Issue link: http://read.dmtmag.com/i/34501
DIRECTIONAL TIRES Truck tires featuring directional tread designs have arrows molded into the shoulder/edge of the outer ribs to indicate the intended direction of tire rotation. It is important, to maximize tire performance, that directional tires be mounted correctly on wheels to ensure that the directionality is respected when mounted on the vehicle. For example, when mounting directional drive tires on a set of 8 wheels, use the drop centers as a reference. Four tires should be mounted with the arrows pointing to the left of the technician and four tires with the arrows pointing to the right. This ensures that when the assemblies are fitted onto the vehicle that all tires can be pointed in the desired direction of rotation. Directional steer tires should be mounted in a similar fashion, one each direction, to ensure both are pointed forward. Once directional tires are worn greater than 50%, there is generally no negative effect of running them in a direction opposite to the indicated direction of rotation. Operating directional tires from new to 50% worn in the opposite direction of that indicated on the tire will result in the premature onset of irregular wear, excessive noise levels, and significantly reduced tread life. MICHELIN XDY-2 Drive Tire ® ™ MICHELIN XZA3 Steer Tire ® ® 20 Section Two: Mounting the Tire