The present invention concerns methods and apparatus for spreading beads in a tire. Particular embodiments of such methods include positioning a tire adjacent an automated material abrading tool, the tire having: a central opening bounded radially by an inner bead diameter; an interior tire cavity extending radially outward from the inner bead diameter; and an interior tire cavity opening extending between opposing an annular beads of the tire, the cavity being positioned between the central cavity and the interior tire cavity. Such methods may also include securing at least a portion of the 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 the second bead generally opposite the secured portion of the first bead.