TIRE STORAGE

All tires should be stored in a cool dry place indoors so there is no danger of water collecting inside them. Serious problems occur with tube type tires when they are mounted with water trapped between the tire and the tube.

Due to pressurization, the liquid can pass through the innerliner and into the casting piles. (This can result in sudden tire failure.) Most of the problems of this nature, encountered with tube type tires, have been due to improper storage, which permitted water to enter the casing between the tire and tube prior to mounting.

Tires should be stored in a cool place away from sources of heat and ozone such as hot pipes and electric generators. Be sure that surfaces on which tires are stored are clean and free from grease, gasoline or other substances, which could deteriorate the rubber. (Tires exposed to these materials during storage or driving could be subject to sudden failure.)

TIRE REPAIR

External, or outside-in, repair methods using sealants, string, rubber bands or rivet type plugs are not recommended. The tire must be demounted for inspection of possible internal damage.

CHAINS

Certain procedures must be followed when utilizing chains in order to optimize performance and minimize tire wear/damage.

1. Chains should be utilized only when necessary. The probability of damage to the tire and/or the chains increases as the driving speed and distance traveled increases. Use on dry pavement is especially conducive to wear since the lubricating feature of the water (snow) is not present.

2. Chains manufacturers give size recommendations for radial ply tires, which must be adhered to for optimum utility and performance. Size recommendations are usually given for the highway tread design tire. If the chain is to be used on a snow tire, it may be necessary to use the next larger chain size to allow for the necessary amount of chain movement relative to the tire. Check for proper clearances between chains and vehicle. Consult the individual chain manufactures for specific recommendations because sizing and fitment may vary with the chain type.

3. Normally, the proper fit for any type of chain is achieved by hand tightening it and locking it in place. After one or two miles of driving, the chain should be retightened by hand. This will take up any slack, which may have formed due to the unraveling of components tangled in storage.

WARNING: Improper chain type or size may damage the sidewall of a tire, causing failure.