Issue link: http://read.dmtmag.com/i/34501
STORAGE All tires should be stored in a cool dry place indoors so that there is no danger of water collecting inside them. Serious problems can occur with tube-type tires when they are mounted with water trapped between the tire and tube. Under pressurization, the liquid can pass through the inner liner and into the casing plies. This can result in casing deterioration and sudden tire failure. Most failures of this nature are due to improper storage. This is a particular problem with tube-type tires because of the difficulty in detecting the water, which has collected between the tire and tube. When tires are stored, they should be stored in a cool place away from sources of heat and ozone, such as hot pipes and electric motors. Be sure that surfaces on which tires are stored are clean and free from grease, gasoline, or other substances that could deteriorate the rubber. Tires exposed to or driven on these substances could be subject to sudden failure. FLOOD DAMAGE Tires that have been subjected and exposed to water from hurricanes, storms, floods, etc. for a substantial amount of time need to be discarded and not placed in service on consumer’s vehicles. This applies to both new tires (unmounted) in inventory as well as those already mounted and installed on vehicles. Prolonged exposure to moisture can have a degenerative chemical effect on rubber and lead to potential failure later in the tire’s life. If any questions arise, call Consumer Care at 1-888-622-2306. CHAINS* In order to satisfy legal requirements in many states, you may be required to use chains on truck tires. When the use of chains is required, the following recommendations should be followed: 1. Chains should only be utilized when necessary. The possibility of damage to the tire from the chains will increase as driving speed and length of travel increase, as well as with use on dry pavement. As a general rule, chains should be utilized only as long as required, and vehicle speeds should be kept relatively low. 2. Since manufacturers have size recommendations for radial ply tires, no matter what type of chain they manufacture, these size recommendations must be adhered to for optimized utility and performance. 3. Always be sure to check for proper clearances between chain and vehicle at the lower 6:00 o’clock position where the tires deflect due to load. When using tire chains, a minimum of two inches of space clearance between the dual assembly and the vehicle is necessary. 4. Also follow closely the mounting instructions and procedures of the chain manufacturer. 5. Specific chains are available for the MICHELIN X One tire product line. ® ® * The information provided is for reference only. Chains-specific questions should be directed to the chains manufacturer. Section Three: Extending Tire Life 43