn on that leg.  

 

Even with pain in his right knee, Sanders loves to move around. "I've been working on cars since I was 14, and I don't want to stop anytime soon," said Sanders. 

Sanders started working at EJ Tires four years ago. "I built my first engine for a 1969 Camaro in high school, so this is light work for me," said Sanders. 

Sanders balancing tires for a customer. "The thing is you've got to take your time with the work you do, and most people don't understand that," said Sanders.

Sanders works to loosen the tight lug nuts. This particular car required a lug wrench jack handle.

After constantly working at it, Sanders successfully removed the tire. "You see, it takes time," he said.

Out with the old, in with the new. Owner, EJ, who has been in business for 23 years, rolls out a tire for the customer. 

 

In the meantime, another car pulls in. The service asked is a tire check-up.

The tire pressure gauge presses against the open valve stem. It's essential for pressure to be checked regularly to prevent blowouts.