The present invention concerns methods and apparatus for spreading beads in a tire. Particular embodiments of such methods include securing at least a portion of a first bead of the tire and positioning a tire spreader within the central opening of the tire, the tire spreader having a bead engaging portion for engaging a portion of a second bead generally opposite the secured portion of the first bead. Such methods may further include automatically translating the bead engaging portion of the tire spreader generally in an axial direction of the tire to displace the engaged portion of the second bead a desired distance to increase the distance between the opposing beads to form a widened interior cavity opening.