I think it is reasonable to assume that the tires did not get worn out without something getting done. 

A company which is using a machine to accomplish a task is likely to be doing what it takes to keep the job on track.  You saw what Rafe had to say....he is responsible for a company which has work to get done.  

If I was gone and a machine got used up in the accomplishment of our goals, so be it.  At any rate, there would be little sense in someone who had been gone for several years 'doing the majority of the talking.'